This year, an estimated 7,200 Canadians will be diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. We are still trying to understand the causes of this disease, though there are several risk factors that are known to us. One of these risk factors has become increasingly clear: due to the carcinogens they are exposed to, firefighters are at risk of developing pancreatic cancer.

Mounting scientific evidence supports the relationship between firefighting and pancreatic cancer, but it has yet to be recognized as an occupational risk in every province. Currently, eight – British Columbia, Alberta, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Manitoba, Ontario, Saskatchewan and Yukon territory – have legislation in place that acknowledges pancreatic cancer as a presumptive risk for firefighters. This legislation entitles firefighters diagnosed with pancreatic cancer to special benefits, recognizing that the disease was developed as a result of their profession.

There is no greater risk to firefighters in one province over another. Every firefighter who develops pancreatic cancer in the line of duty deserves the full support of their province and entitlements that provide for them and their families. Pancreatic Cancer Canada has been working diligently alongside provincial firefighter associations, the International Association of Firefighters, and the Canadian Association of Fire Chiefs, supporting advocacy efforts to have pancreatic listed as a presumptive cancer in every province and raising awareness among firefighters about their risk. 

We encourage you to download our one-page resource on the connection between firefighting and pancreatic cancer, and if you are a first responder, share it with your doctor so they can be vigilant about any symptoms you may experience.

Quick Resources

Signs and Symptoms

The signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer are usually vague, which makes it one of the most challenging diseases to catch in its early stages. If you experience one or more of these symptoms, speak to your doctor about diagnostic testing for pancreatic cancer.

• Persistent pain in the upper abdomen or back
• Jaundice
• Changes in stool colour
• Overall skin itch
• Late-onset diabetes
• Loss of appetite or unintended weight loss
• Fatigue
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhea and constipation

Common Misdiagnoses

There is no rapid screening test for pancreatic cancer and symptoms can resemble other ailments, making it easily misdiagnosed at the first signs. Below are some of the common misdiagnoses for pancreatic cancer you should be aware of.

• Gallbladder disease or gallstones
• Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Peptic ulcer
• Diverticulitis
• Muscular pain
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (heartburn and reflux)

The map on the right shows the status of legislation recognizing pancreatic as a presumptive cancer in each province.

• Provinces that have added pancreatic as a presumptive cancer are shown in purple.

• Provinces where there is legislation currently being considered are shown in yellow.

• Provinces that do not acknowledge pancreatic as a presumptive cancer with no current legislation in progress are light grey.

Read articles announcing the expansion of presumptive cancers by clicking on each province. 

What Firefighters Can Do

• Always wear protective equipment properly and speak to station leadership about any concerns with your gear.
• Ensure your doctor knows about the risk factors associated with your profession and that pancreatic cancer is something that should be watched for. You can even share our downloadable resource with your doctor on your next visit.
• Stay vigilant of the signs and symptoms of pancreatic cancer and speak to your doctor if symptoms persist or feel unusual. A timely diagnosis is a patient’s greatest chance of survival.