Helping hometown heroes with Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks

The AAD’s Firefighter Skin Cancer Checks Program continued to expand nationwide in 2025. The initiative is designed to support firefighters, who are at a significantly higher risk of developing melanoma and skin cancer than the general public. The program, which was developed in partnership with the Firefighter Cancer Support Network, has gained strong traction and member involvement in its first full year.

In 2025, 4,058 firefighters received free skin cancer checks at events across the country, bringing the total to date to 8,065 checks performed by AAD member dermatologists. That puts the Academy in a great position to achieve its goal of performing skin cancer checks for 10,000 firefighters by the end of 2026!

This progress reflects the power of partnership, volunteerism, and the critical role dermatologists play in early detection. You can help continue the momentum by hosting your own firefighter skin cancer check event.