AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

Written By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Attorney Jessie Paluch, founder of TruLaw, has over 25 years of experience as a personal injury and mass tort attorney, and previously worked as an international tax attorney at Deloitte. Jessie collaborates with attorneys nationwide — enabling her to share reliable, up-to-date legal information with our readers.

This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy and clarity by the team of writers and legal experts at TruLaw and is as accurate as possible. This content should not be taken as legal advice from an attorney. If you would like to learn more about our owner and experienced injury lawyer, Jessie Paluch, you can do so here.

TruLaw does everything possible to make sure the information in this article is up to date and accurate. If you need specific legal advice about your case, contact us by using the chat on the bottom of this page. This article should not be taken as advice from an attorney.

Key takeaways:

  • Firefighters and other individuals who have been exposed to AFFF, a firefighting foam containing harmful PFAS chemicals, are at an increased risk of developing bladder cancer
  • A growing number of lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers of AFFF by those affected, with legal professionals specializing in environmental litigation assisting them in seeking justice and compensation.
  • Settlement amounts in these lawsuits vary widely but may range from $50,000 to $300,000 based on individual case details; overall funds like the one totaling $1.185 billion highlight the severity of these claims.

Overview of the AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

On this page, we’ll discuss an overview of the AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit, potential AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts, who qualifies to file an AFFF lawsuit, and much more.

AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

Intro to the AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuits & Health Risks Linked to AFFF Firefighting Foam

The AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit refers to legal action addressing the health consequences of long-term exposure to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) containing per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

The AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit is part of a larger multidistrict litigation (MDL) consolidating numerous claims against AFFF manufacturers, alleging they failed to warn users about the potential health risks associated with AFFF exposure.

AFFF has been widely used in firefighting for its effectiveness in suppressing Class B fires.

However, recent scientific studies have linked AFFF exposure to various health issues, particularly an increased risk of bladder cancer.

AFFF firefighting foam exposure has been commonly found as its been extensively used in military, industrial, and airport firefighting operations.

The health risks associated with AFFF exposure include:

A study published in Environmental Health Insights found that residents of a town in New Hampshire with confirmed PFAS contamination in their water supply were at an increased risk of bladder cancer and other types of cancer.

The lawsuit primarily involves plaintiffs such as firefighters, military personnel, and individuals exposed to AFFF-contaminated water supplies, seeking compensation from companies that manufactured and supplied AFFF, including 3M, DuPont, and Tyco Fire Products.

If you or a loved one has developed bladder cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, or other aggressive cancers following exposure to AFFF, you may qualify for compensation.

Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and determine your eligibility to join others in filing for the AFFF MDL today.

Table of Contents

The AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit Explained

The AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit has emerged as a significant legal issue, with numerous individuals seeking compensation for health problems allegedly caused by exposure to aqueous film forming foam (AFFF).

These lawsuits claim that the use of AFFF firefighting foam has led to an increased risk of developing bladder cancer and other serious health conditions.

As the number of AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits continues to rise, it is important to understand the legal basis and potential outcomes of these cases.

Legal Basis for the AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

The legal foundation for the AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit rests on the premise that the manufacturers of AFFF firefighting foam failed to adequately warn users about the potential health risks associated with exposure to the foam.

Chemical Composition of AFFF and Related Health Risks

AFFF firefighting foam contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to various health problems, including bladder cancer, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and breast cancer.

Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can lead to an increased risk of developing these cancers, and regulatory agencies have taken action to limit the use of these toxic chemicals and protect public health.

Liability Claims in the AFFF Bladder Cancer Litigation

In AFFF cancer lawsuits, plaintiffs argue that the manufacturers of AFFF firefighting foam knew or should have known about the potential health risks associated with exposure to PFAS but failed to adequately warn users or take steps to reduce these risks.

To establish liability, plaintiffs must provide evidence linking their bladder cancer or other health problems to their exposure to AFFF firefighting foam.

This may include medical records, expert testimony, and other documentation supporting their claims.

Progress and Developments in the AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

As the AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit progresses, there have been significant developments and notable cases that have shaped the direction of the litigation.

Current Status of Bladder Cancer Lawsuits Linked to AFFF

Currently, there are thousands of AFFF lawsuits pending in federal and state courts across the United States.

Many of these AFFF firefighting foam cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL), which allows for coordinated pretrial proceedings and helps to streamline the legal process.

As the litigation moves forward, more individuals are expected to file lawsuits related to their exposure to AFFF firefighting foam and subsequent health problems.

The Role of Multi-District Litigation (MDL) and Bellwether Trials

The AFFF firefighting foam MDL was established to manage the growing number of lawsuits related to AFFF exposure and bladder cancer.

