Detection2024-01-18T08:14:15-08:00

DETECTION

HOW WE ARE HELPING

FIREFIGHTERS

We provide medically approved cancer screenings for the early detection of commonly occurring cancers in both active and retired firefighters.

SFFCPF strongly urges each and every active and retired firefighter to schedule an annual health check with their primary care physician. To aid in the early detection of the most common cancers in firefighters, we have compiled a list of screening tests we recommend you request to be included in your physical.

To view or download the Cancer Screening Recommendations click here.

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Volunteers with the San Francisco Firefighters Cancer Prevention Foundation, in partnership with medical professionals at UCSF, provide regular non-invasive cancer screenings of active and retired firefighters.

We test for bladder cancer that may also reveal cancer in the kidney and ureters. The tests detect blood and an elevated cell protein in the urine that may indicate the presence of cancer.

At intervals we also conduct FIT screenings for colorectal cancer. The FIT (fecal immunochemical test) tests for hidden blood in the stool, which can be an early sign of cancer.

These screenings are offered at no cost to the active or retired firefighter.

Firefighters are encouraged to test annually. Those with positive results are referred to SFFCPF’s Health Navigators for guidance in obtaining a full cancer workup.

The SFFCPF has led pioneering exposure studies of wildland firefighters in the immediate aftermath of the 2017 and 2018 Northern California wildfires. These studies alerted firefighters to the presence of elevated levels of heavy metals and other toxins in their bodies after deployment. These firefighters are directed to seek follow up with their primary care physicians.

Active firefighters are screened at the SFFD Division of Training. We reach out to retired firefighters and encourage them to be screened during their luncheons and social events that take place around the SF Bay Area. If unable to attend, any firefighter can request these tests from the Foundation and perform them at home.

Firefighters are encouraged to test annually. Those with positive results are referred to SFFCPF’s Health Navigators for guidance in obtaining a full cancer workup.

Please see the top of this page for information about the Galleri multi-cancer early detection screenings taking place in February 2023.

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