Firefighters warned about heart attack risk

Conclusion This randomised crossover trial aimed to assess whether putting out a fire has an effect on the biological signs of cardiovascular health of firefighters.  By simulating a fire fighting scenario the researchers found that exposure to these conditions increased tendency of the blood to clot, reduced the stretchiness of the blood vessel walls, and caused a slight increase in a marker of heart muscle damage. This trial is thought to be the first assessing this link. Whilst a randomised controlled trial is the best way of investigating this link, there are some limitations to consider. The trial included a controlled scenario with much of the risk of removed, in a real life situation the level of exertion and stress may be greater. This was also carried out in healthy firefighters under specific conditions which is not a true reflection of all firefighters attending firefighting activities. Whilst the firefighters had to be off duty for 48 hours to avoid their work in the previous 48 hours affecting results, we do not know if other non-work related exposures may have altered findings. While the study was reported as a randomised crossover trial it wasn't clearly stated that the firefighters undertook the fire simulation exercise and the control activity in random order, which is important for making sure the participants' characteristics on the day were as well balanced as possible. This is a small study, and whilst the findings do suggest ways in whi...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Heart/lungs Source Type: news