Governor Ayotte Launches Firefighter Cancer Screening Initiative

CONCORD, NH - Today, Governor Kelly Ayotte launched the first day of testing for New Hampshire's Firefighters First Cancer Screening Initiative alongside public safety leaders, cancer advocates, and fire chiefs from across the state. The State has invested $5 million in the program, which was approved by the Governor and Council in December 2025.

"We've lost too many of our firefighters far too young as a result of the hazards of their job," said Governor Ayotte. "I'm proud to launch this cancer screening pilot program today to ensure the men and women who put their lives on the line for our safety get the care they need. Early detection saves lives, and New Hampshire will continue to support our firefighters and ensure they have access to these critical screenings."

The two-year pilot program, created by the Legislature and signed into law by former Governor Chris Sununu in 2024, connects current and retired full-time firefighters with cancer screening opportunities to address the growing concern of several forms of cancer linked to firefighting.

"Firefighters already risk their lives every time they answer a call," said New Hampshire Department of Safety Commissioner Robert L. Quinn. "When that work exposes them to cancer causing hazards, supporting them isn't just necessary - it's the right thing to do."

Over the initial pilot period, the state will partner with third-party testing organizations to administer cancer screening tests to all full-time or retired firefighters who choose to participate. The tests will include a comprehensive blood test, ultrasound imaging of multiple organs, and a lung CT test. New Hampshire is the first state in the nation to offer all three tests paid for by the State.

"We are proud to facilitate the logistics of this statewide cancer screening pilot program, with 1,203 screenings scheduled in Phase I, which begins today," said Director Mark Wholey of the Division of Fire Standards and Training and Emergency Medical Services. "This pilot program reflects a strong partnership between the Division, the Professional Firefighters of New Hampshire (PFFNH), and the New Hampshire Association of Fire Chiefs (NHAFC), ensuring the state's $5 Million investment into firefighter wellness is streamlined to eligible firefighters throughout the program's duration."

Eligible participants can learn more and schedule a screening online at firefightersfirst.nh.gov.

Video of today's press conference can be found here.