Health Promotion in Volunteer Firefighters: Assessing Knowledge of Risk for Developing Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiac events are strongly associated with line of duty deaths among firefighters. Among a convenience sample (N = 14) of volunteer firefighters, a questionnaire assessed their knowledge of cardiovascular disease before and after cardiovascular health training using evidence-based guidelines. The questionnaire explored their pattern of physical activity, awareness of their lipid levels, body mass index, as well as signs and symptoms of cardiovascular disease. Thereafter, an educational health program was conducted. Firefighters demonstrated an increase in knowledge post training, in that they were able to identify cardiovascular risk factors and personal determinants of cardiovascular disease. Occupational health providers are encouraged to educate firefighters about the seriousness of cardiovascular disease, and to implement measures to promote better lifestyle behaviors.