IL HR0545

Declares January 2024 as Fire Fighter Cancer Awareness Month in Illinois

Recognizes that firefighters have a 9% greater chance of being diagnosed with cancer and 14% greater chance of dying from cancer compared to the general population

Notes that occupational cancer is the leading cause of line-of-duty deaths among professional firefighters and has reached epidemic levels

Acknowledges that all 50 states recognize cancer as a presumptive workers' compensation claim for firefighters

Emphasizes that early cancer detection through routine screening leads to better treatment outcomes, improved survival rates, and reduced morbidity