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Firefighters from Caddo and Bossier parishes now have access to free annual physicals and cancer screenings through a new state law. Willis Knighton is partnering with local fire districts and cities on the new health initiative. CEO Jaf Fielder says firefighters are 14-percent more likely to develop cancer because of their job than any other occupation.
“Anytime they go into a fire they are facing hazardous materials, and a lot of these materials that are burning in buildings or homes when they go in have cancer causing byproducts which could lead to increased risk of developing cancer in the future.”
This program benefits 1,500 active and retired firefighters, covering the $1,300 cost per participant through hospital donations. Fielder says the initiative aligns with a state law passed earlier this year requiring local governments to provide no-cost cancer screenings for full-time and retired firefighters, effective in 2025.
“We felt like partnering with these fire departments to make these screenings available to firefighters was right in line with our mission.”
Fielder emphasized the importance of addressing these hidden dangers firefighters face while serving their communities.
“Our philosophy has always been, Our first responders can’t take care of us unless we take care of them. So, I can’t think of a better program than this new fire fighter initiative that supports our mission and our commitment to our local communities.”
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