Weight gain among New York City first responders

Background and Objectives: More than 80% of current Fire Department of the City of New York (FDNY) workers are overweight or obese. Obesity is associated with adverse health outcomes and can also affect the ability of first responders to perform customary duties without compromising safety. A recent FDNY study found weight gain was associated with reduced lung function among newly hired first responders. The identification of risk factors for overweight/obesity may enable FDNY to develop interventions to combat obesity, thereby protecting the health and safety of workers and the larger community.

Methods: The study population consists of 2,573 firefighters and emergency medical service (EMS) workers hired between 1/1/2003 and 12/31/2006. Weight and other variables were obtained through a health evaluation given during the hiring process and annually thereafter. These evaluations include a physical exam and completion of a self-administered health questionnaire. Mixed effect models were used to predict weight change since hiring.

Results: At the time of hire, 23% of the cohort were obese (BMI 30 or greater). After 5 years of follow-up the proportion of obesity in the cohort increased to 33%. Preliminary findings suggest that 41% of those obese at follow up had a BMI less than 30 when hired.

Conclusion: Newly hired FDNY recruits are at significant risk of adverse effects due to their continued weight gain over time. FDNY firefighters and EMS workers should be encouraged to participate in fitness programs to combat obesity and to prevent related health outcomes.