FEMA Grant Funded Study of Women Firefighter Cancer Risks
Researchers are investigating how protective equipment fit impacts health for women in the fire service.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Cancer
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Florida State University and the University of Arizona received a $1.5 million FEMA grant to study cancer risks among women firefighters. The project aims to identify links between personal protective equipment fit and long-term occupational health.
Why it matters
Occupational cancer is the leading cause of death for long-term fire service workers, making it critical to understand how equipment design may affect safety. This research seeks to inform future standard sizing improvements to better protect this workforce.
A $1.5 million FEMA grant supports a new partnership between Florida State University and the University of Arizona. The project investigates how the fit of protective gear influences cancer risk among women firefighters, though findings are not yet available.
The players
Meredith McQuerry
A researcher who is leading the cancer risk study at Florida State University.
Florida State University
An academic institution housing the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship and a lead site for firefighter safety research.
University of Arizona
A research institution co-receiving the FEMA grant to collaborate on occupational health studies.
FEMA
The federal agency responsible for coordinating disaster response and providing research grants to enhance public safety.
The details
The research team at the Jim Moran College of Entrepreneurship will analyze how the design and fit of current fire service gear might contribute to increased exposure or health vulnerabilities. By examining the relationship between equipment ergonomics and safety, the study aims to provide data that could drive systemic improvements in protective standards for women. This work addresses the specific occupational hazards faced by women in the fire service, who have historically been underserved by standard-issue gear.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: The FEMA grant was awarded to the universities.
Health Landscape
This research follows a growing pattern of examining how standardized equipment safety protocols fail to account for the physical requirements of diverse populations. It expands upon existing efforts to modernize protective ensembles beyond legacy standards.
Firefighters who are concerned about potential chemical exposure from ill-fitting protective gear should keep track of emerging safety guidelines. Discussing your specific equipment fit and any health concerns with your occupational physician can help you monitor your individual health status.
The takeaway
Occupational cancer remains a significant health risk for those in the fire service, highlighting the need for better-fitting protective equipment. Consider speaking with your department leadership about equipment procurement processes and current sizing options available to you.
Further reading
For broader information on current research, visit our Cancer section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by WFSU News.
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