The MDL process allows for coordinated discovery, pretrial motions, and other legal proceedings, which can help to expedite the resolution of these cases.

As part of the MDL process, bellwether trials may be conducted to help gauge the strength of the plaintiffs’ claims and the likelihood of success in future trials.

The outcomes of these bellwether trials can have a significant impact on the overall AFFF litigation and may influence potential settlements or other resolutions.

Potential Compensation in the AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

For individuals who have developed bladder cancer or other health problems as a result of exposure to AFFF firefighting foam, the AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit may provide an opportunity to seek compensation for their damages.

Types of Compensation Available to Plaintiffs

Plaintiffs in AFFF lawsuits may be eligible for various types of compensation, depending on the specific circumstances of their case.

This may include compensation for medical expenses related to:

  • Diagnosis and Treatment of bladder cancer
  • Lost wages and income due to missed work
  • Pain and suffering
  • Other damages.

In some cases, plaintiffs may also be able to seek punitive damages, which are intended to punish the defendants for particularly egregious conduct.

Factors That Influence Compensation Amounts

The amount of compensation that plaintiffs may be eligible to receive in an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit can vary widely depending on several factors.

These may include the severity of the plaintiff’s health problems, the extent and duration of their exposure to AFFF firefighting foam, and the strength of the evidence linking their health problems to AFFF exposure.

The skill and experience of the plaintiff’s legal representation can also play a significant role in the outcome of their case and the amount of compensation they may be able to recover.

How to File an AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuit

For individuals who believe they may have a valid claim related to AFFF exposure and bladder cancer, filing an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit may be a necessary step in seeking compensation for their damages.

Eligibility Requirements for Filing an AFFF Lawsuit

To be eligible to file an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit, individuals must typically have been exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and subsequently developed bladder cancer or another related health problem.

This may include firefighters, military personnel, and other individuals who have worked with or around AFFF firefighting foam.

If you are considering filing an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit, here are a few of the steps you should follow:

  1. Speak With Experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers: Consult a lawyer who specializes in AFFF and toxic exposure cases to evaluate your situation and advise you on your legal options. Professional guidance ensures your case is effectively handled from the beginning.
  2. Gathering Evidence: Collect all relevant documents like medical records, employment or military service records indicating AFFF exposure, and any related safety reports. Your attorney can help identify and obtain the necessary evidence to support your claim.
  3. Determining Damages: Work with your lawyer to assess the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Accurate calculation ensures you seek adequate compensation for all your losses.
  4. File Your AFFF Lawsuit: Your attorney will file a formal complaint outlining your allegations and the compensation you are seeking. The legal process then proceeds with discovery, negotiations, and possibly a trial, with your lawyer representing your interests throughout.

By following these steps, you can effectively pursue compensation for injuries related to AFFF exposure.

It’s important to act promptly, as legal deadlines may affect your ability to file a claim.

You can do so by using the chat on this page for an instant case evaluation to determine if you qualify to file an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit today.

Selecting the Right Legal Representation for Your Case

When filing an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit, it is important to choose experienced and knowledgeable legal representation.

Firefighting foam attorneys who specialize in AFFF litigation can provide valuable guidance and support throughout the legal process, helping plaintiffs to build strong cases and seek the compensation they deserve.

When selecting an attorney, plaintiffs should consider factors such as the attorney’s experience with AFFF lawsuits, their track record of success, and their communication and client service skills.

The Future of AFFF Bladder Cancer Lawsuits

As the AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit continues to evolve, there are several anticipated legal and regulatory changes that may impact the future of these cases.

Expected Legal and Regulatory Changes

In response to growing concerns about the health risks associated with AFFF exposure, regulatory agencies may take additional actions to limit the use of PFAS chemicals and protect public health.

This may include new regulations on the manufacture and use of AFFF firefighting foam, as well as increased monitoring and cleanup efforts at sites contaminated with PFAS.

Additionally, court rulings in key AFFF lawsuits may set important precedents that shape the future of the litigation.

The Potential Impact on Firefighting Practices and Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Usage

As awareness of the potential health risks associated with AFFF exposure continues to grow, there may be significant changes in firefighting practices and the use of AFFF firefighting foam.

Many fire departments and military organizations are already exploring alternative firefighting agents that do not contain PFAS chemicals, and there is ongoing research into the development of safer and more environmentally friendly firefighting foams.

Additional efforts to clean up sites contaminated with AFFF firefighting foam and PFAS chemicals may become increasingly important in the coming years.

The AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit represents a significant legal and public health issue, with potentially far-reaching implications for individuals exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and the manufacturers of these products.

