Friday, August 27, 2021 Volunteer Firefighters at Risk of Cardiovascular Events Firefighters are at particular risk of hypertension and volunteer firefighters of cardiac arrest, according to two studies in the US Newsletters Ontario Emergency Services Sectors Emergency Medical Services A study of 5,063 male and 274 female firefighters found that 69 percent met the criteria for hypertension but only 17 percent were on medication to treat this “silent killer.” Hypertension was 11-16 percent higher for firefighters than the general population across all age groups. The study clearly shows that more needs to be done to screen for high blood pressure and manage the condition. A study by the National Fire Protection Association in the US found that 47 percent of deaths among volunteer firefighters were due to a cardiovascular event. The study suggested that more needed to be done to address risk factors, including more in-depth screening, and improve physical fitness. 10 Ways to Protect Firefighters from Cardiovascular Risk Annual electrocardiograms Physical exam and review of health history Cardiovascular blood testing and analysis Awareness training of cardiovascular disease and fitness Testing for the presence of heavy metals connected to arteriosclerosis Testing for CMV and coxsackievirus, which can cause cardiovascular disease Annual nutrition training and detoxification programming Access to equipment and time for exercise Stress management training Sleep assessment and training Source: firefightingincanada.com You might be interested in Why We Work Safely 5 Jun 2026 Standing Your Ground, and Staying Steady on the Job 4 Jun 2026 CLAC Partners with Alberta Government to Advance Skilled Trades Training and Accelerate Certification 4 Jun 2026 Strathcona Mechanical Workers Ratify New Agreement Providing Wage, Scheduling Improvements 3 Jun 2026