UTHealth Houston Launches $5 Million Study to Investigate Cancer Risks Among Texas Firefighters
HOUSTON, TX – UTHealth Houston’s School of Public Health has launched a $5 million research study dedicated to understanding and mitigating cancer risks faced by firefighters in Texas, following teh recent passage of a state legislative bill funding the initiative. A kick-off event was held Wednesday to formally begin the project, bringing together researchers, legislators, and firefighter union representatives.
The study will focus on exposure assessments,measuring the carcinogens firefighters inhale during their work and identifying ways to reduce intake.researchers hope the findings will lead to improved policies, stronger equipment standards, and ultimately, better health outcomes for first responders.
“This project is about finding answers and saving lives,” said Patrick M. “Marty” Lancton, President of the Houston Professional Fire Fighters Association, at the event. “Exposure assessments will measure what firefighters are breathing in and provide details on ways to reduce intake of those carcinogens. These findings will lead to better policy, stronger equipment standards and real change in how we protect fire fighter health.”
The research is supported by a team of investigators from the School of Public Health, including Kristina Mena, PhD; Miryoung Lee, phd, MPH; Eva Deemer, PhD; Dejian Lai, PhD; Juan Aguilera, MD; Maria Fernandez, PhD; and Derek Craig, PhD.The Southwest Center for Occupational and Environmental Health and the Human Genetic Center are also providing support.
State Representative Lacey Hull (District 138) emphasized the importance of addressing chronic diseases and environmental health concerns impacting firefighters. “Our firefighters deserve answers and prevention, and we are excited to see the launch of this research study,” Hull stated. “I was glad to work with my colleagues in the Legislature to appropriate funding for this. As we focus on Making Texas Healthy again,it is vital to prioritize the public servants who place their lives on the line for our safety.”
John Riddle, president of the Texas State Association of Fire Fighters, echoed this sentiment, stating, “The goal of this comprehensive research is clear, to develop policies and programs to protect firefighters’ health. Texas firefighters are deeply grateful to our state leaders for making this a priority. Their support sends a powerful message, the lives and well-being of Texas firefighters matter.”
The appropriations rider approving funding for the study was championed by several key legislators including Senator Brandon Creighton, Representative Jared Patterson, Representative mando Martinez, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, and Speaker Dustin Burrows, alongside Senator Carol Alvarado (represented by district director Erin Gonzales).
