b'ABOVE: This IARC table helps to explain the inherent risks associated with occupational exposure as a fire fighter causes RECLASSIFICATION OF cancer. Sufficient evidence also was found for increased risk in FIREFIGHTING THROUGH IARC fire fighters for mesothelioma and bladder cancer, and limited The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is anevidence for several other cancers.intergovernmental agency under the World Health Organization (WHO) that focuses on conducting research into the causes of cancer, identifying factors that increase the risk of cancer andIn 2022, leading cancer experts conducted a thorough developing strategies for cancer prevention. The agency alsoinvestigation and analysis that resulted in IARCs declaration provides guidance to governments and health organizations onthat occupational exposure as a fire fighter is carcinogenic to cancer-control policies and strategies. humans based on sufficient evidence of cancer in humans. This signifies that the risks and hazards that fire fighters encounter in their line of work are comparable to highly potent cancer-causing agents such as benzene, tobacco and asbestos. The As stored energyIARCs reclassification of this profession as a Group 1 carcinogen devices become increasinglycarries significant implications for fire fighters, policymakers and those responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being common, the associatedof fire fighters in their roles. This highlights the critical need for hazards, such as thermalproactive measures to minimize exposure to carcinogens, along with ongoing research and advocacy efforts to support the health runaway and toxicand welfare of fire fighters.gas release, pose greaterGroup 1: The agent is carcinogenic to humans.risks to fire fighters.This category is used when there is sufficient evidence for cancer in humans. In other words, there is convincing evidence that the Visit wscff.org/hihoagent causes cancer in humans. The evaluation is usually based on the results of epidemiological studies showing development for more information. of cancer in exposed humans. 21'