A new report commissioned by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) has found that firefighters in London are at greater risk of developing cancer than the general population due to exposure to toxic substances. The research highlights higher cancer incidence and abnormal tumour markers among firefighters, who routinely encounter known carcinogens such as asbestos, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants.
Based on a self-reported survey of more than 11,000 firefighters, around one in 25 (4 per cent) have been diagnosed with cancer. The prevalence was highest among those aged 35 to 39, approximately three times the rate in the general population. Additionally, 10 to 15 per cent of firefighters showed abnormal tumour markers compared to a control group.
Steve Wright, FBU General Secretary, described the findings as a 'national scandal' and called for stronger preventative measures and health monitoring. 'Firefighters are dying younger and living with life-altering cancers and chronic illness. These are preventable occupational deaths,' he said, urging the government to act.
The report recommends establishing a UK-wide firefighter exposure and health monitoring programme and piloting exposure monitoring for operational firefighters in London. Green Party leader Zack Polanski, chair of the London Assembly Fire Committee, noted that 'fires don’t end when the flames are put out,' citing the Grenfell tragedy where hundreds were exposed to toxic chemicals. The committee plans to investigate which substances firefighters are most exposed to and how to mitigate the risks.
