Fire fighter occupational cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty death in the fire service.
In 2025, nearly 80%* of IAFF member line-of-duty deaths were due to occupational cancer. In Canada, where most provinces and territories have robust presumptive laws, close to 94% of line-of-duty deaths among professional fire fighters are the result of occupational cancers. Canada recognized Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month in 2023 with the adoption of MP Sherry Romanado’s Bill C-224.
Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month is focused on increasing public understanding of occupational cancer in the fire service while equipping fire fighters with the information and tools they need to reduce risk.
In partnership, the IAFF and the Firefighter Cancer Support Network are committed to sharing prevention strategies, best practices, and resources that help protect members throughout their careers. By raising awareness and advancing education, this effort also supports stronger legislative action, including presumptive disability protections for fire fighters affected by job-related cancers.
Make sure to follow @IAFFofficial on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube, and X throughout January for more resources.

*79.4% of IAFF members honored at the IAFF Fallen Fire Fighter Memorial in September 2025 died of occupational cancer (247 of 311).