Just because January—National Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month—has passed doesn’t mean we should stop caring about the risks firefighters face. February is National Cancer Prevention Month, making it the perfect time to continue taking action. Cancer prevention is important for everyone, but for firefighters, it’s an especially urgent issue. These brave men and women put their lives on the line to protect our communities, but in doing so, they face an invisible and serious threat—cancer.

The Link Between Firefighting and Cancer

Firefighters are regularly exposed to toxic chemicals, hazardous smoke, and carcinogens. When buildings burn, they release harmful substances like benzene, formaldehyde, and asbestos—all known to cause cancer. Even after the fire is out, dangerous contaminants can linger on their gear, leading to prolonged exposure.

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that firefighters have a 9% higher risk of being diagnosed with cancer and a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer than the general population (USFA).

In 2023, the International Association of Fire Fighters found that 72% of line-of-duty deaths among its members were caused by occupational cancer (IAFF).

Firefighters have an elevated risk for several types of cancer, including:

• Lung cancer from inhaling hazardous smoke
• Leukemia and lymphoma due to exposure to toxic chemicals
• Skin cancer from UV exposure and contact with contaminated materials
• Digestive cancers from ingesting toxins absorbed through gear or skin

For comparison, the cancer incidence rate for the U.S. general population is 440.5 per 100,000 men and women per year, with a cancer death rate of 146.0 per 100,000 (Cancer.gov).

How You Can Help Prevent Cancer

Firefighters face unique cancer risks. During National Cancer Prevention Month, consider these steps to reduce cancer risks for yourself and support those on the front lines:

1. Advocate for Firefighter Cancer Protection

• Support funding for cancer prevention initiatives in fire departments, including updated gear and proper decontamination facilities.
• Encourage departments to implement regular cancer screenings and health programs.
• Advocate for stronger fire safety codes to minimize exposure to hazardous materials.

2. Reduce Exposure to Carcinogens at Home

• Avoid burning plastics, treated wood, and synthetic materials, which release harmful chemicals.
• Regularly check and maintain smoke alarms to prevent house fires.
• Use non-toxic cleaning products and reduce exposure to harmful chemicals.

3. Prioritize a Healthy Lifestyle

• Quit smoking and avoid secondhand smoke.
• Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
• Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight.
• Stay up to date with medical check-ups and cancer screenings.

4. Support Firefighter Cancer Awareness Efforts

• Attend firefighter cancer awareness events or fundraisers.
• Donate to organizations that assist firefighters battling cancer.
• Share information about cancer risks in the firefighting profession to spread awareness.

Let’s Take Action Together

Firefighters risk their lives every day to protect us—now it’s time for us to help protect them. By raising awareness about their cancer risks and taking steps to reduce cancer in our own lives, we can all contribute to a healthier future.

This National Cancer Prevention Month, let’s honor our firefighters by committing to cancer prevention—for them, and for ourselves.