Trending Topics

‘You can really decrease your risk’: Dr. Jeff Burgess talks firefighter cancer

Detailing simple steps to reduce exposures and improve long-term health

“We can now answer all sorts of questions” about firefighter cancer risks and mitigations, shares Dr. Jeff Burgess, one of the most well-known fire service researchers who is fighting the good fight — for you. Dr. Burgess, who serves as director of the Center for Firefighter Health Collaborative Research at the University of Arizona, details the two major categories where firefighters can take action to reduce their cancer risks — exposure reduction and healthy living — and offers simple steps related to both. Tune in to hear his guidance on the following:

  • PFAS (aka “forever chemicals”)
  • Overhaul and engineers on air
  • Plasma and blood donation
  • Municipal water sources
  • On-scene decon
  • Carpet at the stations

Resources:

This episode of the Better Every Shift Podcast is sponsored by MagneGrip. Eliminate diesel exhaust fumes from inside the fire station with a MagneGrip exhaust removal system. Learn more at MagneGrip.com.

Enjoying the show? Please take a moment to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts. You can also follow the show on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your podcasts. And email bettereveryshift@firerescue1.com to share your feedback.


 
Previously on the Better Every Shift Podcast
The Montgomery County Fire & Rescue fire chief reflects on his first year at the department
Dr. Glenn Landry details the science behind good sleep and how firefighters can adapt
Firefighter Paul Duran shares his stellate ganglion block experience, and Dr. Jim Lynch explains the science behind the procedure
Andrew Klein details the commercial fire where light smoke turned violent eruption, plus what saved him and how he’s managing his mental health
The NFFF director of fire programs details the many actions firefighters can take today to improve long-term survivability and quality of life