Denton, TX — An eight-year partnership between the Denton Fire Department and Texas Woman’s University is giving firefighters a more comprehensive look at their health while providing TWU students with hands-on experience and data for medical research.
Firefighters who participate at TWU undergo annual health and wellness evaluations that go beyond a standard physical. Testing includes DEXA scans to measure body composition, laboratory testing and individual reviews of results with healthcare professionals.
TWU faculty use the information to identify potential cardiometabolic health concerns, including indicators associated with diabetes, heart disease and insulin resistance, with an emphasis on lifestyle changes and early intervention.
According to Denton Fire Department Safety & Wellness Battalion Chief and PIO David Boots, 177 firefighters completed TWU physicals this year. He said 14% improved their physical results compared with last year, while 27% improved on the wellness portion.
More than 70% of Denton firefighters are choosing TWU for their annual physicals, according to the department.
The partnership also benefits TWU students. Faculty said doctoral students are using data collected through the program for research, including work toward their Ph.D.s and efforts to publish findings on long-term health trends.
The goal, according to the department, extends beyond keeping firefighters healthy while they are on the job — it is also aimed at helping them remain healthy into retirement.