In this engaging presentation, Dr. Ron Raab, PhD. will elaborate on how exposure to Per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and other carcinogens is one of the rising causes of cancer among firefighters today. The chemical PFAS has been used to construct personal protective structural firefighter gear throughout history. During this lecture, individuals will be educated on all known and unknown information on PFAS chemicals and their future role in the fire service.
Dr. Ron Raab is a professor at James Madison University, teaching courses in biotechnology and awareness and understanding of WMDs. Raab serves as a regional HazMat responder and educator for the Harrisonburg Fire Department and Rockingham County in Virginia. He also is a volunteer firefighter. In addition, he provides instruction and training for National Guard Civil Support Teams. Prior to joining JMU, Raab spent 15 years in the biotech industry as a research scientist at IDEC Pharmaceuticals and Affymax Research Institute.