Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey has declared January 2025 as “Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month.” This initiative aims to increase awareness, prevention, and early detection of cancer among firefighters, who face elevated risks associated with the profession. The declaration acknowledges the troubling statistics surrounding cancer diagnoses in this group, including higher rates of late-stage diagnoses and increased mortality.
The state is emphasizing the significance of awareness campaigns as vital tools for cancer prevention, enhancing the health and well-being of firefighters. According to Jon Davine, the State Fire Marshal, nearly 1,400 firefighters took part in free cancer screenings through the Massachusetts Department of Fire Services in 2025, marking a record for the Firefighter Cancer Program. Davine stated, “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. The worst cancer diagnosis is a late one, so please take advantage of them.”
Data shows a marked increase in cancer screenings provided through this program from 2024 to 2025. Specifically, skin cancer screenings rose from 612 to 785, CT scans increased from 99 to 168, PSA blood tests from 44 to 160, ultrasounds from 91 to 255, and mammograms from two to nine. Davine attributes this surge to heightened awareness of available options, improved accessibility, and ongoing discussions within the fire service regarding the importance of early detection.
“This is a great result, and we want to see those numbers continue climbing,” he added. “Do it for yourself, do it for your family, or do it for your career – just do it!”
New Educational Initiatives and Legislative Support
In addition to awareness campaigns, the Massachusetts Firefighting Academy has introduced an instructor-led cancer awareness presentation, “Doing it Right: Reducing Cancer in the Fire Service,” in collaboration with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network. The updated program has reached approximately 600 recruits, along with 50 chiefs and senior officers, and around 230 firefighters of various ranks.
These initiatives are particularly timely given concerns about toxic chemicals, such as PFAS, commonly found in protective gear. PFAS can remain in the environment long after their initial use, posing serious health risks, particularly to firefighters. In August 2024, legislation was signed to eliminate these hazardous materials from firefighting equipment.
The state has implemented multiple initiatives to support firefighters, including the Massachusetts Firefighter Safety Equipment Grant Program. This program provides funding to replace essential gear, ensuring firefighters have access to safe and effective equipment. For instance, the Dracut Fire Department utilized a total of $22,296 over two funding cycles last year to replace outdated self-contained breathing apparatus units, contributing to enhanced emergency response capabilities.
In total, the state distributed $3 million statewide, benefitting 300 fire departments, including notable grants received by the Chelmsford Fire Department, which secured $25,000 in the first funding round and $12,150 in the second. The city of Lowell emerged as the highest recipient, receiving $50,000 in the first round and an additional $2,178 in the second.
Community Impact and Future Goals
The grant program, administered by the state Department of Fire Services, offers reimbursement for 135 types of eligible equipment, including turnout gear, ballistic protective equipment, and thermal imaging cameras. These upgrades not only improve firefighter safety but also ensure compliance with Occupational Safety and Health Administration and National Fire Protection Association safety standards.
Governor Healey expressed her commitment to supporting firefighters, 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.”
As Massachusetts embarks on the “Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month” initiative, the state aims to provide increased opportunities for cancer screening and equip firefighters with protective gear free of cancer-causing agents. This comprehensive approach underscores the commitment to safeguarding the health of those who selflessly serve their communities.
