Federal Firefighter Cancer Detection and Prevention Act of 2023

Federal Firefighter Cancer Detection and Prevention Act of 2023

This bill requires the Department of Defense (DOD) to provide its firefighters with medical testing and related services to detect, document, and prevent certain cancers. DOD firefighters may opt out of such testing or services.

DOD must document certain information related to the offered testing and services, but must ensure personally identifiable information is removed prior to analyzing the information.

DOD may share data with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to increase the knowledge and understanding of cancer occurrences among firefighters.

Bill 118 hr 2852, also known as the Federal Firefighter Cancer Detection and Prevention Act of 2023, aims to address the increased risk of cancer among firefighters by providing resources for early detection and prevention. The bill recognizes that firefighters are exposed to harmful toxins and carcinogens while on duty, putting them at a higher risk for developing cancer.

The key provisions of the bill include establishing a grant program to fund cancer screenings for firefighters, as well as research into the link between firefighting and cancer. The bill also requires the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) to develop guidelines for reducing firefighters' exposure to cancer-causing agents.

Additionally, the bill calls for the creation of a national firefighter cancer registry to track and monitor cancer rates among firefighters. This registry will help researchers better understand the impact of firefighting on cancer risk and develop strategies for prevention. Overall, the Federal Firefighter Cancer Detection and Prevention Act of 2023 aims to support the health and well-being of firefighters by providing them with the resources and tools they need to detect and prevent cancer. By addressing this important issue, the bill seeks to improve the overall health and safety of the firefighting community.