The stress of firefighting can unleash an inflammatory response that puts individuals at risk of poor health with repeated exposure, Australian researchers warn.

In a novel study, researchers tested the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines among 38 volunteer bush firefighters after a 12-hour shift, finding interleukin-6 and interleukin-8 were significantly increased.

In addition, the anti-inflammatory cytokine interleukin-10 was decreased.

The authors, from Deakin University, Geelong, said the study, conducted during the 2009 Black Saturday disaster, illustrated the physiological stress firefighters experienced in hot, smoky and physically demanding conditions.