Available at: https://digitalcommons.calpoly.edu/theses/3326
Date of Award
6-2026
Degree Name
MS in Nutrition
Department/Program
Food Science and Nutrition
College
College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences
Advisor
Anna Cahn
Advisor Department
Food Science and Nutrition
Advisor College
College of Agriculture, Food, and Environmental Sciences
Abstract
Background
Wildland firefighters experience substantial occupational demands that may influence nutrition, stress, sleep, and overall health. Despite increasing attention to firefighter wellness, limited research has examined nutrition-related behaviors and wellness program interests specifically among wildland firefighters.
Objective
The purpose of this study was to assess nutrition-related behaviors, stress, and wellness program interests among wildland firefighters and to examine relationships among key wellness variables.
Methods
A cross-sectional online survey was administered to wildland firefighters in the United States. Survey items assessed demographic characteristics, occupational workload, dietary behaviors, perceived stress, food insecurity, sleep, and interest in wellness programming. Composite variables were created for diet quality, stress, and food insecurity using recoded survey items. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics.
Results
A total of 76 participants completed the survey. Participants reported demanding wildfire-season work schedules, averaging approximately 15 work hours per day and nearly seven workdays per week. Mean BMI fell within the overweight classification range. Participants demonstrated moderate interest in several wellness programming topics, particularly exercise programs, health screenings, and nutrition education. Significant positive correlations were identified between BMI and self-described weight status as well as weight-related goals. The multiple linear regression model examining predictors of interest in nutrition education programming was not statistically significant.
Conclusions
Wildland firefighters demonstrated interest in wellness and nutrition-related programming despite demanding occupational schedules. Findings contribute to the limited literature examining nutrition, stress, and wellness behaviors among wildland firefighters and may help inform future occupational health and dietitian-led wellness interventions tailored to this population.