On February 28, 2020, Senator Bob Menendez and Congressman Bill Pascrell announced the launch of the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer. This registry is a critical step towards protecting the health and well-being of firefighters who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe.
Firefighters are exposed to a wide range of toxins and carcinogens in the line of duty, from smoke and chemicals to asbestos and diesel exhaust. As a result, they have a significantly higher risk of developing cancer than the general population. In fact, studies have shown that firefighters are 9% more likely to be diagnosed with cancer and 14% more likely to die from cancer than the average person.
Despite these alarming statistics, there has been a lack of comprehensive data on the incidence and prevalence of cancer among firefighters. This is where the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer comes in. The registry will collect and analyze data on firefighters who have been diagnosed with cancer, including information on their age, gender, race, ethnicity, job title, and type of cancer.
By gathering this information, researchers will be able to identify patterns and trends in cancer rates among firefighters. This will help us better understand the causes of firefighter cancer and develop strategies to prevent it. It will also provide firefighters with valuable information about their own health risks and help them make informed decisions about their careers.
The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer is a collaborative effort between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). It was established as part of the Firefighter Cancer Registry Act, which was signed into law by President Trump in July 2018.
The registry is voluntary and confidential, meaning that firefighters can choose whether or not to participate and their personal information will be kept private. Firefighters who have been diagnosed with cancer are encouraged to register online or by phone.
In addition to collecting data, the registry will also provide resources and support to firefighters and their families. This includes information on cancer prevention, screening, and treatment, as well as access to counseling and other services.
The launch of the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer is a major milestone in the fight against firefighter cancer. It represents a significant investment in the health and well-being of those who risk their lives to protect our communities. With this registry, we can begin to address the serious health risks that firefighters face and work towards a future where they can do their jobs safely and without fear of developing cancer.
