Exercise as Medicine: Reducing Firefighters' Risk of Cancer, Heart Disease, and Burnout
Firefighters face elevated risks for a range of serious health conditions, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders, which are driven by the unique demands, exposures, and stressors of the job. While efforts to reduce occupational hazards are critical, the evidence also highlights the protective and restorative power of physical activity. Regular exercise has been shown to lower the risk of at least 13 types of cancer, improve cardiovascular and metabolic health, and in some cases outperform medication or counseling for the treatment of common mental health conditions. It may be the single most impactful action firefighters can take to improve their health span and build long-term resilience. This class will explore exercise as a frontline intervention by emphasizing its role in preventing chronic disease, mitigating burnout, and supporting operational readiness. Attendees will leave with a deeper understanding of the evidence and practical strategies to embed movement into everyday life-both on and off the job.
