It is no secret that firefighting is a dangerous job or that fighting fires can have a negative impact on health. It is well known that firefighting is related to higher rates of several types of cancer, which is clearly linked to exposures on the fireground to the byproducts of combustion.
These byproducts, combined with the physical exertion of firefighting, also are clear triggers linked to the risk of cardiovascular events.
However, dangers of the job extend beyond the carcinogens and physical exertion required to respond to fire and rescue calls. Several factors related to being in the fire service actually lead to increased risk.