Why Firefighters Need Skin Cancer Exams

There’s one group one individuals that we all hold in particularly high regard: our firefighters! These brave men and women put their lives on the line every day to protect us, battling flames, smoke, and chaos to keep our homes and forests safe. Yet, there’s a quieter, less visible threat they face—one we’re passionate about addressing: an elevated risk of skin cancer, alongside other cancers. At Nashville Dermatology Physicians, we believe it’s our duty to give back to those who risk so much for us, offering them the thorough, compassionate skin care they deserve.

Why Firefighters Face Higher Risks

It’s no secret that firefighting is a demanding job, but many don’t realize how deeply it can affect the skin. Studies—like those from the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)—have shown that firefighters have a significantly higher incidence of skin cancer, including melanoma, compared to the general population. The reasons are tied to their unique exposures. When they rush into burning buildings or wildfires, they’re not just facing heat; they’re encountering a cocktail of carcinogens—benzene, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other toxins released from burning materials. These chemicals can seep into the skin, especially when gear gets soaked with sweat or debris lingers after a call.

Then there’s the sun. Whether they’re training outdoors, managing brush fires, or simply stationed in Tennessee’s bright sunlight, firefighters often spend hours exposed to ultraviolet (UV) rays without adequate protection. Over time, this UV damage compounds, raising the odds of basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma—the deadliest form of skin cancer. Add to that the physical stress of the job, which can weaken the body’s natural defenses, and it’s clear why their risk is so pronounced. Beyond skin cancer, research has linked firefighting to higher rates of cancers like lung, prostate, and leukemia, making overall health vigilance critical.

How We Can Help—Comfortably and Professionally

At Nashville Dermatology Physicians, located in Brentwood, TN, Dr. Jeffrey Berti and Dr. Toula Berti are committed to serving our firefighters with the respect and care as well as  flexibility of hours they may need.   We’ve made it our mission to create a comfortable, welcoming space where all patients can feel at ease. Our approach starts with listening. We take the time to hear about their health history, skin history, work, their exposures, and any concerns they might have—whether it’s a nagging spot they’ve noticed or just a desire to be proactive. Your treatment is just as unique as your skin care, always individualized to meet your needs!

Our skin checks are thorough but straightforward. We examine your skin—head to toe—looking for anything unusual: a mole that’s changed shape, a persistent red patch, or a sore that won’t heal. For firefighters, we pay extra attention to areas like the face, neck, and hands, which are often exposed during their duties. If needed, we perform prompt and relatively painless biopsies right here in our Brentwood office. Our goal is to catch problems early, when they’re most treatable, so they can get back to doing what they love—saving lives.

Giving Back to Those Who Risk It All

Firefighters don’t just protect our homes; they safeguard our forests, our families, and our peace of mind. In Brentwood and across Tennessee, we’ve seen their courage firsthand, and it inspires us to step up in our own way. By offering expert skin cancer screenings, we’re not just treating patients—we’re honoring a community of heroes. We have made it a priority to reach out to our local firefighters and provide them with valuable information and where to find us.

If you’re a firefighter—or if you know one—please don’t wait. A quick visit could be the difference between catching something early and facing a bigger fight later. At Nashville Dermatology Physicians, we’re here with open doors and steady hands, ready to serve those who’ve spent their lives serving us. Let’s work together to keep our firefighters healthy, so they can keep doing the extraordinary work we all rely on.

Here are the FACTS:

 Firefighters have a 21% greater risk of melanoma, the most serious form of skin
cancer. (Jalilian et al., 2019)

 Firefighters have a 62% greater risk of melanoma between ages 30-49 compared
to the general population of the same age (Pukkala et al., 2014)

 Firefighting is classified as a known human carcinogen — meaning firefighters
have a higher risk of cancer due to their occupation — according to top
researchers from across the world who have worked with the International
Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). They further listed melanoma as a cancer
of concern for firefighters due to the higher rates in firefighters than in the
general population. (Demers et al., 2022)

 Firefighters are exposed to carcinogens (cancer-causing substances) in the line of
duty, especially when fighting fires. Some of the carcinogens they may encounter
include asbestos, benzene, formaldehyde, PAHs, and PFAS. These carcinogens
can be inhaled, ingested, or absorbed through the skin. (“Systemic Exposure to
PAHs and Benzene in Firefighters Suppressing Controlled Structure Fires,” 2014)
(Mazumder et al., 2023)

Drs. Toula and Jeffrey Berti have a combined experience of over 40 years in the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of skin cancer anddisorders of the Skin, Hair and Nails. They operate an all-physician private practice in Brentwood, TN.

New Patient appointments are available.

Most Major Insurance Accepted, Medicare, TriCare

Contact Us: 615.212.2517 or request an appointment here on our website., NashvilleDermatologyPhysicians.com