Firefighters Have an Increased Chance of Having Gene Mutations Associated with Brain Cancer, Study Says
New research shows that firefighters diagnosed with gliomas tend to have a particular set of genetic mutations that aren’t so common in individuals engaged in other occupations. In the past, those specific gene mutations had been linked to haloalkane exposure. Haloalkanes are chemicals often used in fire extinguishers and fire retardants. This study is the first one ever to confirm that haloalkane exposure is a possible risk factor heralding the development of gliomas. Gliomas have proven to be difficult to treat. The study lead, Prof. Elizabeth Claus, based at Yale School of Public Health, explains that their study is the…