100 Tyneside firefighters have been tested for cancer as a pioneering health project continues.

A project commissioned by the Fire Brigades Union (FBU) began in Newcastle this February when 15 local firefighters volunteered to take part in research led by the University of Central Lancashire. The idea is to monitor lifesaving emergency service workers for signs of diseases including cancer - amid reports showing firefighters have a hugely elevated risk of falling ill.

The idea is to test blood and urine samples of the firefighters for "biomarkers" suggestive of early stage cancer or other illnesses or toxic chemicals. Now, more than 1,000 firefighters have taken part in the study.

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Studies recently published have shown that instances of cancer among UK firefighters aged 35-39 could be up to 323% higher than in the general population. The research also found that firefighters face higher mortality rates from cancers, heart attacks and strokes. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also announced that "occupational exposure as a firefighter is carcinogenic".

FBU Tyne and Wear brigade secretary Wayne Anderson said: "Firefighters in the North East are proud to have led the way in this vital firefighter cancer research. We launched the testing in Newcastle last February, and since then over 1,000 firefighters have taken part across the UK.

“The University of Central Lancashire team tested 15 firefighters here in February and are now able to return to test over 100, with thanks to the ongoing support of Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue service. It’s a real testament to the dedication of firefighters and everyone involved. We’ve shown what can be done. Now we need regular health monitoring for every UK firefighter."

The Tyne and Wear Fire Rescue Service has supported the work and is passionate about working to protect firefighters from serious illness. However, the FBU has called on the Government and fire service employers to act.

Riccardo la Torre, FBU national officer said: "The UK is decades behind the rest of the world when it comes to protecting firefighters from toxic contaminants and occupational cancers. The government and fire service employers have refused to act for far too long.

"Despite knowing that firefighters are at risk from rare cancers, and this occupational risk now being confirmed by the world health organisation, nowhere near enough has been done to make sure firefighters receive early diagnosis and treatment.

“Firefighters have made this research project possible through their union, and the results will contribute to our knowledge of this issue and help save firefighter lives. It’s already all too clear that we need urgent action and bosses must take responsibility. We thank those fire services that have been supportive of this life saving project and urge those that aren’t to get on board."