The International Association of Fire Chiefs is urging all members of the fire service to take a short survey created by the Firefighter Safety Through Advanced Research (FSTAR) Health to gather information on the medical monitoring and care of firefighters. The survey is open until June 30, 2016.”
Research indicates that firefighters are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, musculoskeletal injuries, behavioral health issues, lung disease, sleep disorders and infectious diseases. Clinical monitoring through comprehensive annual physicals including frequent screenings have the best chance of catching any of these occupational related diseases early. FSTAR Health promotes annual physicals that consider the unique health risks of firefighters, as described by NFPA 1582, Standard on Comprehensive Medical Programs for Fire Departments.
This survey is a first step in understanding and evaluating the issues associated with firefighter physicals. The survey, which should only take 10 minutes to complete, is available to all members of the fire service.