Pulmonary function and respiratory symptoms in forest firefighters

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health
• Environmental Medicine
• Pulmonary Physiology

Background:

• Forest firefighters face high concentrations of occupational smoke.
• Previous research on cross-shift respiratory effects in this population is limited.
• Understanding immediate and seasonal impacts is crucial for firefighter well-being.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the cross-shift and cross-season effects of smoke exposure on respiratory health in forest firefighters.
• To quantify changes in lung function parameters during and after work shifts.
• To identify potential risk factors associated with respiratory health declines.

Main Methods:

• Cross-shift and cross-season spirometric measurements (FVC, FEV1, FEF25-75) were collected.
• Self-administered questionnaires gathered data on work shifts and living conditions.
• Seventy-six firefighters were studied for cross-shift and 53 for cross-season analysis.

Main Results:

• Significant mean individual declines in FVC, FEV1, and FEF25-75 were observed cross-shift.
• Preshift to postshift declines averaged 0.065 L (FVC), 0.150 L (FEV1), and 0.496 L/sec (FEF25-75).
• Cross-season analysis also showed declines, with FEV1 changes being statistically significant (p < 0.05). Indoor wood heating was linked to FEV1 declines.

Conclusions:

• Occupational smoke exposure in forest firefighters is associated with adverse respiratory effects.
• Lung function declines were evident both during and after work shifts, and over the season.
• While some effects may be reversible, sustained monitoring and protective measures are warranted for firefighter respiratory health.