Today, many military firefighters face a quieter, long-term threat: cancer. Research shows these veterans experience higher rates of several cancers due to repeated exposure to smoke, toxic chemicals, and hazardous environments. Yet scientists still need more comprehensive data to fully understand these risks and how to prevent them.

The National Firefighter Registry for Cancer (NFR) represents an important step forward. A national registry exists, but military firefighters and veterans should not be overlooked. Earlier this year, the NFR surpassed 40,000 participants, becoming the largest firefighter cancer research cohort in the country. Yet with more than one million firefighters (civilian, military, volunteers) nationwide, researchers say the registry still needs far broader participation to provide the data needed to better understand occupational cancer risks. Concerns are growing about PFAS “forever chemicals” in firefighting foam and gear, making early data collection even more critical.

Cristina Johnson is a veteran advocate with the Asbestos Ships Organization, a nonprofit supporting veterans.