Cancer - IAFF

Sep 26, 2025
Tucson fire fighters secure cancer coverage after long battle

City Council approves workers’ comp for fire fighters with adenocarcinoma after statewide clarification of cancer law.

Cancer

Labor Rights

Labor Wins

news
Sep 10, 2025
9/11 responders face a growing death toll and healthcare crisis

Thousands of first responders still suffer from Sept. 11-related cancer and chronic illness. The program they rely on now faces a funding crisis, and the IAFF is urging Congress to act before it’s too late.

Cancer

Disaster Response

PFAS

news
Sep 9, 2025
FDNY retiree’s kidney donation leads to 9/11 cancer diagnosis

Retired Lt. Joe Sesack discovered stage four pancreatic cancer during donor screening, underscoring the health risks fire fighters still face from Ground Zero exposure.

Cancer

Giving Back

news
Aug 29, 2025
Illinois bans PFAS in fire fighter gear with new law

The Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois built bipartisan support to protect fire fighters from toxic chemicals in turnout gear.

Cancer

Legislation – US

PFAS

news
Aug 22, 2025
Testing exposes PFAS in gear sold as ‘PFAS-free’

Analysis of gear purchased by Quincy, MA, showed concerning levels of the carcinogen, underscoring the IAFF’s call for vigilance and independent testing – regardless of manufacturer claims.

Cancer

Occupational Safety

PFAS

news
Jul 9, 2025
Historic wins on cancer coverage in PEI and Northwest Territories

Canada

Cancer

Labor Wins

Legislation – Canada

news
Jun 26, 2025
Families urge Congress to recognize occupational cancer deaths as Line of Duty

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act would include occupational cancer as part of the federal government’s PSOB program. It’s currently under consideration in the U.S. House and Senate.

Cancer

Labor Rights

Legislation – US

PFAS

news
Jun 26, 2025
Cancer care program for fire fighters now available nationwide

Direct Connect for Firefighters started in Massachusetts as a lifeline for members with cancer. It’s now available to fire fighters across the United States.

Cancer

news
Jun 24, 2025
Iowa fire fighters secure major presumptive cancer coverage expansion

A bill to make all cancer diagnoses presumptive for fire fighters enjoyed nearly unanimous support thanks to the fierce advocacy of Iowa’s professional fire fighters.

Cancer

Legislation – US

news
Jun 13, 2025
DeSantis signs sweeping safety protections for fire fighters

Surrounded by fire fighters in Palm Beach Gardens, the governor credited union advocacy for securing one of the strongest occupational safety laws in Florida history.

Cancer

Legislation – US

PFAS

news