By Emily Sturtevant
Eagle Times Correspondent
NEW LONDON, NH — The New London Fire Department took action to increase breast cancer awareness by donning a pink ribbon for the eighth year in a row.
New London’s fire station has drawn the attention of the town with its illustrious pink ribbon this past October. Fire Chief Jason Lyon alongside the rest of New London’s firefighters attached the ribbon as a way of spreading awareness for one of America’s most prevalent cancers. Lyon explained that the tradition started when one of his colleagues contracted breast cancer.
“We [put up the ribbon] when she was in the process of receiving treatment,” said Lyon, who added that his colleague has since completed treatment.
He proceeded to explain the meaning behind the ribbon and the value it holds within the firefighter community.
“Cancer in the firefighter community is a huge epidemic because of the toxins firefighters are exposed to … we have a higher rate of cancer than the general public,” Lyon said.
Lyon’s words are supported by The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. The group discovered in a 2015 study that firefighters face a 9 percent increase in cancer diagnoses, as well as a 14 percent increase in cancer-related deaths.
The New London Fire Department worked to raise breast cancer awareness for the eighth year during October.
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