The Scottsdale City Council recently approved a new program designed to detect cancer earlier among members of the Scottsdale Fire Department that establishes a structured screening process focused on early detection and long-term health monitoring.

Cancer is the leading cause of death among firefighters nationwide, accounting for roughly one-third of firefighter fatalities. Occupational exposure to smoke, toxins and carcinogenic materials during fire suppression activities significantly increases cancer risk compared with the general population.

“Cancer remains one of the most serious long-term threats facing the fire service,” said Scottsdale Fire Chief Tom Shannon. “Modern fire environments expose firefighters to complex carcinogens despite advances in protective equipment and decontamination practices. Early detection through structured cancer surveillance is no longer optional. It is an executive responsibility.”

The program will offer advanced screening tools designed to detect cancer earlier than traditional medical guidelines allow and may include whole-body MRI imaging, lung CT scans, blood testing, skin exams and other evaluations tailored to the risks firefighters face.

The screenings will be conducted by Vincere Physicians Group, a Scottsdale-based medical provider with expertise in firefighter-related cancer detection and treatment coordination.

“Sadly, Scottsdale has experienced occupational losses tied to workplace exposures,” Shannon said. “Those losses are not abstract statistics. They are personal, departmental and permanent reminders that the risk is real.”

Funding for the program allows the department to screen eligible firefighters on a rotating schedule, with approximately one-third of personnel receiving screenings each year as part of a three-year cycle.