U.S. Rep. Nick Langworthy will visit the Clarence Center Fire Department on Monday as firefighters undergo on-site screenings for precancerous changes linked to esophageal cancer.
The visit and press conference are scheduled for 1 p.m. Sept. 21 at the department, 9415 Clarence Center Road in Clarence Center.
Langworthy is expected to tour the screening operation, observe the testing and speak with firefighters and medical professionals. His office said he will also discuss efforts in Washington to expand access to cancer screening and treatment for firefighters, though the media advisory did not identify a specific bill.
The event comes as fire departments and firefighter organizations place greater emphasis on detecting occupational cancers earlier. Firefighters can encounter smoke, combustion products and other hazardous substances during their work, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer classifies occupational exposure as a firefighter as carcinogenic to humans.
Screening focuses on esophageal cancer risk
Langworthy's office said the screening is intended to identify precancerous changes that can be treated before they develop into esophageal adenocarcinoma. The advisory cited research indicating firefighters have a 62% higher risk of developing that form of cancer, a figure also used in firefighter screening programs around the country.
Esophageal adenocarcinoma develops in glandular cells in the lower portion of the esophagus. The National Cancer Institute identifies chronic gastroesophageal reflux disease, smoking and obesity among factors associated with a higher risk of the disease.
The congressman's office did not say how many firefighters are scheduled for screening, which medical organization will conduct the tests or whether the event is open to the public. The listed location is the Clarence Center Fire Department in Erie County.
Langworthy represents New York's 23rd Congressional District, which includes parts of Western New York and the Southern Tier. The Republican lawmaker's office said Monday's event will highlight the importance of early detection and access to care for firefighters facing occupational cancer risks.
The press conference is expected to follow Langworthy's tour of the screening operation. The event begins at 1 p.m. Monday.
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