Ann Arbor Times

Firefighters working in wildland-urban interface zones may experience genetic changes that could explain their increased risk for certain cancers and diseases, according to a study by the University of Michigan. This research involved collaboration with fire departments in Los Angeles and Orange County, as well as researchers from UCLA, the University of Miami, and the University of Arizona.

The study utilized blood samples from the Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study to compare microRNAs and DNA methylation changes between firefighters exposed to wildland-urban interface (WUI) fires and those who were not. WUI fires expose firefighters to various chemicals from burning vegetation, structures, vehicles, and other materials without respiratory protection for extended periods.

Jackie Goodrich, lead author and research associate professor at the U-M School of Public Health, stated: “The molecular changes we’re seeing may help to explain why firefighters face higher rates of certain cancers and other health conditions later in their careers. Understanding these biological pathways gives us potential targets for developing protective strategies that could reduce health risks for firefighters.”

A significant finding was that 50 microRNAs changed over a 10-month follow-up period in firefighters who responded to at least one WUI fire. One particular microRNA with tumor suppression activity decreased among those exposed to WUI fires compared to those who were not. These microRNAs are involved in regulating immune function, inflammation, neurological disorders, and cancer. No significant DNA methylation changes were observed.

Goodrich added: “This study builds upon previous evidence from our studies in firefighters that show epigenetic changes accumulating from years of exposure. These new results suggest that even exposure to one-time big events like WUI fires can trigger changes in microRNA expression linked to various disease pathways.” The next steps include determining if these changes persist long-term and developing interventions for firefighter health protection.