Firefighter Cancer
The cancer resource page features news, information, videos, podcasts and feature articles about this massive health issue facing the fire service.
After Allentown Firefighter Jeff Tomczak died of pancreatic cancer, his wife and IAFF leaders urge legislators to fund comprehensive screenings, remove PFAS from gear and foam and pass bipartisan protections
The state is backing research into firefighting and cancer, citing 9/11-scale exposure concerns and developing stronger protections for crews battling wildfires near cities
After reporting on smoke-linked illnesses and pressure from lawmakers, the agency will stock and provide N95s for light use, while still barring masks during arduous work
Chief Dennis Compton was honored by the foundation for his leadership through critical moments for the foundation and the fire service
Despite drastic technological advances over the decades, firefighter PPE remains relatively unchanged
The Skellefteå Model focuses on dry initial contaminant reduction, amid other processes, to reduce firefighters’ exposure to toxins
Retired Syracuse Firefighter Tim Downes, a cancer survivor, has been working to implement the comprehensive screening for about seven years
The bill further protects female firefighters by adding breast cancer and ovarian cancer to the list of qualifying diseases
Open storage extends the life of agency investments in turnout gear and helps keep firefighters safer
White blood cells are more vulnerable to DNA damage, and their DNA repair mechanisms appear misaligned to deal with the damage
The proposed bill would also mandate health and occupational training for firefighters
A fundraiser for Vista Firefighter-Paramedic Andy Valenta, 33, who was diagnosed with metastatic melanoma, raised more than $80,000 in 3 days
The bill would direct federal agencies to develop training and best practices for fire departments nationwide to limit PFAS exposure
More importantly, what will you do to focus on cancer awareness and prevention throughout the year?
The FEMA grant-funded study will last for three years and examine occupational health risks specific to women in the fire service
Data linking exposures to fire incidents can be critical to helping firefighters get the cancer support they need
The new Columbus Division of Fire station includes a separate changing station to protect firefighters from carcinogens and an alarm system that reduces sleep interruptions
Study shows chemical exposure is higher while on-duty, and increased with the number of fires fought
The Clinton Fire Department hopes to train six more firefighters to perform swift-water rescues with the new equipment
The Waxahachie Fire Department is asking for prayers, support for the family of Lancaster Firefighter Brandon Peterson
Research has shown exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances can impact human immune systems, and may also impact antibody responses to vaccines
The Fiscal Year 2021 National Defense Authorization Act recommends additional research into PFAS in PPE and alternatives to PFAS foam
Zoneton Fire Protection District Chief Robert Orkies, 55, was a more than 36-year fire service veteran and had been diagnosed with cancer shortly before contracting the virus
How firefighters can limit exposure to diesel exhaust emissions and diesel particulate matter
Zoneton Fire Protection District Chief Rob Orkies was diagnosed with cancer shortly before he contracted the virus
Funds will be used for ongoing research to determine how to better protect volunteer firefighters from cancer-causing agents
Deputy Chief David Windrow relays his experience overcoming cancer and explains how leadership can support members during such a vulnerable time
How to develop a comprehensive firefighter rehab program and build your response team
Wellesley Firefighter Joanie Cullinan was awarded for her contributions to raising awareness about occupational cancer; the organization she volunteers with received a $5,000 donation from the foundation
Portage Station No. 2 includes gender-neutral locker and shower facilities, on-site training space and “clean” rooms to help prevent cross-contamination
In addition to one-time payments upon diagnosis, firefighters will also receive $12,000 per year for medical expenses
