Legislation Aims To Fund Cancer Research For Firefighters

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MIAMI (CBSMiami) -- Miami-Dade County is calling to fund a program that would support cancer research for firefighters.

County commissioners have adopted legislation securing funds for a new research partnership between the UM/Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and the Miami-Dade and Palm Beach County fire departments.

It comes after a study showed mounting evidence linking cases of cancer and firefighting.

"I applaud the Sylvester Cancer Center for taking the lead in addressing this pressing issue," said Commissioner Rebeca Sosa. "It is very alarming to me to see so many of our brave firefighters getting cancer. With this study, it is my hope that we learn how to protect them and keep them healthy for many years to come."

The study, now in its first year, has received financing from the State of Florida; however, additional funds are needed to achieve its long-term goal. Commissioner Sosa filed the resolution to urge Congress and the U.S. Secretary of Health & Human Services to allocate funding for the groundbreaking study.