What is the Firefighter Cancer Initiative at Sylvester?

The Firefighter Cancer Initiative (FCI) at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is dedicated to researching cancer risks in firefighters and advocating for their care, developing tests like the PFA swab test.

How does the new PFA swab test work for firefighters?

The PFA swab test allows for the detection and quantification of 'forever chemicals' (PFAs) found in firefighter gear, helping to identify potential cancer risks without damaging the equipment.

What are 'forever chemicals' and why are they a risk to firefighters?

'Forever chemicals,' or PFAs, are persistent substances found in many materials that firefighters are exposed to, and they have been linked to an increased risk of several types of cancer.

Home / Health / Firefighter Cancer: New Test Detects 'Forever Chemicals'

Firefighter Cancer: New Test Detects 'Forever Chemicals'

9 Jan

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Summary

Nearly 80% of firefighter deaths stem from cancer.
A new swab test identifies harmful 'forever chemicals' in gear.
The test offers hope for reducing cancer risk in future firefighters.

Firefighter Cancer: New Test Detects 'Forever Chemicals'

Firefighters face a stark reality: nearly 80% of their line-of-duty fatalities are attributed to cancer, according to the International Association of Fire Fighters. CBS News Miami has extensively covered this issue, and now, the Firefighter Cancer Initiative (FCI) at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is developing innovative solutions. A novel swab test is showing promising results for identifying PFAs, commonly known as 'forever chemicals,' which are pervasive in the environment and linked to various cancers.

These 'forever chemicals' are resistant to degradation and are found in numerous materials firefighters encounter daily. Dr. Erin Kobetz, principal investigator at the FCI, explained that the new test allows for the detection and quantification of PFAs in gear, a critical step in understanding their link to increased cancer rates. Beyond PFAs, the FCI also investigates other threats like poly aromatic hydrocarbons found in soot and smoke, further contributing to the understanding of cancer onset and progression in firefighters.