Story perspectives

London Firefighters Face Increased Cancer Risk, Urgent Changes Needed

2/4/2026

50 6

Summary

Story summary

London Assembly Fire Committee reports London firefighters face higher cancer risk from exposure to toxic substances.
About 4% of surveyed firefighters reported cancer diagnoses, highest among those aged 35–39.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski calls for a UK-wide exposure program to address these risks.
The committee recommends better PPE, enhanced training, and ongoing health monitoring for firefighters.
The National Fire Chiefs Council supports ongoing mitigation of health risks from fire contaminants.

1 of 1

Story summary

London Assembly Fire Committee reports London firefighters face higher cancer risk from exposure to toxic substances.
About 4% of surveyed firefighters reported cancer diagnoses, highest among those aged 35–39.
Green Party leader Zack Polanski calls for a UK-wide exposure program to address these risks.
The committee recommends better PPE, enhanced training, and ongoing health monitoring for firefighters.
The National Fire Chiefs Council supports ongoing mitigation of health risks from fire contaminants.