Albany Fire Department Hosts Cancer Screenings for Firefighters

ALBANY, N.Y. (NEWS10) -- The Albany Fire Department is addressing a critical yet often-overlooked health risk for its firefighters by offering specialized screenings for esophageal cancer. These screenings, available to both active and retired firefighters, are being held at the Albany Fire Department headquarters from Wednesday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The test itself is quick and non-invasive. Firefighters swallow a small, pill-sized device that scrapes cells from the esophagus. This sample is then sent for DNA testing, with results that can reveal early signs of pre-cancerous cells. Michael Lautersack, representing Lucid, the company behind the testing device, explained, “It gives people an opportunity to get home and spend time with their families...and just put their lives on a completely different trajectory if we identify this cancer.”

Fire Chief Joseph Gregory emphasized the importance of early detection, noting that firefighters are 62% more likely to develop esophageal cancer and 39% more likely to die from it than the general population. “Firefighting is a dangerous career, and one of the risks we often overlook is cancer,” Gregory said. “Early screenings have helped some of our members catch it in time for effective treatment, changing lives dramatically.”

Retired firefighters, who may not have had the same protective gear as today’s crews, face an even greater risk. David Scalisi, a former lieutenant with the department who recently completed the test, shared his experience: “It’s painless,” he noted, encouraging others to take advantage of the opportunity. “It’s peace of mind—one less thing to worry about.”

Gina Hill, a nurse who administered the tests today, highlighted the necessity of these screenings: “Firefighters face both physical and inhalation dangers, putting them at much higher risk. Early detection means they can get treatment and continue doing their jobs, all while being there for their families.”

The Albany Fire Department aims for these screenings to provide invaluable peace of mind and potentially life-saving interventions for those who put their lives on the line daily.