(INDIANA) - A state pilot program found elevated levels of potentially harmful PFAS chemicals in the blood of Indiana firefighters, with higher concentrations linked to firefighting foam, protective gear, and certain emergency responses.
The study was conducted by the Indiana Department of Homeland Security in partnership with Eurofins Scientific, under authority granted by legislation passed in 2023.
PFAS, short for perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are chemicals used for their heat- and water-resistant properties but have been associated with increased health risks, including cancer.
About 930 firefighters, mostly active but some retired, participated in an initial survey. Of those who later consented to blood testing, 316 firefighters ultimately submitted samples. Testing measured 45 PFAS compounds.
The results showed:
- 88 percent of participants fell into a medium-risk category
- 3.5 percent were classified as high risk, all with 15 or more years of service
- Higher PFAS levels were associated with frequent use of firefighting foam, regular contact with protective gear, and limited gear decontamination
Firefighters who routinely cleaned their gear after exposure tended to have lower PFAS levels than those who rarely or never did. Researchers also found slightly higher PFAS concentrations among firefighters involved in hazardous materials responses and other specialized calls.
The report noted that while most firefighters expressed concern about PFAS exposure, many had not received formal training. Researchers recommended expanded safety education, regular decontamination practices, use of non-PFAS foams when possible, and broader voluntary blood testing.
There are currently no approved medical treatments to remove PFAS from the body. Researchers described the pilot as a baseline for future study and called for expanded testing to examine long-term health outcomes and non-occupational exposure sources.