Firefighters With Higher Cardiorespiratory Fitness Demonstrate Lower Markers of Cardiovascular Disease Risk

ObjectiveHigh cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is associated with reduced markers of oxidative stress and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors; however, this relationship has not been elucidated in firefighters. The purpose of this study was to examine differences in markers of CVD risk between firefighters who have either high or low levels of CRF.MethodsForty-six firefighters participated in a maximal graded exercise test and a dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry scan and provided a fasted blood sample. VO2max values were categorized based on American College of Sports Medicine guidelines to establish high- and low-fitness groups.ResultsHigh fitness firefighters demonstrated significantly higher high-density lipoprotein cholesterol and lower markers of CVD risk: cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, insulin, homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance, C-reactive protein, and advanced oxidation protein products concentrations.ConclusionFirefighters are encouraged to maintain high CRF to reduce risk of CVD.