Why Firefighters Need Regular Physicals

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Why Firefighters Need Regular Physicals

 

Gordon Graham
Category: Fire

Gordon Graham here with Today’s Tip from Lexipol. Today’s Tip is for fire.

Studies indicate that firefighters are more likely to develop certain cancers than the general public.

Today’s Tip is about firefighters and regular physical exams.  

We seem to be learning more about firefighter health risks every day. Cancer is one of those risks. Recent studies indicate that firefighters are more likely to develop certain cancers than the general public. In fact, some data suggests that firefighters are 68% more likely. This is a serious number that should not be taken lightly.  

I’m not a doctor, but I understand that the earlier that cancer is found, the sooner it can be treated. And the sooner cancer is treated, the better the odds of survival. One way to detect cancer early is through regular physical exams. 

But not everyone in the fire service receives physicals on a regular basis. The majority of U.S. firefighters in the U.S. are volunteers. Some don’t receive the same physicals that paid firefighters might. But the health risks are the same. 

If you are a volunteer firefighter, listen up. Hopefully, you have health insurance. Maybe you purchase it yourself or maybe it is provided by your primary employer. Are you taking advantage of the preventive care benefits? If not, you should start. Even if you have to pay for the physical yourself, it is still a good idea.  

A regular physical is an important step in taking care of yourself. It might help you catch cancer early.  

Be proactive in your healthcare and make sure you are getting appropriate physical exams.  

And that is Today’s Tip from Lexipol. 

Gordon Graham, signing off. 

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