Last Call Foundation
Media
Including videos, interviews, news articles, meta-analysis and other documentation from LCF's research on firefighter safety.
Research & Meta-Analysis
Hierarchy of Contamination Control in the Fire Service: Review of Exposure Control Options to Reduce Cancer Risk
Summary
Firefighters are faced with a broad range of toxic exposures during their work, including known and suspected carcinogens. The current study is an update to the previously published meta-analysis of cancer risk among firefighters by Soteriades and colleagues.
​
View, print, or save .pdf of full report here:
Effect of Plasma and Blood Donations on Levels of PFA Substances in Firefighters in Australia: A Randomized Clinical Trial
.jpg)
Summary
Elevated levels of blood perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been associated with a range of adverse health outcomes.
​
View, print, or save .pdf of full report here:
Meta-Analysis of Incidence and Mortality of Firefighter Cancer: An Update on Emerging Science
Summary
The international fire service community is actively engaged in activities focused on development, testing, and implementation of effective approaches to reduce exposure to contaminants and cancer risk.
​
View, print, or save .pdf of full report here:
Firefighter Perceptions of Cancer Risk: Results of a Qualitative Study
Summary
Recent epidemiological research on firefighters indicates an increased incidence of specific types of cancer. Intervention is needed in the fire service yet little is known about how firefighters perceive their cancer risk.
​
View, print, or save .pdf of full report here:
Dermal Absorption Studies of Perfluorinated Alkyl Substances
Summary
PFAS are highly persistent chemicals used in treatment of fabrics, in fire-fighting chemicals and many other applications. These compounds are a significant environmental concern due to their persistent nature and demonstrated toxicity.
View, print, or save .pdf of full report here:
August 2024
Firefighters face uniquely extreme asbestos exposure risks, and as a result, they suffer an elevated rate of asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. Many organizations support firefighters with occupational cancer and work to prevent toxic exposure in the future.
August 21st, 2024
Epithelioid Mesothelioma
Epithelioid mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It accounts for 50% to 70% of all cases. It develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart. Epithelioid cells respond better to treatment than other mesothelioma cell types. Life expectancy ranges from 14.4 months to 51.5 months.
July 8th, 2020
New Partnership Helps Firefighters Beat Occupational Cancer
A newly awarded grant from The Last Call Foundation will allow DetecTogether, formerly called 15-40 Connection*, to continue expanding its Firefighter Initiative, educating first responders and helping reduce cancer mortality in the fire service.
April 12th, 2019
Brian Baxter was ironing his trousers for his job interview with the Boston Fire Department when a massive blaze in the Back Bay flashed across the TV newscast.
