Medical Physicals and Emerging Fireground Exposures Research
Annual medical physicals and wellness programs continue to be a critical issue for the fire service. The growing body of research on issues such as cardiac health and exposures risks points to a need to conduct both incumbent and ongoing annual medical physicals for all firefighters.
Researchers are also starting to look into the relationship between long-term health, exposures and tactical changes on the fireground. The recently published interim report, Cardiovascular and Chemical Exposures in Modern Firefighting, is bridging the gap between tactics and health concerns. The research is being conducted by the Illinois Fire Service Institute, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health and UL Firefighter Safety Research Institute, with support from the Assistance to Firefighter Grant program. Look for more information from this research team as they continue to refine and analyze the data.
In December, the IAFC announced a new FSTAR focus on medical physicals. This month, we’re asking you to share any success stories you have concerning medical physicals and wellness programs. The ongoing research is a great resource, but personal stories shed light on how to incorporate lessons learned and remind us why health and wellness is important. As with any health information, please make sure to comply with all HIPAA and confidentiality requirements; no information will be shared without your approval. Send your stories to us at fstar@iafc.org.
Featured Studies
Featured Studies translate research studies into information and tools you can use. Available now:
- The Use of Elevators for Evacuation in Fire Emergencies in International Buildings
- High-Intensity Fitness Training Among a National Sample of Male Career Firefighters
- Changes in Smoke Alarm Coverage Following Two Fire Department Home Visiting Campaigns: What Predicts Success?
Visit our complete collection. Stay tuned for more!
Researcher Reviews
In addition to offering our Featured Studies, FSTAR is partnering with researchers to translate their research into information can you can use. Check out this month’s Researcher Reviews:
- Physician Weight Recommendations for Overweight and Obese Firefighters, United States, 2011-2012
- Health Disparities Among Racial and Ethnic Minority Firefighters
Fire Service Resources
In addition to offering our Featured Studies, FSTAR is partnering with researchers to translate their research into information can you can use. Check out this month’s Researcher Reviews: