A national research study is recruiting participants diagnosed with ALS to examine why firefighters may face higher risk than the general population.
A post on the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) website outlined details of the Champion Insights study and its call for participants.
The study is led by Answer ALS, Augie’s Quest to Cure ALS and the ALS Therapy Development Institute (ALS TDI), with support from the Muscular Dystrophy Association (MDA).
Existing studies suggest firefighters have a two-fold risk of developing ALS compared to the rest of the population.
Racquel Cesnalis, MPH, PMP and IAFF Deputy Director, Occupational Health and Medicine, said: “Understanding if there is a link between ALS and firefighting is a priority for the IAFF and MDA.
“Currently there is limited research looking at ALS and the occupation of firefighters.
“The MDA-supported Champion Insights Study will help bridge that gap and hopefully lead to additional research.”
The research includes in-home blood samples and multiple questionnaires from participating firefighters, first responders and elite athletes.
The study has a target enrollment of 500.
The project is seeking to identify genetic and metabolic mechanisms that may explain the higher incidence of ALS among firefighters, endurance athletes and military service members.
Brian Lin, PhD, Director of Research, MDA, said: “There are some theories out there, including exposure to environmental toxins or heavy metals like lead, head injuries, or heavy exertion.
“But nothing has been definitive.
“It’s encouraging to see how detailed the Champion Insights study is.
“Hopefully, the researchers will be able to identify some trends among participants and get closer to finding some answers.”
An ad hoc committee was previously formed with other parties to address limited data on possible connections between ALS and firefighters, along with increased need for patient care resources.
The committee includes three working groups focused on research and data, presumptive legislation and resources and awareness.
Jennie King, Vice President, Fire Fighter Partnerships at MDA, said: “MDA has been working in partnership with the IAFF in the fight for more research and better resources for ALS patients for more than 70 years.
“Together, we have been able to make some amazing progress.
“But there is still work to be done.
“The Champions Insights project will be an important next step.”
The coalition of ALS groups requested and was awarded a grant for the project.
Findings tied to occupational factors could influence presumptive legislation, workplace protections and long-term health monitoring for firefighters nationwide.
