Local News

Texan Firefighters Fight Flames and Increased Cancer Risk

By  | 
Tony Maples Photography

 

Firefighters risk their lives when they combat flames to keep us safe, but they can also face other dangers long after the flames go out. Fire departments in San Antonio are taking a closer look at these hazards and hopefully, how to reduce them.

Studies have shown that firefighters have a largely increased risk of developing mesothelioma, multiple myeloma, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer due to exposure of harmful materials like asbestos, diesel fumes, and burning chemicals.

San Antonio’s START Center for Cancer Care Oncologist, Dr. Steve Kalter, told KENS5, “They call it dying with your boots off. Sixty percent of firefighters die from malignancy.”

Some precautions can be taken to reduce the exposure to damaging chemicals and fumes. Bunks and uniforms could be cleaned more often and exhaust capture systems could be installed so diesel fumes from the trucks stop leaking into living quarters.

City spokesman Jeff Coyle relayed information about a $1.8 million budget proposal, saying, “The proposed budget the city manager will present to the council and mayor in mid-August will have funding for exhaust removal systems in all fire stations that don’t have them already.” Firefighters and their families hope that the measures taken are enough to make a difference in their health and safety.