Evaluation of Broccoli Seed and Sprout Extract for Detoxification of Carcinogens in Firefighters

This phase II trial tests how well broccoli seed and sprout extract (BSSE) also called Avmacol extra strength (ES) works to help break down (detoxification) some of the cancer-causing chemicals (carcinogens) that firefighters are exposed to in order to help protect cells from smoke damage. Firefighters are routinely exposed to carcinogens during the course of their daily duties particularly from smoke exposure arising from active fire rescue, structural or incidental firefighting or burning, as well as flashover training. Flashover training simulator has been specifically designed for observation and recognition of fire behavior from rollover to flashover by varying fuel loading and altering ventilation. The simulator contains the fire behavior prop with smoke coming out and air being drawn in. All fires, including those in flashover training, release toxic and carcinogenic substances. These substances, many of which are known carcinogens, increase the risk of cancer in firefighters. Several studies to date have demonstrated that firefighters are at an increased risk of developing various malignancies including melanoma, multiple myeloma, acute myeloid leukemia, prostate, kidney, brain, and respiratory tract cancers among others. Broccoli extract has the potential to effectively enhance detoxification. This study may help researchers learn how BSSE can help break down chemicals that firefighters are exposed to during flashover training to help protect their cells from smoke-damage and reduce cancer risk.