Bill > H5037

This resolution proclaims January 2025 as "Firefighter Cancer Awareness Month" in Rhode Island, highlighting the significant health risks faced by firefighters. The resolution emphasizes that occupational cancer has become the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths among firefighters, with 63 percent of firefighters added to the International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF) Memorial in 2023 dying from cancer. According to research by the CDC/National Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (NIOSH), firefighters have a nine percent higher risk of cancer diagnosis and a fourteen percent higher risk of cancer death compared to the general population. The resolution details specific cancer risks, including firefighters being more likely to develop testicular cancer (2.02 times higher), mesothelioma (2 times higher), and various other cancer types at elevated rates. The document acknowledges firefighters as dedicated public safety professionals who risk their lives to protect others and calls for support and resources to reduce their cancer risks. Additionally, the resolution directs the Secretary of State to transmit a certified copy of the resolution to the IAFF, demonstrating official recognition of this critical health issue.

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