A dangerous job: Firefighters face an increased risk of cancer, disease

The president of the firefighters’ union in Fort McMurray in northern Alberta fears the lives of some his crew will be shortened because of their exhaustive efforts against a destructive wildfire in May. Firefighters in general are believed to face more health problems:

A study by the National Institute for Occupational Safety in the United States revealed in 2013 that firefighters have increased risks for several major cancers, including melanoma, acute myeloid leukemia and cancers of the esophagus, prostate, brain and kidney.

The International Association of Fire Fighters says on its website that firefighters also face a risk of developing lung disease, heart disease, asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).