Abstract Objective This study aims to assess glucose as a biomarker for the sympathetic stress response in firefighters. Methods Fifteen professional firefighters wore continuous glucometers over a 12-day period. We observed glucose levels during on-duty emergency calls and off-duty stressful events. Perceived stress levels were reported, and metabolic confounders (food and drink intake) were controlled for. Results Glucose both increased and decreased during stressful events, with 39% of on-duty glucose decreases being associated with physically demanding tasks. The magnitude of glucose change was affected by perceived stress and duration of emergency calls. Stressful events happened 5.43 times (95% CI 4.31-6.85) more often on-duty. On-duty fasting glucose values varied significantly from off-duty fasting glucose values. Conclusions Our findings shed light on the relationship between occupational stress and high prevalence of stress related health conditions in firefighters.
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