In a recent update from Arizona's academic sphere, firefighters are at the heart of a $4 million research initiative to reduce their risk of cancer and cardiovascular diseases. The research collaboration involving Arizona State University and the University of Arizona is a response to the tragic loss of Tempe Fire captain, Scott Leatham, who succumbed to a rare form of cancer linked to his job. The Arizona Board of Regents funds the rigorous study and joins forces with over 20 fire departments statewide, tapping into the first-hand experiences of 1,000 Arizona firefighters, plus an additional 1,000 from various states, as reported by ABC15.
These researchers are set to deeply analyze the effects of various interventions that might mitigate the levels of harmful PFAS—per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances—in firefighters. This collaborative work with the Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research at the University of Arizona, supplies hands-on strategies including blood and plasma donations, exercise, and intermittent fasting, based on earlier research from Australia indicating these activities could lower PFAS levels in blood if blood is donated every 12 weeks and plasma every six weeks, according to ABC15.
The Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research partners with firefighters and fire departments to investigate the occupational health risks they encounter. Our research collects data to guide decisions, practices, and policies aimed at enhancing the safety and well-being of firefighters, as per the University of Arizona.
"Firefighters truly do put their lives on the line for us, so they're out there protecting those of us in the general population," Burgess told ABC15 in an interview. He believes that it's essential for the community to help firefighters protect themselves actively. The comprehensive research project is expected to continue throughout this year and into the next, with a conclusive report slated for release sometime in 2026.
