UA Gets $1.5M for Firefighter Safety Research
Researchers at the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health and College of Engineering will lead a firefighter safety study in partnership with the Tucson Fire Department, intended to reduce cancer risks among first responders.
Cancer is a leading cause of death among firefighters. Exposure to carcinogens occurs through skin contamination and inhalation of smoke, diesel exhaust and other chemical gases, vapors and particulates.
A UA team led by Dr. Jeff Burgess, associate dean of research in the Zuckerman College of Public Health, is evaluating exposure to carcinogens throughout the work shift, measuring biomarkers and testing interventions.
Blood and urine will be analyzed for chemical contaminants in the lab of co-investigator Shane Snyder, professor of chemical and environmental engineering.
These include high-resolution mass spectrometry to identify previously untargeted combustion products as well as evaluating responses of human cells exposed to the same chemicals in the laboratory.”
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