At Thursday’s Opening Ceremony Day 2 at FDIC International 2023 in Indianapolis, FDIC Education Director Chief David Rhodes announced the launch of the National Firefighter Registry (NFR) for Cancer.
Kenny Fent, Ph.D. CIH, the lead for the National Firefighter Registry, CDC/NIOSH/DFSE/FRB, said: “We are so excited to be here launching the National Firefighter Registry. Several years ago, Congress passed the Firefighter Cancer Registry Act after tireless advocacy from the fire service leaders you saw in the video and many others here today. Those early advocates knew we needed a nationwide program to better understand the link between firefighting and cancer. The NFR is the result of that effort, and today we are open for ALL firefighters to join! Whether you are career or volunteer, active or retired, and whether you have cancer or not, please consider enrolling in the NFR. Check out our Web site to learn more and come visit us at booth 543.”
Victor Stagnaro, managing director of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), said: “Too many names are being added to the firefighter memorial for occupational cancer. Enrolling in the NFR is one small way we can all be part of an effort to give our researchers tools to save the lives of our next generation of firefighters. The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and many other fire service organizations across the country are standing together to join the NFR. Please consider taking 30 minutes to enroll and help save the life of a firefighter.
Joe Schumacher, COO at Firefighters Cancer Support Network (FCSN), said: “As a three-time cancer survivor, I can tell you that there is no bigger punch to the gut than hearing the words ‘You have cancer.’ The National Firefighter Registry will provide the fire service and researchers the data needed so that we continue to learn how to keep firefighters healthy. My dream is that one day, the Firefighter Cancer Support Network will no longer be needed. Please help me realize my dream and sign up for the NFR today.”
