Firefighters Against Cancer is a national initiative of Fundacion Bomberos de Argentina, within the framework of prevention that addresses the different types of cancer that can affect more than 44,000 men and women in carrying out their work as firefighters in the country. Epidemiological studies suggest the increased risk of mortality in firefighters due to leukemia, brain tumors, multiple myeloma, Hodgkin Lymphoma, colorectal cancer, prostate cancer, lung cancer, mesothelioma, among others.
During their lifetime, firefighters are 30% more exposed than others to potentially carcinogenic gases. Risk exposures can derive from the inhalation of smoke, carbon monoxide, nitrogen oxides, sulfuric acid, acroleins and other substances. Firefighters can also be exposed to spills of chemical products, landslides, or natural disasters. Many of these cause chronic health problems, such as respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, as well as cancer.
This campaign focuses on spreading awareness on the importance of the correct use of personal protection elements and provide continuous training to improve firefighters work and promote their well-being and optimal health. Knowing the risks of their profession is crucial for them to prevent any diseases in the future.
Raising awareness is key to reducing firefighter exposure to these dangers by ensuring they pay close attention to suit decay and quality equipment designed to protect their bodies from any potential damage. The most common damage that derives from the inhalation of irritants during their work is the affectation of the respiratory function. By providing previous quality training, future affections can be reduced, preventing firefighters from getting such a heartbreaking disease.
