More than 40,000 firefighters across the U.S. have joined the National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer, a program led by the CDC’s National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). This makes the NFR the largest effort of its kind in the nation, dedicated to understanding and ultimately reducing cancer risks faced by those who respond to emergencies.
Understanding the Risks Firefighters Face
Firefighters routinely encounter hazardous substances—smoke, chemicals, and other toxins—while performing their duties. These exposures can significantly elevate their risk of developing certain types of cancer. The NFR aims to improve our understanding of these occupational cancer risks and inform strategies to better protect firefighters’ health.
The registry collects detailed information about firefighters’ work histories and links this data with state cancer registries. This comprehensive approach allows researchers to identify patterns and correlations between specific exposures and cancer diagnoses.
“This milestone represents more than just numbers. It demonstrates the fire service’s unwavering commitment to understanding and reducing work-related cancer,” said Kenny Fent, Ph.D., CIH, NFR Team Lead. “Every firefighter who joins the NFR plays a vital role in advancing knowledge to help protect the health of all who serve.”
Who Can Join the Registry?
Enrollment in the NFR is open to all U.S. firefighters, regardless of their employment status. This includes career firefighters, volunteer firefighters, active personnel, retirees, and individuals with or without a cancer diagnosis, and those in all specialties.
More information about the NFR is available here and firefighters can join here.
