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Pulmonary function in firefighters: a six-year follow-up in the Boston Fire Department
American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|January 1, 1982
Summary
Firefighting did not significantly impact pulmonary function in Boston firefighters over six years. Increased use of respiratory protection appears to mitigate long-term smoke exposure effects on lung capacity.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Firefighting involves exposure to smoke and respiratory irritants.
- Long-term effects of occupational smoke exposure on pulmonary function are a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively assess the impact of firefighting on pulmonary function.
- To investigate the relationship between firefighting exposure and lung capacity decrements.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of 951 Boston firefighters (1970-1976).
- Measured ventilatory capacity (FEV1, FVC), cough, and respiratory symptoms.
- Analyzed pulmonary function changes over six years.
Main Results:
- Mean annual decrements in FEV1 and FVC were observed.
- Pulmonary function remained near predicted levels for healthy adults.
- Current smoking was linked to poorer lung function and increased bronchitis.
- No correlation found between pulmonary function changes and firefighting exposure indices.
Conclusions:
- Firefighting exposure did not lead to significant long-term pulmonary function decline in this cohort.
- Use of respiratory protective equipment and selection effects likely contributed to lung health preservation.
- Smoking remains a significant risk factor for respiratory issues in firefighters.