They used to be points of pride among firefighters – and with some they might still be considered as such. But now area fire departments, as well as many others around the country, are trying to teach their personnel that dirty coats and soot-blackened helmets represent cancer risks to be avoided. Studies have shown firefighters developing or at risk of developing cancer at a higher rate than the general population – nearly twice as much with some forms of cancer such as testicular or malignant mesothelioma. Some firefighters call it an epidemic that’s been sweeping through the ranks for several years now, in large part due to the toxic exposures from fires. The International Association of Fire Fighters claims occupational cancer has become the leading cause of death for firefighters nationwide.