THMG Presents: Hazard Class

Episode 0007

Fire Exposure Toxicology

Featuring: Dr. Jeff Burgess

Podcast Summary

In this episode of the Hazard Class Podcast, host Jake engages in a fascinating discussion with Dr. Jeff Burgess, an emergency physician, medical toxicologist, and professor at the University of Arizona. Dr. Burgess leads groundbreaking research on reducing toxic exposures and cancer risks for firefighters. They delve into the challenges firefighters face, from job-related cancer risks to actionable prevention strategies. This is an essential listen for anyone in the emergency services or those invested in occupational health.

Video Exclusively on YouTube

jburgess@arizona.edu

Firefighter Cancer Cohort Study

www.ffccs.org

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Episode Highlights and Timestamps

Introduction and Guest Overview (0:00 – 0:50)

- Jake introduces Dr. Jeff Burgess and highlights his extensive resume.

- Dr. Burgess's focus on firefighter health and cancer research.

The Wheel of Stupid Questions (0:51 – 4:13)

- Jake’s humorous question: "Sock-sock-shoe-shoe or sock-shoe-sock-shoe?"

- Light-hearted insights into Dr. Burgess's daily routine.

- Transition to Dr. Burgess's career path and medical journey.

Dr. Burgess's Career Journey (4:14 – 7:30)

- Transition from emergency medicine to medical toxicology and research.

- Initial inspiration: occupational exposures in miners.

- Early interactions with firefighters during medical toxicology training.

Cancer Risks for Firefighters (7:31 – 14:29)

- Increased cancer risks for firefighters compared to the general population.

- Comparisons between firefighting exposures and other carcinogens like smoking.

- Personal health, DNA predisposition, and environmental factors in cancer risk.

Firefighting Exposure and Protective Measures (14:30 – 23:51)

- Key toxic exposures: soot, smoke, PFAS chemicals, and shift work stress.

- Importance of reducing exposure with measures like SCBA use and gear cleaning.

- Study results: 40% exposure reduction for engineers on SCBA; 33% reduction with on-scene gear washing.

Focus Areas in Current Research (23:52 – 32:08)

- Firefighter Cancer Cohort Study (FFCCS) initiatives: PFAS levels, reproductive health, mental health.

- Specific studies on interventions, such as saunas and nutraceuticals.

- Insights into latency periods and the long-term impact of cancer prevention strategies.

Practical Advice for Firefighters (32:09 – 35:05)

- Importance of "shower within the hour" after fires.

- Keeping turnout gear away from living quarters to minimize exposure.

- How firefighters can directly support and engage in research efforts.

Key Takeaways

- Firefighters face unique occupational health risks, including higher cancer rates and adverse reproductive health effects.

- Simple measures like SCBA use, on-scene washing, and immediate showers can significantly reduce toxic exposures.

- Long-term research, like the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer, aims to provide deeper insights into these risks.