As the litigation continues to unfold, it will be important to monitor developments in the legal and regulatory landscape, as well as the ongoing efforts to address the health risks associated with AFFF exposure and protect the well-being of affected individuals and communities.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit?

    The AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit involves individuals seeking compensation for health problems, such as bladder cancer, allegedly caused by exposure to aqueous film forming foam (AFFF).

    The AFFF lawsuits allege that AFFF firefighting foam manufacturers did not provide sufficient warnings to users about the possible health hazards linked to foam exposure.

  • What are the health risks associated with exposure to AFFF firefighting foam?

    AFFF firefighting foam contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are man-made chemicals linked to various health problems, including bladder cancer, prostate cancer, testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and breast cancer.

    Studies have shown that exposure to PFAS can lead to an increased risk of developing these cancers.

  • What is the current status of the AFFF bladder cancer lawsuits?

    Currently, there are thousands of AFFF lawsuits pending in federal and state courts across the United States.

    Many of these cases have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) to streamline the legal process and coordinate pretrial proceedings.

  • What types of compensation are available to plaintiffs in AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits?

    Plaintiffs in AFFF foam lawsuits may be eligible for various types of compensation, including medical expenses related to the diagnosis and treatment of bladder cancer, lost wages and income, pain and suffering, and other damages.

    In some cases, plaintiffs may also be able to seek punitive damages to punish the defendants for particularly egregious conduct.

  • Who is eligible to file an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit?

    To be eligible to file an AFFF bladder cancer lawsuit, individuals must typically have been exposed to AFFF firefighting foam and subsequently developed bladder cancer or another related health problem.

    This may include firefighters, military personnel, and other individuals who have worked with or around AFFF firefighting foam.

  • What changes are expected in the future regarding AFFF usage and regulations?

    In response to growing concerns about the health risks associated with AFFF exposure, regulatory agencies may take additional actions to limit the use of PFAS chemicals and protect public health.

    Many fire departments and military organizations are already exploring alternative firefighting agents that do not contain PFAS chemicals, and ongoing research aims to develop safer and more environmentally friendly firefighting foams.

  • Is there an AFFF firefighting foam class action lawsuit?

    No, there is no AFFF class action lawsuit for cancer and other health issues related to AFFF exposure.

    Instead, AFFF lawsuits have been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL).

    The AFFF firefighting foam MDL is a legal process designed to manage a large number of similar lawsuits efficiently by consolidating them in one court for pretrial proceedings.

    This process differs from class action lawsuits, where compensation is typically distributed equally among all plaintiffs.

    In an MDL, settlements are based on the specific details and damages of each individual case.

    The AFFF MDL is currently centralized in the US District Court for the District of South Carolina.

Written By:
Jessie Paluch
Jessie Paluch

Experienced Attorney & Legal SaaS CEO

With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessie is an Illinois lawyer, a CPA, and a mother of three.  She spent the first decade of her career working as an international tax attorney at Deloitte.

In 2009, Jessie co-founded her own law firm with her husband – which has scaled to over 30 employees since its conception.

In 2016, Jessie founded TruLaw, which allows her to collaborate with attorneys and legal experts across the United States on a daily basis. This hypervaluable network of experts is what enables her to share reliable legal information with her readers!

You can learn more about the AFFF Lawsuit by visiting any of our pages listed below:

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AFFF Lawsuit claims are being filed against manufacturers of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), commonly used in firefighting.

Claims allege that companies such as 3M, DuPont, and Tyco Fire Products failed to adequately warn users about the potential dangers of AFFF exposure — including increased risks of various cancers and diseases.

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Social Media Harm Lawsuits are being filed against social media companies for allegedly causing mental health issues in children and teens.

Claims allege that companies like Meta, Google, ByteDance, and Snap designed addictive platforms that led to anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues without adequately warning users or parents.

Vaginal Mesh Lawsuits

Transvaginal Mesh Lawsuits are being filed against manufacturers of transvaginal mesh products used to treat pelvic organ prolapse (POP) and stress urinary incontinence (SUI).

Claims allege that companies like Ethicon, C.R. Bard, and Boston Scientific failed to adequately warn about potential dangers — including erosion, pain, and infection.

Bair Hugger Lawsuit

Bair Hugger Warming Blanket Lawsuits involve claims against 3M — alleging their surgical warming blankets caused severe infections and complications (particularly in hip and knee replacement surgeries).

Plaintiffs claim 3M failed to warn about potential risks — despite knowing about increased risk of deep joint infections since 2011.

Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit

Baby Formula NEC Lawsuit claims are being filed against manufacturers of cow’s milk-based baby formula products.

Claims allege that companies like Abbott Laboratories (Similac) and Mead Johnson & Company (Enfamil) failed to warn about the increased risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants.

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