Ss07-06 Occupational Exposure as a Firefighter: Contribution From Biomonitoring Assays

Abstract Introduction The occupational exposure as a firefighter was recently classified as carcinogenic to humans by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. The firefighters’ activity is genotoxic, induces epigenetic alterations, oxidative stress, and chronic inflammation. Firefighting forces are occupationally exposed to different chemical hazards primarily via inhalation and dermal contact. Over the last decades, human biomonitoring studies have characterized the direct impact of occupational activity, particularly firefighting, on firefighters’ bodies. Materials and Methods This work describes the contribution of firefighters’ biomonitoring to better understand the exposure levels and related health risks. Human biomonitoring assays have significantly contributed to characterizing the occupational exposure of firefighting forces with the determination of different biomarkers of exposure to health-relevant pollutants, particularly those released during fires, in firefighters’ biological fluids (e.g., urine, blood, and saliva). Results Overall, biological levels of some volatile organic compounds including polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons and metals were predominantly increased in firefighters after participation in firefighting activities. Moreover, biomonitoring assays performed on firefighters also characterized some biomarkers of effect, namely oxidative stress, DNA damage, stress hormones, inflammation, and vascular, lung, and liver injury. Conclusion These assays demonstrated short-term biological changes that if prolonged throughout the firefighter's career can promote the development and/or aggravation of diseases (e.g., cardio-respiratory diseases and cancer). The major limitations of biomonitoring assays will be highlighted, and future research needs will be proposed.