Women in the Fire Service

"Conclusion: Female firefighters experienced a wide variety of different types of cancers which may come earlier than similar cancers in the public. These findings can help inform resource allocation, the development of new policies, and the need for broader presumptive coverage to support female firefighters diagnosed with cancer."

"Objectives: This study explored how demographic characteristics, life experiences, and firefighting experiences have an impact on work-related injuries among female firefighters, and described events surrounding such work-related injuries."

Abstract: "Female firefighters have occupational exposures which may negatively impact their reproductive health. Anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) is a clinical marker of ovarian reserve. We investigated whether AMH levels differed in female firefighters compared to non-firefighters and whether there was a dose-dependent relationship between years of firefighting and AMH levels."

"Conclusions: Firefighters may have greater risk of preterm birth than non-firefighters, which could be influenced by roles in the fire service and work restrictions taken."

"Conclusions: Age-standardized miscarriage prevalence among firefighters may be greater than non-firefighters and there may be variation in risk of miscarriage by fire service role. Further research is needed to clarify these associations to inform policy and decision-making."

"Methods
This cross-sectional study compared the prevalence of perceived stress, peer (functional) support, anxiety, depression, PTSD, chronic work discrimination and harassment, resilience, and job satisfaction in recruit (n=184) and incumbent (n=200) career women firefighters."

"In this episode (May 2025) of the Women in Fire, leading voices from the fire service engage in a critical discussion on mental health, coinciding with National Mental Health Awareness Month (May). The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing mental health challenges faced by firefighters, exploring the stigma associated with vulnerability, and advocating for a culture of openness and support. Featuring insights from seasoned professionals, the panel emphasizes the need to cultivate resilience within teams and the significance of providing mental health resources right from the start of a firefighter’s career. As the members of the panel share personal experiences and strategies for fostering emotional well-being, the episode serves as a powerful reminder that true strength lies in acknowledging our challenges and supporting one another."