The term “firefighter” and “cancer” have become so intertwined in the past decade that they are now nearly inseparable. Occupational exposure of firefighters to carcinogenic chemicals may increase their risk of developing different types of cancer. PFAS are one of the major classes of carcinogenic chemicals that firefighters are exposed to as occupational hazard. Elevated levels of PFAS have been observed in firefighters’ blood serum in recent studies. Possible sources of occupational exposure to PFAS include turnout gear, aqueous film-forming foam, and air and dust at both the fire scene and fire station.

PFAS has been linked to testicular cancer in firefighters, as well as other forms of cancer. In an excellent June 29, 2023 story by Kelly Kenoyer for WHQR, she writes:

“Last year, scientists released a study showing that turnout gear — that’s the clothing firefighters wear into burning buildings — is filled with PFAS. All three layers of the standard protective gear tested for high levels of the chemicals, linked to a host of cancers and other health issues. That study followed a 2020 scientific paper that showed similar results.

Given that firefighters die of cancer more than anything else in the field, the news was heart-rending…”

Now, the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) has put out a new set of guidelines to limit exposure to PFAS in turnout gear, including decontamination procedures and avoiding contact with the clothing whenever possible.

The president of the IAFF, Edward Kelly, said in a March summit presentation that the industry will have to change its culture to respond to this frightening revelation…

Kelly couldn’t keep the pain out of his voice in the presentation. He mentioned calling 31 retired firefighters for a Christmas party, and more than half of them had cancer.

“Did you know that PFAS stays on your skin once you’re exposed to it for about three weeks?” He asked. “It’s kind of like a nicotine patch. You can rip it off, but the nicotine absorbs into your skin. Even if you take a shower. That’s what we’re exposing ourselves to. They’ve done dust studies in the firehouses. They are loaded with PFAS.”

…Their exposure makes them prone to reproductive problems, kidney disease, and immunological problems. And for mothers who are firefighters, there’s the worry of passing those problems on to their children.

That’s why firefighters want to find alternatives to the PFAS-filled gear.

…it’s a challenge to even get alternate gear. First, cities or counties have to choose to fund those alternatives, and find a place in their budgets.

While firefighters are desperate for gear that protects them without exposing them to PFAS, it’s hard to come by. The IAFF says there is currently no PFAS-free turnout gear available on the market.