Firefighters Face Higher Skin Cancer Risk. A Winston-Salem Hospital Offered A Free Screening
(WFMY Ben Briscoe) — Meredith Smith didn’t have to look far to find her motivation. Her husband is a firefighter. And as an oncology nurse, Smith knows firsthand the elevated cancer risks that come with the job — especially when it comes to skin cancer.
That’s why she’s teaming up with Novant Health to offer a free skin cancer screening event for firefighters and first responders on Monday, May 12, at the Derrick L. Davis Cancer Institute in Winston-Salem.
“They’re our heroes,” Smith said. “And we want to protect them from future instances of skin cancer and any type of cancer.”
Why Firefighters Are More at Risk
Firefighters face a 21% higher risk of skin cancer compared to the general population, according to Novant Health oncologist Dr. Andy Dothard. And they’re being diagnosed younger than ever — sometimes as early as age 35.
Part of the problem lies in exposure to carcinogens — both during and after the fire is out.
“The chemicals and substances they’re exposed to during fires often contain carcinogens,” Smith explained. “They can get in through the skin or be inhaled.”
Even their protective gear poses risks. Smith says many firefighter uniforms contain PFAS, chemicals that help make gear more water- and heat-resistant — but are also linked to cancer. When firefighters sweat in extreme heat, their pores open, making it easier for harmful substances to be absorbed.
And in the past, culture played a part, too.
“Years ago, dirty gear was a badge of honor. It meant you had experience,” Smith said. “Now we know that gear was covered in dangerous chemicals.”
Why Early Detection Saves Lives
Dr. Dothard says that identifying skin cancer early makes a major difference in survival rates.
“It’s much easier to treat and leads to better outcomes,” he said. “These events are super important — not just to save lives, but to improve quality of life by catching cancer sooner.”