Evaluating the risk of blood cancers in firefighters
Pre-malignant States to Hematologic Malignancies in Firefighters
This study is testing if firefighters who have been exposed to harmful substances are at a higher risk for blood cancers and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 300 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 49 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Wake Forest University Health Sciences Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Charlotte, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT06870760 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to assess whether firefighters' exposure to hazardous compounds increases the incidence of pre-malignant hematological conditions, which may lead to hematologic malignancies. Participants aged 40-49 from the Charlotte Fire Department with at least five years of service will undergo lab tests to evaluate for clonal hematopoiesis and monoclonal gammopathy. Additionally, buccal swabs and blood samples will be collected for future research. If any abnormalities are detected, participants will receive referrals for further diagnostic assessments.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are firefighters aged 40-49 with a minimum of five years of experience at the Charlotte Fire Department.
Not a fit: Patients currently diagnosed with a hematologic malignancy will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to early detection and management of pre-malignant conditions in firefighters, potentially reducing the risk of developing blood cancers.
How similar studies have performed: While there is ongoing research into the health impacts of occupational exposures in firefighters, this specific focus on pre-malignant hematological conditions is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Written informed consent and HIPAA authorization for release of personal health information. 2. Age ≥ 40-49 years at the time of consent (self-reported) 3. Ability of the participant to understand and comply with study procedures for the entire length of the study 4. Currently employed by Charlotte Fire Department (CFD) with at least 5 years on-the -job experience (self-reported) Exclusion Criteria: Anyone with a current diagnosis of a hematologic malignancy will be excluded.
Where this trial is running
Charlotte, North Carolina
- Levine Cancer Institute — Charlotte, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Larry Druhan, PhD — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Megan Lattanze
- Email: Megan.Lattanze@advocatehealth.org
- Phone: 980-442-4239
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.