Health Risks for Firefighters: The Cancer Hidden Behind the "Hero" - Shocking Over 50% Increase in Skin and Kidney Cancer Mortality Rates

1. Introduction — The Quietly Burning "Second Fire"

"Even when the flames are out, the fire continues to burn inside the body" — such words are whispered among firefighters. The American Cancer Society (ACS) presented definitive data supporting this concern in a recent cohort study released on July 28. The study involved 473,386 men with no history of cancer as of 1982. Over 36 years of follow-up, it was shown that being a firefighter is linked to numerous cancer-related deaths.American Cancer Society MediaRoomASCO Post

2. Key Findings — 58% Increase in Skin Cancer, 40% Increase in Kidney Cancer

The analysis showed the highest increase in mortality rates for skin (hazard ratio 1.72) and kidney (1.39) cancers. Significant differences were observed in prostate, colon, and lung cancers for those with over 30 years of service, highlighting the impact of long-term exposure. Dr. Lauren Terrace, the lead author of the study, commented, "The risk was reinforced even in areas the IARC considered limited."American Cancer Society MediaRoomASCO Post

3. Why Are Firefighters More Prone to Cancer?

The factors include exposure to carcinogens such as benzene, asbestos, and PFAS-based flame retardants found in building materials, as well as repeated inhalation and skin absorption of soot at the scene. Delays in cleaning equipment and prolonged wearing of protective gear in high temperatures also amplify the risk.

4. Reactions on Social Media — Voices from the Field and Citizens

• ACS Official (@ACSNews)

  "New research shows a significant increase in skin and kidney cancer mortality rates among firefighters. Expanding access to screenings is essential."X (formerly Twitter)

• Health Media HealthDay

  "#FirefighterCancer is trending. Voices say 'The cost of saving lives is too high.'"X (formerly Twitter)

• Reddit/r/Firefighting

  "Even though equipment has evolved, the reality of losing comrades to cancer hasn't changed" — anger erupts over PFAS lawsuits and NIOSH staff cuts.Reddit

On social media, policy proposals such as "Public funding for screening costs" and "Mandating international standard cleaning facilities" were frequently suggested.

5. Actions on the Ground — Early Detection and Legal Battles

The New York City Fire Department (FDNY) will begin offering free skin cancer screenings in 2024, having already detected 78 suspicious lesions early.New York Post
Meanwhile, criticism is mounting over class-action lawsuits concerning PFAS-containing firefighting gear and the suspension of the U.S. "National Firefighter Registry for Cancer" in April 2025.Wikipedia

6. International Perspective — IARC Classification and European Response

In 2022, the IARC upgraded firefighters from "2A (probably carcinogenic)" to "Group 1 (sufficient evidence of carcinogenicity)." In response, the European Union is deliberating a roadmap for a complete ban on PFAS.

7. What Can Be Done — Recommendations

1. Systematic Measures: Cover regular cancer screenings with public insurance.

2. Equipment Measures: Introduce new PFAS-free materials and immediate on-site cleaning.

3. Educational Measures: Thoroughly educate young firefighters on risks and self-protection strategies.

4. Research Measures: Expand long-term epidemiological studies including women and volunteer firefighters.

8. Conclusion — To Bring "Heroes" Safely Home

Those who save lives in the flames may lose their own to cancer decades later — to prevent this tragedy from repeating, society as a whole needs to equip and establish systems to extinguish the "second fire."