Fishers Fire and Emergency Services, Community Health Network, and GRAIL have united to address the increased risk of cancer in firefighters.
The partnership will provide Fishers’ fire men and women access to the Galleri test, an early detection cancer screen. The groundbreaking blood test can detect a signal for over 50 types of cancer before symptoms have appeared, including many that have no recommended screening. A total of 141 Fishers Fire Department members out of 155 are participating in the screening.
Firefighters are at a higher risk of developing cancer due to carcinogen exposure in their line of work. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), firefighters are twice as likely to develop certain types of cancer compared to the general population. This increased risk is due to exposure to smoke, soot, and other chemicals during fires and other emergency incidents.
Early detection of cancer is crucial for effective treatment and increased chances of survival. The Galleri test being added to recommended screenings provides a proactive approach.
“Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to protect our community,” Fishers Fire Department Chief Steven Orusa said. “It is important we take care of them by providing access to the latest cancer screening technology. The Galleri test is an important tool in our efforts to protect the health and well-being of our firefighters, so they can continue to take care of our community.”
The tests are being provided to Fishers firefighters through a partnership with Community Health Network. Visit galleri.com to learn more and review important safety information.
“This screening event is significant because firefighters have such a high risk when it comes to exposures, predisposing them to developing cancer throughout their lifetime,” said Dr. Patrick McGill, Chief Transformation Officer for Community Health Network. “It also shows the power that partnerships can have in promoting healthier outcomes.”