Wildland Firefighting: Adverse Influence on Indices of Metabolic and Cardiovascular Health.

J Occup Environ Med

Institute of Arctic Biology, University of Alaska Fairbanks, Fairbanks, AK (Dr Coker, Dr Murphy, Ms Johannsen, and Mr Galvin); Montana Center for Work Physiology and Exercise Metabolism, University of Montana, Missoula, MT (Dr Ruby).

Published: March 2019

AI Article Synopsis

  • This study aimed to assess changes in body composition, muscle, and blood parameters of wildland firefighters in Alaska before and after the fire season.* -
  • 27 firefighters were monitored over approximately 63 operational days, using advanced imaging and blood tests to evaluate changes.* -
  • Results showed increases in body fat, cholesterol levels, and potential liver lipid accumulation, highlighting the need for strategies to address these health risks linked to their demanding work.*

Article Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate pre- and postseason measures of body composition, skeletal muscle, and blood parameters/liver lipid in wildland firefighters (WLFF) over the fire season.

Methods: Alaskan WLFF (N = 27) crews were evaluated pre- and postwildfire season, which included 63 ± 10 operational days. Body composition, thigh muscle area, and liver lipid were quantified using dual-energy radiograph absorptiometry and magnetic resonance imaging, respectively. Blood metabolic and lipid panels were also collected and analyzed.

Results: Total body, fat, and visceral fat mass increased from pre- to postseason (P < 0.05). Total cholesterol, LDL, and total globulin also increased (P < 0.05). There was a trend (P = 0.06) towards an increase in intrahepatic lipid.

Conclusions: The observed maladaptive changes in adipose tissue, blood lipids, and hepatic function may reflect adaptations/consequences to occupational demands/conditions and warrant evaluation of appropriate countermeasures.

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Source
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6411444PMC
http://dx.doi.org/10.1097/JOM.0000000000001535DOI Listing

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