Firefighters sue over protective gear, alleging it made them sick: "I just couldn't stay on the job"

There is concern among firefighters nationwide about a potential on-the-job hazard they say they face. Cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters — and there's a fresh theory about why.

Many in the firefighting community believe that toxins are not only present in the fires they fight, but also in their turnout gear. Dozens of firefighters filed lawsuits this week alleging that the gear they wear — designed to protect them from fires — is making them sick.

The lawsuits claim the chemicals used to make their gear resistant to flames, water and oil carry a hidden danger that can cause devastating illness.