Occupational Exposures for Cancer
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial examines how certain job-related exposures, including chemicals known as PFAS (found in firefighting foam), affect firefighters. It aims to compare firefighters with non-firefighters to determine if these exposures have specific health impacts. Individuals who have worked as firefighters, are part of a cancer screening program, and are willing to provide blood, urine, or tissue samples may be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants the chance to contribute to important research that could enhance health outcomes for firefighters.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the study team or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that PFAS / heavy metal testing is safe?
Research has shown that exposure to PFAS chemicals links to various health risks. Some long-term studies found that exposure to PFAS can increase the risk of developing conditions like Type 2 diabetes and cancer. People in certain jobs, such as firefighters, might face higher risks due to greater exposure to these chemicals. Testing for PFAS and heavy metals is important to determine the levels of these substances in the body. The testing is safe and non-invasive, checking for the presence of these chemicals without introducing new risks.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it aims to uncover the impact of occupational exposures on the health of firefighters compared to non-firefighters. Unlike typical studies that focus on direct medical treatments, this investigation seeks to understand the broader environmental and occupational factors that might affect health outcomes for firefighters. By examining these differences, researchers hope to identify specific risks and develop better preventive strategies to protect those who work in such high-risk environments. Ultimately, this could lead to improved safety protocols and health monitoring for firefighters.
What evidence suggests that PFAS / heavy metal testing is effective for understanding cancer risk among firefighters?
Research shows that chemicals called per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), used in many industrial products, link to higher cancer risks. Studies have found that PFAS in drinking water connects to more cases of cancers in the digestive system, hormone-related organs, mouth, throat, and lungs. People exposed to high levels of PFAS, especially those working in places like chemical plants, face a greater risk of kidney cancer. PFAS are harmful pollutants that can enter the body and may cause various health problems. This trial will compare PFAS exposure levels between different groups, including firefighters and non-firefighters, to assess potential risks. These findings highlight the need for testing PFAS exposure, particularly for groups like firefighters who might be more at risk.56789
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Exposure Assessment
Participants' occupational exposures, including PFAS, are assessed
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in cancer pathophysiology related to occupational exposures
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- PFAS / heavy metal testing
How Is the Trial Designed?
2
Treatment groups
Experimental Treatment
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Vincere Cancer Center
Lead Sponsor
Citations
Associations between per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances ...
PFAS in drinking water was associated with increased cancer incidence in the digestive, endocrine, oral cavity/pharynx, and respiratory systems.
PFAS Testing and Concentrations to Inform Clinical Care of ...
This chapter addresses options and considerations to guide decision making for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) testing in a patient's biological ...
Human health risk assessment of Per- and polyfluoroalkyl ...
PFAS, which are emerging pollutants originating from anthropogenic activity, may pose significant harm to the environment and propagate to the human body ...
PFAS Exposure and Risk of Cancer - NCI
Higher kidney cancer incidence and mortality have been observed among individuals with high PFOA exposures from employment in a PFAS-producing chemical plant or ...
Our Current Understanding of the Human Health and ...
Exposure to PFAS May be Harmful to Human Health ... Current scientific research suggests that exposure to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health outcomes.
National PFAS Testing Strategy
This Strategy will help EPA identify and select PFAS for which the Agency will require testing using TSCA authorities.
Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
A long-term study showed a link between PFAS exposure and increased risk of Type 2 diabetes in women. Studies show folate may reduce PFAS accumulation in the ...
PFAS and Worker Health
Workplace exposure to PFAS has been linked to cancer and other health effects. Firefighters and chemical manufacturing workers may be more ...
PFOA, PFOS, and Related PFAS Chemicals
Learn about PFOA (and similar PFAS chemicals such as PFOS) and their possible effects on cancer risk here.
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