Healthy Living Tips from
The New Jersey Police Chief Magazine | September 2020
HEALTHY TIP : First Responders are at Risk : Get a Screening
The evidence is pretty clear . First responders have higher occupational hazards with well-documented side effects . The taxing conditions of the professions – which are physically and emotionally demanding – also requires dangerous work , heavy uniforms , stress , smoke inhalation , dehydration , and gas and chemical exposure , among other things . In fact , the United States Fire Administration estimates that 47 % of line-of-duty firefighter deaths are cardiac related , and the National Center for Biotechnology Information ( NCBI ) reports that police officers have the poorest cardiovascular disease profile of any occupation .
Because of this , Deborah Heart and Lung Center – with more than 30 years diagnosing and treating first responders – has designed an evidence-based cardiovascular and respiratory health assessment specifically tailored for fire fighters , emergency medical responders , and police and law enforcement personnel .
Know Your Risk Factors
Dr . Paula Seth , Medical Director of Deborah ’ s First Responder Health Assessment , knows that in addition to occupational hazards , many first responders also face lifestyle stresses .
“ Many of our front line heroes juggle not only work-related risks , but also issues like smoking , obesity , lack of exercise , eating ‘ on the run ’ and hypertension ,” she says . “ These all add up to a recipe for disaster for emergency personnel .”
Dr . Seth points to the value of a baseline assessment specific for first responders as a step in the right direction .
“ Deborah ’ s board certified cardiologists can do a thorough review of your risk factors through a complete health history , comprehensive physical , glucose and lipid profile , blood pressure , EKG , and pulmonary function test to get a comprehensive picture of your individual health and job-related risks .”
She adds : “ This confidential health assessment allows us to individually-tailor a wellness plan to guide you in the right direction .”
Care Close to Home
Dr . Seth notes that appointments are conveniently scheduled through the Deborah Specialty Physicians network in offices throughout Burlington and Ocean counties . “ This allows for care close to home , but if needed , the vast resources of the world-renowned Deborah Heart and Lung Center are readily available .”
“ I strongly urge all our first responders to call and get a screening . It could be the most important call you make .” For more information visit www . Demand Deborah . org or call 833-227-3996
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