Week 2: Scientific Research Related to Occupational Cancer
Now that we have a better understanding of cancer in the fire service, we will use this week to explore scientific research that identifies the link between occupational exposures and cancer rates among firefighters. Additionally, this week looks at research on screening for cancer and exposure routes.
Here’s what you can do to get the most out of Week 2! We recommend taking one day to commit to a safety stand down. During this safety stand down you should present Module #2 PowerPoint presentation addressing scientific research related to occupational cancer. This is a 29-slide presentation reviewing the results from 4 key firefighter-cancer research projects. Along with this week’s safety stand down you will be provided with infographics, multiple training briefs, and other helpful resources.
- Personal Story: Boston FD’s Glenn Preston Video (10-minute runtime)
This is the story of our brother Glenn Preston of the Boston Fire Department who was diagnosed with occupational cancer at age 39. - Research Study: Cancer Risk Among Firefighters: Review and Metanalysis of 32 Studies by Dr. Grace LeMasters
- The results of this research confirm previous findings of an elevated risk for multiple myeloma among fire fighters. In addition, a probable association with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, prostate and testicular cancer was demonstrated.
- Educational Presentation #2: Scientific Research Related to Occupational Cancer
This is a 29–slide PowerPoint presentation reviewing the results from four key fire fighter cancer research projects.
Note: Make sure you view the presentation in “presenter mode” to capture the instructor notes for the slides.
- Survivor Story:Lonnie Mitteis / Grand Island, NE Local 647
- Leadership/Survivorship Study: Impact of Organizational-Level Factors on Cancer Screening Activities in Fire Departments
A cross-sectional study from the Sylvester Firefighter Cancer Initiative / Alberto J. Caban-Martinez - NFORS Tracker App: Following fire activities, exposure reporting is necessary to document exposures that can lead to occupational diseases and cancer. The National Fire Operations Reporting System (NFORS) Exposure Tracker is available as an app for fire fighters, paramedics or officers to log exposure and incident details in a private, encrypted and secure online environment. The information gathered will help researchers better understand toxic exposures on the fire scene and develop new treatments and prevention protocols for occupational diseases, including cancer. Download the NFORS Exposure Tracker App by going to the app store on your mobile device.
- Factsheets:
- Social Media Infographics:
