Diagnostics of oxidative stress in firefighters and rescuers EMERCOM of Russia

Relevance. Due to their carcinogenic, oxidative and toxic potential, chemical compounds from burning products are especially dangerous for rescuers and firefighters and result in the oxidative stress as a precursor of many diseases. Therefore, it is necessary to diagnose the oxidative stress before its serious effects.
Intention. To assess oxidative stress markers in plasma of rescuers and firefighters of EMERCOM of Russia via modern methods for targeted treatment and preventive actions.
Methodology. Malonic dialdehyde, fat-soluble vitamins (A and E), polyunsaturated omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in plasma were determined by gas and liquid chromatography during routine periodical medical examination of 98 rescuers and firefighters of rescue units of EMERCOM of Russia. The average age of the examined persons was (32.1 ± 0.5) years; of them, 21 were rescuers from the North-West Regional Search and Rescue Squad and 77 were firefighters from the territorial fire departments of St. Petersburg.
Results and Discussion. Malonic dialdehyde plasma concentrations in rescuers and firefighters were 1.5-1.7-fold higher than reference values. Docosahexaenoic and arachidonic acids were increased in all examined groups. In firefighters with work experience of > 10 years, plasma concentrations of eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids were increased. Their antioxidative potential is decreased.
Conclusion. According to the obtained results, rescuers and firefighters can be assigned to a high-risk group in terms of health deterioretion, especially those with work experience for more than 5 years. Periodic correction of the observed changes is recommended.

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