Congress has approved legislation reauthorizing $5.5 million in annual funding for the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer through 2028.
The bill, which now awaits President Joe Biden’s signature, aims to continue data collection and research on cancer risks among firefighters.
The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer Act, originally passed in 2018, directs the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) to gather data to analyze cancer rates and risk factors among firefighters.
The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF), a longstanding advocate of the registry, supports its continuation.
“Cancer is the greatest threat fire fighters face. But we need accurate data to help us take on this deadly disease,” said Edward Kelly, IAFF General President.
The registry collects data on factors like exposure levels, geography, and demographics to help identify high-risk groups. This research also informs studies on the effectiveness of protective gear and cancer prevention policies.
Enrollment for the voluntary registry opened in April 2023. All U.S. firefighters, regardless of cancer status, are eligible to participate.
The collected data provides valuable insights into cancer risks and prevention, allowing researchers to assess long-term health trends.
NIOSH has worked to dispel misconceptions about the registry. Capt. Kenny Fent, Ph.D., CIH, manager of the Firefighter Health Program, recently addressed common myths to encourage greater participation.
The ongoing funding ensures that the registry can continue its mission to gather comprehensive data on firefighter health.
Researchers analyze the data to determine which populations face heightened cancer risks and evaluate the effectiveness of protective measures.
The registry’s findings could lead to enhanced protective equipment and more effective prevention strategies for firefighters nationwide.
Congress has passed a bill to reauthorize $5.5 million in annual funding for the National Firefighter Registry for Cancer through 2028.
The registry, first established in 2018, collects data to analyze cancer risks among firefighters and inform protective measures.
The IAFF supports the registry’s continuation, with President Edward Kelly highlighting the need for accurate data to combat cancer risks.
All U.S. firefighters are eligible to enroll in the voluntary registry, which opened in April 2023.
NIOSH continues to address misconceptions to encourage participation.
The registry’s research informs studies on risk factors and protective strategies, ensuring firefighters have access to improved safety measures in the future.
