What percentage of on-duty deaths from 1994 to 2004 was attributed to heart disease in a large US study?

The correct answer reflects that during the specified period, heart disease accounted for approximately 40% of on-duty firefighter deaths. This statistic highlights the significant health risks firefighters face, even outside of direct line-of-duty incidents such as fires or rescues.

Heart disease can be exacerbated by the physical strain and stress associated with firefighting, including the intense physical demands of the job, exposure to high temperatures, and the psychological stress from responding to emergencies. The study underscores the importance of health screenings, fitness programs, and proactive measures to mitigate the risks related to cardiovascular health in this profession.

Understanding these statistics emphasizes the need for departments to prioritize the physical well-being of their personnel, implementing wellness programs and lifestyle modifications that can help reduce the prevalence of heart disease among firefighters.