Affiliations: Department of Environmental Health, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
Note: [] Corresponding author: Barbara Alexander, National Institute for
Occupational Safety and Health, Centers for Disease Control, U.S.
Department of Health and Human Services, 5555 Ridge Avenue,
Cincinnati, OH 45213, USA. Tel.: +1 513 841 4581; Fax: +1 513
841 4506; E-mail: BAlexander@cdc.gov
Abstract: BACKGROUND: In the United States, over 50% of the deaths of
on-duty firefighters are classified as sudden cardiac deaths. A holistic view
of the multiple risk factors and their relation to the prevalence of
cardiovascular disease (CVD) is necessary to determine a baseline for
prevention. METHODS: This study surveyed 154 firefighters in a large
Midwestern county about their individual exposure to particulates, noise, heat
stress, skin contamination, and physical stress; lifestyle factors such as
exercise, diet, smoking, and alcohol consumption; health status; and
demographic factors. RESULTS: Consumption of whole grains and alcohol
were associated with a reduction of the risk of heart disease, while higher
Body Mass Index (BMI) scores and increasing age were associated with increased
risk of heart disease. CONCLUSIONS: Although firefighters are exposed
to substantial occupational risks, only lifestyle factors were found to
significantly predict CVD and related health issues. BMI is a modifiable risk
factor, which, if controlled, could appreciably improve health outcomes.
Keywords: Cardiovascular disease, firefighters, exposure, body mass index, high cholesterol
