January is Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to educating fire fighters about cancer prevention and providing support to those affected by occupational cancer.
This initiative, led by the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), addresses the leading cause of death among fire fighters: cancer linked to their profession.
The declaration of Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month in Canada came in June 2023 with the enactment of MP Sherry Romanado’s Bill C-224. This legislation also established the National Framework on Cancers Linked to Firefighting, introducing strategies to mitigate cancer risks within the profession.
This year’s campaign focuses on comprehensive strategies to reduce cancer risk throughout a fire fighter’s career. Topics include understanding legislative presumptions for cancer coverage, addressing reproductive cancers, providing behavioural health support for those facing a diagnosis, and empowering fire fighters to advocate for their health.
The IAFF will provide targeted education, best practices, and weekly calls to action throughout January. Success stories will also be highlighted to inspire and inform fire fighters about steps they can take to protect themselves.
“Our job is dangerous; every fire fighter knows we may one day sacrifice our own life in order to save another’s. But that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t do everything possible to make the profession safer," IAFF General President Edward Kelly emphasized. "Education is a critical tool in the fight against occupational cancer. That’s why the IAFF is committed to raising awareness this January about actions fire fighters can take to stay healthy and safe.”
The IAFF represents over 352,000 fire fighters, emergency medical workers, and rescue personnel across North America, advocating for safety and innovation in the fire and emergency services industry.
For more information about Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month, visit iaff.org/cancer-awareness-month.
