Effects of Emergency Duties on Cardiovascular Diseases in Firefighters: A 13-Year Retrospective Cohort Study

Abstract

Objectives: This study aimed to examine the effects of firefighters' emergency duties on the incidence of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Methods: We used a 13-year follow-up in a nationwide retrospective cohort study. A total of 363,137 employees were recruited. The sex-and age-specific incidence of CVD (hypertension, angina pectoris, and acutemyocardial infarction [AMI]) in firefighters and public officials was estimated.

Results: The overall age-specific sex-based incidence of CVD, except for hypertension, was higher in firefighters than in public officials. The age-stratified hazard ratios for the three types of CVD in male firefighters were also higher. AMI was more common in younger firefighters, whereas angina pectoris and hypertension were common in older firefighters.

Conclusions: Firefighters' duties are more likely to increase the risk of CVD, and preventive strategies with proven benefits are required.