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The new San Antonio Firefighters Cancer Prevention Program aims to better understand and reduce the cancer burden among local firefighters and emergency medical services personnel, thanks to the partnership of the San Antonio Fire Department, UT Health San Antonio, and Sylvester’s Firefighter Cancer Initiative at the University of Miami.
The program, launched in April 2025, is gaining media coverage:
The San Antonio Firefighters Cancer Prevention Program has begun educational outreach activities, led by Dr. Amelie G. Ramirez, director of the Institute for Health Promotion Research and associate director of community outreach and engagement at the Mays Cancer Center.
The team also initiated an immediate response system with the Mays Cancer Center to provide cancer care referrals to firefighters who receive a cancer diagnosis.
“Our goal is to strengthen cancer prevention, education, and expert care for the incredible firefighters and emergency responders who dedicate their lives to protecting our community,” Ramirez said.
Editor’s Note: The views and conclusions contained in this document are those of the authors and should not be interpreted as representing the opinions or policies of the City of San Antonio. Mention of trade names or commercial products does not constitute their endorsement by Government.
Editor’s Note: The main image above features (from left to right): Daniel Phillip Barto, Firefighter (Lieutenant), SAFD; Hoyt Foster Allen Jr., Firefighter (Engineer), SAFD; Amanda Blackwood, Firefighter, SAFD; Brian O’Neill, PhD, Deputy Fire Chief, SAFD; Dr. Amelie G. Ramirez, UT Health San Antonio.
By The Numbers
142
Percent
Expected rise in Latino cancer cases in coming years
