Veterans who worked with or around Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) and subsequently developed cancer or other health problems may be eligible to recover compensation through an AFFF lawsuit. AFFF is a firefighting foam that has been widely used by military and civilian firefighters since the 1960s to extinguish fuel fires. However, the chemicals found in AFFF, known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), have been linked to various health concerns, including an increased risk of certain cancers and other chronic diseases.
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, including:
- Kidney, Liver, Thyroid and Testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Pregnancy-induced hypertension and preeclampsia
- High cholesterol
- Immune system suppression
- Any cancers that Veterans may have developed if they have been exposed.
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.
What Compensation May Be Available to Veterans Through an AFFF Lawsuit?
Veterans diagnosed with cancer or other health problems after exposure to AFFF may be eligible for compensation for:
- Medical expenses related to their condition
- Lost wages or income if they were unable to work due to their health concerns
- Pain and suffering
- Disability
- Wrongful death (if a loved one died due to AFFF-related health issues)
An AFFF lawsuit may help Veterans and their loved ones hold manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by their products and secure the financial support they need to manage their health problems.
How Can Berry Law Help with an AFFF Lawsuit?
Veterans diagnosed with a health condition that may be linked to AFFF exposure may be eligible for compensation. A Berry Law attorney can help Veterans understand their legal options and guide them through the process of filing an AFFF lawsuit.
The team of skilled attorneys at Berry Law is dedicated to helping Veterans harmed by AFFF exposure. They understand the unique challenges Veterans face and are committed to fighting for the compensation military personnel deserve for their service and sacrifice. Our attorneys have extensive experience handling complex litigation and will work tirelessly to build the strongest possible case.
Veterans and family members of Veterans diagnosed with a health condition that may be related to AFFF exposure are encouraged to contact Berry Law at (888) 883-2483 or through the online form for a free, no-obligation consultation. Berry Law’s legal team will review the case and help navigate an appropriate course of action.
