GOSHEN, Ind. – In the line of duty, firefighters are often exposed to smoke, carbon monoxide and other toxins. Repeated exposure to these elements may lead to a number of respiratory conditions including chronic pulmonary disease, abnormal lung function or lung cancer. And, when it comes to lung cancer, the earlier the detection, the better the outcomes.
Changes in lung function and the development of lung disease may be detected with baseline and periodic assessments. Low-dose CT lung screenings help detect early signs of cancer before symptoms begin and early detection gives more options for treatment.
Goshen Health, in collaboration with Goshen Fire Department, offered free, low-dose CT lung screenings to all qualifying firefighters this year. In this first program of its kind in the area, the fire department received 100% participation from all who qualified.
“Our members risk their lives for others every day. As station leaders, it is our responsibility to make their health and safety a priority. By offering programs and incentives to monitor their own health, we can serve the men and women who serve our communities,” said Dan Sink, Fire Chief, Goshen Fire Department.
Goshen Health is now opening the program to all interested fire departments located within Elkhart County. Concord Township Fire Department and Middlebury Fire Department have agreed to participate in the program.
Mayor Jeremy Stutsman added, “Partnerships are a big part of the success of our community. I am grateful that Goshen Health truly cares about the wellness of our first responders.”
For more information on how to bring this program to your fire department or to review the screening criteria, please call (574) 364-4626.