My experience covering emergency services in my journalism career has shown me that people working as firefighters and emergency services are some of the most physically-fit people I have observed as a group.  However, those working in fire & EMS fields are exposed to hazards that can be harmful to one’s health.

As a result, the City of Fishers has announced a special cancer screening process for Fire & EMS employees.

Below is the announcement, as issued by the City of Fishers:

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Fishers Fire and Emergency Services, Community Health Network and GRAIL have united to address the increased risk of cancer in firefighters. The partnership will provide Fishers’ fire men and women access to the Galleri test, an early detection cancer screen. The groundbreaking blood test can detect a signal for over 50 types of cancer before symptoms have appeared, including many that have no recommended screening. 141 department members, out of 155, are participating in the screening. 

Firefighters are at a higher risk of developing cancer due to carcinogen exposure in their line of work. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), firefighters are twice as likely to develop certain types of cancer compared to the general population. This increased risk is due to exposure to smoke, soot, and other chemicals during fires and other emergency incidents.

Early detection of cancer is crucial for effective treatment and increased chances of survival and the Galleri test added to recommended screenings, provides a proactive approach. 

Department Chief Steven Orusa said, “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our community. It is important we take care of them by providing access to the latest cancer screening technology. The Galleri test is an important tool in our efforts to protect the health and well-being of our firefighters, so they can continue to take care of our community.”

The tests are being provided to Fishers firefighters through a partnership with Community Health Network. Visit galleri.com to learn more and review Important Safety Information.

“This screening event is significant because firefighters have such a high risk when it comes to exposures, predisposing them to developing cancer throughout their lifetime.,” said Dr. Patrick McGill, Chief Transformation officer for Community Health Network.  “It also shows the power that partnerships can have in promoting healthier outcomes.”