Cancer in there Fire Service

Excerpts from news.nd.edu:

Scientists at the University of Notre Dame are diving into a new research project focused on the safety of firefighter turnout gear, following alarming findings of fluorine in initial samples. The study is led by Graham Peaslee, a professor of experimental nuclear physics, who has been investigating the presence of perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) in protective clothing.

Peaslee’s lab tested fabric swatches from unused gear and found extremely high levels of fluorine — "off the scale" in most cases, according to him. This discovery has prompted a broader investigation into both new and used turnout gear that has been in service for over a decade. The research includes jackets, pants, and undershirts, with a focus on how much PFASs may be released through use, washing, and exposure to heat and light.

PFASs have been linked to serious health issues such as prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers, thyroid disease, and low birthweight. These chemicals are commonly found in stain-resistant products and nonstick cookware. In 2017, Peaslee was part of a team that revealed the presence of PFASs in fast-food packaging, raising awareness about their widespread use.

Another major source of PFASs is aqueous film-forming foam, used in firefighting. This foam has been connected to water contamination incidents, especially in places like Michigan, where communities have traced pollution back to its use. In response, some fire departments are seeking alternatives, and the U.S. Air Force has already phased out PFAS-based foams in favor of safer options.

To detect PFASs, Peaslee uses a unique method called particle-induced gamma-ray emission spectroscopy, which allows for efficient and cost-effective testing of total fluorine content. His team will analyze how much of the chemical transfers from the gear during washing, wear, and environmental exposure.

"We're going to measure each piece of gear and track changes in fluorine levels over time," Peaslee explained. "We'll look at whether washing or exposure to heat and light affects the chemical bonds. If the fluorine is being released, it could end up in the environment — and that's what worries me the most."

PFASs are known for their persistence in the environment, with long half-lives that make them difficult to break down. While there's still no clear evidence that they can be absorbed through skin contact, Peaslee co-authored a 2017 study showing that certain PFASs can accumulate in organs like the brain and stomach in mice. This raises concerns about long-term exposure, especially for firefighters who work closely with this gear daily.

"If we see a measurable decrease in fluorine levels after testing, that means the chemical has entered the environment," he said. "That environment includes the workplaces and homes of these firefighters. This is an important study that needs to be done." Peaslee is conducting the research pro bono, driven by his concern for public health and environmental safety.

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