ASPO Abstracts
Code TOM: A Targeted Approach to Reduce the Disparity of Cancer in Firefighters Through Education and Prevention
Category: Cancer Health Disparities
Conference Year: 2019
Abstract Body:
PurposeCode TOM is a firefighter education and screening program created to reduce the disparity of cancer incidence and mortality in members of the fire service by improving awareness of risks, signs, symptoms and access to screening.BackgroundResearch published by the CDC demonstrates firefighters experience an overall 14% greater risk of a cancer diagnosis than the general population (Daniels, R., et al). Initial research indicates occupational exposure to carcinogens and cultural traditions of improper decontamination post-exposure are believed to be significant contributors to this increased risk.MethodsCode TOM curriculum stemmed from the CDC study identifying the most common cancer tumor sites in firefighters. Education includes general cancer information, risk factors, signs and symptoms, and screening options for 9 most common diagnosis in firefighters. Code TOM also promotes the importance of establishing open dialogue about cancer screenings with a PCP, giving examples of how to start and continue the conversation. Code TOM concludes with routing firefighters to local free cancer screening opportunities, and referrals for additional support programs as needed, such as genetic counseling and tobacco cessation. Launched in June 2017, the program has been administered to ~1,545 firefighters across North Carolina, in urban and rural communities. The majority of participants were male (n=1344), paid/career firefighters (n=1190), and insured (n= 1302). ResultsParticipants completed pre/post session testing. The average score for pre-test was 82%, and post-test scores averaged 90%. Additionally, 2 survey questions were asked regarding effectiveness and likelihood of behavior change resulting from the education. Of the 1031 Q1 answers, 99.9% (n=1030) reported the information provided was helpful. Of the 982 Q2 answers, 95.3% (n=936) reported they were likely to make a change to their healthcare routine as a direct result of the information received during the program. ConclusionsResults of the project demonstrate targeted and specific firefighter cancer education improves knowledge of prevention and early detection methods for cancer. Data supports that the firefighters educated were positively impacted by information and resources provided.
Keywords: FirefighterCancerPreventionEducationScreening