Cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters according to the Centers for Disease Control. To bring attention to this troubling statistic, the month of January has been designated Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month.
The Phoenix Fire Department in collaboration with city leadership and U.P.F.F.A. Local 493 are steadfast about keeping our firefighters healthy and supporting their longevity. In order to achieve this, the Phoenix Fire department puts an emphasis on the health and wellness of its first responders through a myriad of programs and resources.
The department conducts mandatory annual health screenings, issues the safest possible protective gear available, and provides supportive resources to empower firefighters to seek early cancer detection and treatment.
One of those resources includes comprehensive cancer screenings for all Phoenix first responders at Vincere Cancer Center.
https://vincerecancer.com/ . The program consists of comprehensive visits for Phoenix first responders to identify potential exposures to carcinogens on the job. In addition to discussing any risks the individual may have.
Sleep deprivation is another potential peril to firefighter's health and one that may cause cancer. According to a recent study at Harvard Medical School, almost 40% of firefighters suffer from sleep deprivation. The study demonstrated that sleep deficiency can be linked to cancer.
The Phoenix Fire Department has also addressed this issue. As the number of emergency dispatches continues to rise, busy firefighters now have an opportunity to rest more comfortably in between emergencies thanks to a generous donation of mattresses by Temper-Pedic. It is one more wellness tool that can be applied to our firefighter's health and welfare.
These are just a few of steps being taken to ensure our emergency responders have the most optimal resources available to protect them during their careers.
The Phoenix Fire Department is committed to offering the highest level of customer service to the community. Meanwhile, leadership of the Phoenix Fire Department and U.P.F.F.A. Local 493 continue to work hand in hand to protect firefighters long-term health.
