IAFF & The American Cancer Society
The IAFF-ACS collaboration provides resources, tools, and prevention techniques to help protect fire fighters with the hope of preventing future disease while providing critical patient support services across the country to improve the quality of life for fire fighters living with cancer and advocating for improved access to care.
Behavioral Health
A cancer diagnosis impacts all areas of a person’s health, including behavioral health. Fire fighters coping with cancer may experience a broad range of emotions, thoughts and behavioral reactions. As an IAFF member, you do not have to face cancer alone. Below are behavioral health resources designed for fire fighters coping with cancer.
Cancer Screenings
Cancer screening tests are used before a person has any symptoms to help find cancer early, when it may be easier to treat. Regular screening tests can help find and treat certain types of precancers and cancers early before they can spread. There is no sure way to prevent cancer, but there are things a person can do to help lower their risk. The resources below outline recommendations for cancer screenings that can help find cancer early and lifestyle choices that can help reduce cancer risk.
Cancer Support
A cancer diagnosis impacts not only the person diagnosed, but also partners, family members, friends, and your brothers and sisters at the station. Take a look at the resources available from the American Cancer Society to assist those who want information about cancer, those diagnosed with cancer, and family members or caregivers who are supporting a person diagnosed with cancer.
Tap the “Go” button above to view a host of resources available for our brothers, sisters, and their caretakers.
Active Lifestyle
Regular physical activity is associated with a lower risk of several cancers. It can also help reduce cancer-related symptoms such as fatigue, anxiety, and depression. Plus, physical activity helps improve overall physical function, bone health, and quality of sleep. Oncology experts now view regular physical activity as critical to help prevent certain types of cancer and best meet the needs of people living with cancer. These resources aim to share strategies and practical tips to help ANYONE become more physically active while also serving as a resource to highlight the latest physical activity recommendations to help reduce cancer risk and manage cancer symptoms.
Nutrition
Following a healthy eating pattern throughout life can help reduce the risk of several types of cancer. These resources highlight tips for incorporating choices and changes to help achieve or maintain a healthy diet.
Sharable Information
The following resources are designed for IAFF Locals to share with their members to promote the benefits provided by the IAFF-ACS partnership.
Canadian Cancer Society
The Canadian Cancer Society offers a nationwide support system for people with cancer and their family, friends, and caregivers. We’re here to help answer your questions and support you whether you’re newly diagnosed, caring for a loved one, or concerned about your own cancer risk. Access our free programs and services that can help you manage life with cancer, including our information resources, our helpline, our supportive online community, and much more.