What are PFAS in Firefighting Foam?
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals resistant to heat, water, and oil. They are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time. The two most common PFAS found in AFFF firefighting foam are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a known carcinogen, and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a possible carcinogen.
Who is At Risk of AFFF Exposure?
Veterans who have served on military bases or worked as firefighters are at a higher risk of exposure to AFFF. The military has used AFFF extensively in training exercises and to combat fuel fires on bases, ships, and aircraft. As a result, many Veterans may have been exposed to PFAS through inhalation, skin contact, or ingestion of contaminated water sources near military installations.
Why Are Veterans Filing AFFF Lawsuits?
Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can lead to a range of health problems. Berry Law is filing claims for people with these conditions:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Liver cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Thyroid disease – hypo- and hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Prostate cancer
- Breast cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Blood Cancers: Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, Leukemia
PFAS contamination has also been found in drinking water sources near military bases and firefighting training sites. This has led to concerns about the long-term effects of PFAS exposure on the environment and public health.
As a result of these findings, many Veterans are now seeking compensation through AFFF lawsuits. These lawsuits allege that the manufacturers of AFFF knew or should have known about the potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure but failed to adequately warn the military and the public.
