"When toxic flame retardants burn — and they do burn — it creates a serious health risk for firefighters," Harold Schaitberger, the IAFF's general president, said. "There is significant scientific data that shows the association between firefighting, exposure to deadly toxins and cancer." by FireRescue1 Staff April 1, 2015

Seemingly conflicting results shows the difficulty of research and the need for more of it. After a review of the scientific literature, the National League of Cities issued a press release stating, "A study released today titled 'Assessing State Firefighter Cancer Presumption Laws And Current Firefighter Cancer Research,' found there is inadequate scientific research to determine a link between working as a firefighter and an elevated risk of contracting cancer." Sep 18, 2015 By Sara Jahnke

Logic predicts a decline in firefighter cancer, but what tomorrow's furniture is made of remains a wildcard. There is little doubt in the scientific literature that there is a relationship between firefighting and several types of a cancer.

While more research is needed into the connection between firefighting and cancer, there are things we can do in rehab to keep it at bay? The incidents of cancer are increasing and there appears to be a correlation between the work environment and the types of cancers that are prevalent in firefighters. The research is limited, and this white paper identifies more than 30 areas regarding cancer in the fire service where more research is needed. What role does rehab have in cancer prevention?