Brothers and Sisters,

We have a special opportunity for early detection screening for esophageal pre-cancer — a screening that is non-invasive, covered with zero out-of-pocket cost to you, and specifically targeted toward firefighters.

Why This Matters to Us

Firefighters face significantly elevated cancer risks due to our occupation. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies firefighting as a Group 1 carcinogen. According to NIOSH data, we have a 62% increased risk of developing esophageal adenocarcinoma and a 39% increased risk of dying from it. The Firefighter Cancer Support Network reports an even higher 80% increased risk of developing this cancer. These numbers are sobering, but early detection can change the outcome.

How to Get Screened

To qualify and participate, please complete the brief screening questionnaire linked on this page. The form includes a short overview of why this screening is so important and asks questions based on Highmark's Risk Factor criteria. Completing it is the first step toward getting screened.

Important financial details:

• There is no out-of-pocket cost for the test.
• Lucid Diagnostics will submit a claim to insurance, but you have zero financial responsibility — even if insurance denies the claim or doesn't cover the full cost. This guarantee will be provided in writing for every firefighter screened.

A Message from Brother Steve Dorsey, IAFF Local 734

Brother Steve Dorsey, who has been open about his battle with esophageal cancer, strongly supports this effort and wants to personally encourage every at-risk member to participate:

"It will never happen to Me" — yes, those famous words. The truth is, most of us will be diagnosed with cancer at some point, while active, or after retirement. My cancer, Esophageal, is the fastest growing cancer diagnosis in the United States, and the second most deadly, with a 5-year survival rate of 20% — dropping to 5% for a Stage IV diagnosis.

The EsoGuard test is designed to detect changes in the cells lining the esophagus early, before cancer cells form, so you can be treated BEFORE you are at risk. It is one of only a few tests that can PREVENT cancer. It is non-invasive, easily performed by trained technicians, and results are available within a few weeks. I wish that the EsoGuard test was known and available to me... I whole-heartedly encourage every member of the BCFD to get tested. You never know."

Retirees — This Includes You

Retirees, we especially want you to participate. Many of you worked during eras with far less protective equipment and safety standards. You also typically meet the age-related risk factors. For those over 65, this test is covered by Medicare as a once-in-a-lifetime screening. We can organize a hybrid event for active members and retirees together.

Next Steps

Please complete the screening questionnaire as soon as possible so we can gauge interest and schedule accordingly. Lucid Diagnostics typically needs about 4 weeks of lead time. Once dates are confirmed, they will be sent out to the membership.

This is a rare opportunity to take proactive control of your health with a test that could literally save your life. If you have any questions, please reach out to President Fannon directly.

In Solidarity,
Josh Fannon, President
IAFF Local 964 Baltimore Fire Officers