Issn Print: 0883-9212
Publication Date: 1997/09/01
AEROBIC POWER AND CARDIOVASCULAR RISK FACTOR PROFILE IN VOLUNTEER FIREFIGHTERS: 10
Ann Marie Swank; Nichelle Allen; Joy Schumm; Kent Adams; J. W. Yates
Excerpt
Volunteer firefighters (VFF) are exposed to the same risks and physiological demands as professional firefighters (PFF). In many areas VFF provide the only coverage for fighting fires and other rescue operations. Therefore, the fitness levels of VFF need to be on a par with the PFF. While there are numerous studies evaluating the aerobic power and health status of PFF, this information is not available for the VFF. The purpose of this investigation was to evaluate the aerobic power and cardiovascular risk factor profile of VFF. A sample of 89 VFF (age 33.8±10.8 yrs) representing five fire stations was selected for analysis. Each subject underwent: 1. submaximal cycle ergometer test to predict VO2max; 2. cardiovascular risk factor profile and 3. serum lipid profile on two separate occasions with an average 4.7±.8 years between tests. Data was analyzed using repeated measures ANOVA with a Scheffe post hoc test (p ≤ 0.05 significance). Results were: 1.Body weight (kg) increased significantly from the first to the second test [87.0 ± 15.4 to 89.7 ± 15.4]; 2. HDL-C (mg/dl) decreased significantly [44.5±10.9 to 39.9±8.7]; 3. The TC/HDL-C ratio increased significantly [4.6 to 5.1]; 4. There was no significant difference in the predicted aerobic power (ml/kg/min) [31.4±8.5 to 31.5±7.2]. Research using simulated firefighting tasks has recommended an aerobic power of 33.5-42.0 ml/kg/min. Sothman and associates (JOM 34(8):797-800, 1992) recommend a fitness level of at least 42 ml/kg/min to allow the fire fighter an adequate reserve capacity to perform the task of fighting fires over an extended period of time. The present study indicates that according to predicted VO2max the VFF have an aerobic power which is 74% of the recommended value (42 ml/kg/min). Therefore, these firefighters may have difficulty performing their job effectively. The serum lipid results indicate an increased atherogenic profile with a lower HDL-C and a higher ratio of TC to HDL-C. The low aerobic power and increased atherogenic lipid profile indicate the need for fitness training, nutrition counseling and education regarding cardiac risk factors in VFF.
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