Cancer
PINPOINTING THE EXACT CAUSE OF CANCER
Firefighters are exposed to multiple cancer-causing agents. Because of the multiple exposures and the multiple routes of exposure—they inhale carcinogens, and carcinogens are absorbed through the skin—it is also highly unlikely for firefighters to get only one type of cancer.
— Dr. Grace LeMasters
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FIRE SERVICE OCCUPATIONAL CANCER ALLIANCE
In January 2015, as a follow-up to TAMPA2, the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation invited major fire service organizations and occupational cancer-specific researchers to attend the Occupational Cancer in the Fire Service Strategy Meeting in Washington, D.C. The goals of the meeting were to review what was known related to firefighter cancers, develop a coordinated effort to reduce exposures, illnesses, and deaths related to cancer; and provide support for those affected by cancer. Through presentations, breakout group discussions and a goal of consensus, the group developed 12 recommendations to target their efforts. Since that time, the group continues to meet and develop new initiatives to help maximize resources related to cancer prevention.
VIEW FRCE CANCER RESOURCE KIT
AFTER THE DIAGNOSIS
Finding out you or someone you love has cancer can be devastating. Receiving this diagnosis can release ever-changing waves of emotion including fear, anger, depression and hopelessness. This is normal and you are not alone. The good news is there are numerous resources available, all developed to support you from the moment of diagnosis all the way through each phase of treatment.
FIREFIGHTER CANCER SUPPORT NETWORK (FCSN)
FCSN provides assistance to fire/EMS personnel and their family members who have been diagnosed with cancer. They provide rapid postdiagnosis resources followed by one-on-one support from fellow firefighters—and they will send you a FCSN signature toolbox free of charge. It contains critical resources to help you plan, communicate and take action with your doctors, your loved ones, and your brothers and sisters in the fire service. FCSN has more than 120 fire service mentors with personal experience facing many types of cancer. FCSN mentors can provide newly diagnosed fire/EMS members with valuable information about a particular type of cancer, share their own experiences with testing and treatments, and offer valuable insight into the recovery process.
NATIONAL FIREFIGHTER REGISTRY
Fighting fires is a dangerous profession, and the danger goes beyond the hazards of running into a burning building.
Numerous studies show that firefighters’ exposure on the fireground, where smoke and hazardous chemicals are released from burning materials, may increase their risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. While the association between firefighting and disease seems clear, more information about these health risks is needed—especially with regard to the higher risk of cancer among firefighters.
To better understand the link between on-the-job exposure to toxicants and cancer, Congress directed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create the National Firefighter Registry (NFR).
For more information: https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2023-140/
FIREFIGHTER PRESUMPTIVE CANCER LEGISLATION IN THE U.S.
This list of the 50 states is an updated and comprehensive database of all current
(defined as of September 1, 2022) firefighter cancer presumptive laws.
RESOURCES
Here you’ll find the latest information on the cancers impacting the lives of first responders. From articles and prevention tips to awareness training modules, PowerPoint presentations and screenings to workers’ compensation issues to national registries and organizations allied in support of firefighters with cancer, every resource you need is at your fingertips, in one place.
