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‘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.

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Previously on the Better Every Shift Podcast
Fire Chief Brian Schaeffer explains how ego, burnout and the “Chiefs Against Virtually Everything” mindset can stall progress — and why leaders must choose growth over comfort
Deputy Chief Darin Wallentine details the seven components of this year’s annual event
From sleep and nutrition to trauma and gratitude, it’s time to take a big-picture approach to resilience built for the realities of the fire service
Dena Ali explains why firefighter wellness is established long before a bad call — through culture, communication and sleep habits
The former U.S. fire administrator details her new role at the Fire Safety Research Institute, plus ideas for how to better elevate the fire service at home and abroad