Veteran firefighters appear to have a higher risk of brain tumors called gliomas, which can be caused by gene mutations linked to flame retardant chemicals called haloalkanes, researchers reported in a study published in the journal Cancer. Adobe stock/HealthDay
Firefighters might face a higher risk of brain cancers caused by exposure to chemicals in fire extinguishers, a new small-scale study says.
Veteran firefighters appear to have a higher risk of brain tumors called gliomas, which can be caused by gene mutations linked to flame retardant chemicals called haloalkanes, researchers reported in a study published Monday in the journal Cancer.
Previous studies have highlighted a mutational pattern, or “signature” in gliomas linked to haloalkane exposure, researchers said.
“In these data, we…