The National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer has grown to more than 40,000 participating fire fighters, making it the largest cohort study focused on fire fighter cancer.
The registry was created through IAFF advocacy and authorized by Congress in 2018 to address one of the most urgent health threats facing fire fighters. It is administered by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and is open to all U.S. fire fighters – with or without a cancer diagnosis.
“We know the toll cancer is taking on the fire service,” General President Edward Kelly said. “What we need now is the data to help us end this epidemic. The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer is an important part of that.”
The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer Act was passed in 2018 and reauthorized in December 2024 for $5.5 million annually through 2028. The NFR tracks fire fighter cancer diagnoses, evaluates occupational exposures and examines how cancer risks change over time – data that can inform prevention strategies, protective equipment standards, and public policy.
“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 and the NFR for Cancer Team Lead. “Every fire fighter who joins the NFR for Cancer plays a vital role in advancing knowledge to help protect the health of all who serve.”
Participation is voluntary and confidential. IAFF members are encouraged to enroll to ensure their experiences are reflected in the data that will shape the future of fire fighter health protections.
Register or learn more here.
