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Pension board ruled correctly

The Daily Herald editorial criticizing Buffalo Grove firefighter Kevin Hauber's pension award completely ignored the subject of occupational diseases in firefighters. In fact, the pension board's decision wasn't at all misguided. However, your editorial showed complete disregard for Illinois law and the medical evidence behind it.

Kevin Hauber's death due to colon cancer is not an anomaly among veteran firefighters. Extensive scientific research shows compelling evidence that specific cancers - particularly colorectal cancers - are strongly associated with firefighting. That evidence is a result of extensive university studies as well as the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health.

You also neglected to recognize other critical medical factors: Hauber's age, family, personal health history and genetic testing did not put him at risk of colon cancer. Instead, the overriding environmental risk for the 23-year veteran firefighter was cited as evidence of increased risk to colorectal cancer. Your attempt at empathy to his widow and children was negated by your description of the pension vote as a "misguided gesture." Rather, it was imprudent of the Daily Herald to ignore Illinois law while criticizing the pension board.

Illinois laws governing presumptive disability states the type of cancer involved must be a type which may be caused by exposure to heat, radiation or a known carcinogen as defined by the International Agency for Research on Cancer. Check.

Furthermore that the cancer, arise as a result of service as a firefighter. Check.

Hauber was exposed over 23 years to soot, burning asbestos and formaldehyde. The IARC identifies these as primary carcinogens associated with an increased risk of colon cancer.

Not every firefighter succumbs to the ravages of colon cancer, just as not all airline mechanics get sucked into jet engines. But a reasonable person takes time to read scientific evidence and why it is incorporated into state law.

Pat Devaney, President

Associated Fire Fighters of Illinois

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