Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared January 2025 as “Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month” to enhance awareness, prevention, and early detection of cancer among firefighters. This initiative acknowledges the heightened risk firefighters face in developing cancer earlier in life, receiving late diagnoses, and experiencing higher mortality rates compared to the general population. Through this month-long campaign, the state emphasizes the importance of awareness initiatives in protecting the health and well-being of these first responders.
In a significant move to promote cancer prevention, State Fire Marshal Jon Davine reported that nearly 1,400 firefighters took advantage of free cancer screenings through the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services (DFS) in 2025. This figure marks a record participation rate in the DFS Firefighter Cancer Program. “Whether you’re a call, volunteer or career firefighter, active duty or retired, these programs are available at no cost to you or your department,” Davine stated. He further stressed that early detection is crucial, urging firefighters to utilize these resources.
The increase in screenings from 2024 to 2025 highlights the program’s success. Skin cancer screenings rose sharply from 612 to 785, while CT scans increased from 99 to 168. PSA blood tests saw a jump from 44 to 160, and ultrasounds grew from 91 to 255. Mammograms, though fewer in number, also increased from two to nine. Davine attributes this surge to improved awareness and accessibility, as well as more discussions about the importance of early detection within the firefighting community. “Whatever the reason, it’s a great result, and we want to see those numbers continue climbing,” he added.
New Initiatives and Legislative Efforts
To further bolster cancer prevention efforts, the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy has introduced a new instructor-led presentation, “Doing it Right: Reducing Cancer in the Fire Service,” in collaboration with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. This updated program focuses on cancer prevention best practices and has already reached approximately 600 recruits, 50 chiefs and senior officers, and around 230 firefighters of various ranks.
A central focus of these awareness campaigns is the hazard posed by toxic chemicals known as PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), which are linked to cancer. These substances remain in the environment long after their initial use and are prevalent in everyday products, making many individuals vulnerable. Firefighters are particularly at risk, as PFAS have been detected in the protective gear designed to safeguard them. In response, legislation signed by Governor Healey in August 2024 aims to eliminate these harmful materials from firefighters’ equipment.
In addition to awareness campaigns and legislation, the state offers support through the Massachusetts Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program, which provides funding to replace essential gear. The Dracut Fire Department, for instance, received a combined total of $22,296 over two funding cycles last year to upgrade aging self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) units. This funding, part of a larger $3 million statewide initiative, enhances emergency-response capabilities and ensures compliance with safety standards.
In total, 300 fire departments across the state benefited from this round of funding. Notable awards included $25,000 for the Chelmsford Fire Department and $50,000 for Lowell, which received funds based on the number of residents served. Other departments receiving significant grants included Billerica ($18,112.81) and Groton ($18,935).
Commitment to First Responders
The Massachusetts Department of Fire Services administers the grant program, which reimburses the purchase of 135 types of eligible equipment, including turnout gear and thermal imaging cameras. Governor Healey emphasized the importance of these grants, stating, “These grants will help firefighters protect themselves from injury and illness, rescue people in danger, and keep our most vulnerable residents safe from fires and other hazards at home.”
The state’s commitment to increasing cancer screening opportunities and providing firefighters with advanced, safe equipment is a crucial step in supporting those who selflessly respond to emergencies. By prioritizing the health and safety of firefighters, Massachusetts aims to reduce the incidence of cancer within this vital profession.
