Which of the following is a common cardiac risk for firefighters?

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a common cardiac risk for firefighters due to the demanding nature of their work. Firefighters often operate in high-stress environments that can lead to elevated blood pressure levels. The physical demands of firefighting, including wearing heavy gear, working in extreme temperatures, and engaging in intense physical activity, contribute to this risk.

Moreover, the profession exposes firefighters to various stressors, including the trauma of emergency situations and irregular work hours, which can further exacerbate hypertension. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure is crucial for firefighters, as hypertension can lead to severe cardiovascular issues, including heart attacks and strokes, which can jeopardize their health and ability to perform their duties effectively.

While asthma, diabetes, and cholesterol levels also present health concerns, hypertension specifically stands out as a direct risk linked to the high-stress, physically demanding nature of firefighting.