The Natchitoches Regional Medical Center (NRMC) and Dr. Keith Ashby of NRMC Medicine Associates now offer comprehensive cancer screening to local active duty and retired firefighters. This program is designed to support the health of those who risk their lives to protect the community. The NRMC Multispecialty clinic will hold the screening fair on Friday, Jan. 31. The screenings will be funded by the NRMC Foundation through the generous support of David and Jennifer Thornton.
“The firefighter cancer screening project is exactly why the NRMC Foundation exists,” said Halie Errington, Foundation Development Director. “Through generous donations, like the Thornton’s have made, we are able to close funding gaps and bring lifesaving technologies to our community, friends and family.”
The Louisiana Legislature recently enacted Act 554, requiring local governments to provide cancer screenings at no cost to all full-time firefighters and retirees. The law addresses the heightened cancer risks firefighters face due to exposure to toxic, cancer-causing chemicals during active firefighting and post-fire cleanup operations. In fact, occupational cancer is the number one cause of line-of-duty deaths for firefighters according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Through the support of the NRMC Foundation, the financial burden on local fire departments, already operating within tight budgets, is being alleviated.
“Firefighters are often the first ones to respond when we are at risk, so their health is a priority for all of us,” said Erin Boyt, NRMC Provider and Community Liaison and volunteer firefighter. “We’re honored to provide this vital service.”
The screenings will consist of a cancer focused examination by Dr. Keith Ashby and a blood draw for the Galleri multi-cancer early detection test. The Galleri test screens for a “fingerprint” of many of the deadliest cancers before they become symptomatic. These include cancers we don’t have recommended screening tests for today. Galleri detects fragments of DNA in the blood that have been shed by cancer cells. If a cancer signal is detected in the blood, the Galleri test can predict the Cancer Signal Origin (i.e., where the cancer is located in the body), with high accuracy to help guide next steps to diagnosis and treatment. Dr. Ashby will also review recommendations for other cancer screenings with each firefighter.
The NRMC Foundation intends to extend this initiative to include full-time and retired firefighters from Sabine Parish and Winn Parish in the near future, ensuring that more first responders have access to these critical screenings.
About the Natchitoches Regional Medical Center
Natchitoches Regional Medical Center began as a community hospital in 1955 and has grown into a 216-bed healthcare system with over 1,000 Associates and more than 100 active and consulting physicians on its medical staff. The system is comprised of the 96-bed acute care facility, a skilled nursing home, cancer center, wound center, surgical and specialty services, and an extensive network of clinics. For more information, visit NRMCHospital.org.
About the NRMC Foundation
The NRMC Foundation is a 501(c)3, nonprofit fundraising foundation, which exists to ensure that Natchitoches Regional Medical Center is equipped to excel in delivering healthcare excellence for every member of our community. The Foundation accomplishes its mission through the philanthropic support of NRMC Associates and board members; and individuals, families, and businesses. Fundraising events include the Steel Magnolia Run, Annual Gala, TappedTober Craft Beer & Wine Festival, and Halloween Golf Classic. For more information, visit NRMCFoundation.org.
About the Galleri Test
The Galleri test does not detect a signal for all cancers and not all cancers can be detected in the blood. False positive and false negative results do occur. The Galleri test identifies DNA in the bloodstream shed by cancer cells and does not predict future genetic risk for cancer. The Galleri test should be used in addition to healthcare provider recommended screening tests. Important Safety Information: galleri.com/safety-information.