Respiratory Diseases and the Fire Service

The United States Fire Administration (USFA), in partnership with the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), announce the release of Respiratory Diseases and the Fire Service, a report discussing the findings of a long-term study intended to examine and improve the occupational health of fire fighters.  This is the first ever manual fully addressing all aspects of respiratory issues.  The press release can be found here. 

Respiratory diseases remain a significant health issue for fire fighters and emergency responders.  It is the number three killer in North America, exceeded by heart disease and cancer.  Although medical progress has led to improvements in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases, prevention remains the best method of decreasing the number of such diseases and related deaths.  However, understanding diseases of the respiratory system, identifying respiratory disease-causing agents, and avoiding exposure to these agents are keys in preventing fire fighter respiratory diseases. 

Click here for the Respiratory Disease and the Fire Service manual.