FFD implements advanced cancer screening for firefighters
Published on February 06, 2025
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. - The City of Fayetteville is taking proactive measures to protect the health and well-being of its firefighters by implementing a groundbreaking cancer screening as part of its annual physical examinations. This initiative comes in response to research from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) indicating firefighters have a 14% higher risk of dying from cancer compared to the general population.
NIOSH data also show that for certain types of cancer, firefighters face significantly elevated risks. These include:
- Testicular cancer – 2.02 times the risk
- Mesothelioma – 2.00 times the risk
- Multiple myeloma – 1.53 times the risk
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma – 1.51 times the risk
- Skin cancer – 1.39 times the risk
- Malignant melanoma – 1.31 times the risk
- Brain cancer – 1.31 times the risk
- Prostate cancer – 1.28 times the risk
- Colon cancer – 1.21 times the risk
- Leukemia – 1.14 times the risk
These findings underscore the importance of early detection, which greatly increases survivability rates. Battalion Chief John Bowen’s passing in 2022 was the first FFD firefighter’s death to be ruled a Line of Duty Death (LODD) due to occupational cancer. His loss and the memories of other FFD firefighters who have died from cancer in years past have galvanized the department’s commitment to enhanced cancer screening efforts.
“Every day, our firefighters put themselves in harm’s way to protect our community,” said Fayetteville Fire Chief, Kevin Dove. “By investing in advanced screening technology, we are taking critical steps to safeguard those who protect us daily.”
As part of this new initiative, FFD has introduced “The One Test,” a state-of-the-art blood test that checks for a panel of protein biomarkers potentially indicating early-stage cancer. Unlike genetic testing that predicts lifetime risk, “The One Test” pinpoints current biomarkers in the blood, offering a more immediate assessment of a firefighter’s cancer risk.
Cancer screening began last week on Jan. 29 and continued until Feb. 6 at Fayetteville Fire Station #9.
The city has allocated over $45,000 to fund this life-saving screening for local firefighters. This commitment exemplifies the City’s dedication to ensuring the safety and health of its public servants.
“Our firefighters are an integral part of our community’s safety,” said City Manager Douglas J. Hewett. “By providing the latest in cancer detection technology, we are investing in their health and future.”
The Fayetteville Fire Department is dedicated to serving and safeguarding the residents of Fayetteville through fire prevention, emergency response, and community education. With a focus on innovation, collaboration, and excellence, the FFD continually seeks to enhance firefighter safety and public well-being.
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