AFFF Kidney Cancer Lawsuit
- Last Updated: July 1st, 2025
Attorney Jessica Paluch-Hoerman, founder of TruLaw, has over 28 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.
Legally Reviewed
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.
Fact-Checked
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:
- Veterans and firefighters diagnosed with kidney cancer can still file AFFF lawsuits in 2025, with kidney cancer selected as the priority case type for the first bellwether trial scheduled for October 20, 2025.
- Military personnel, firefighters, and airport workers exposed to AFFF foam who develop kidney cancer may qualify for settlements ranging from $200,000 to $500,000 based on factors including exposure duration, age at diagnosis, and medical expenses.
- The statute of limitations for AFFF kidney cancer claims typically ranges from 2-6 years from the date of diagnosis rather than exposure date, giving recently diagnosed patients time to join over 10,000 pending cases in MDL 2873.
Can I Still File an AFFF Kidney Cancer Lawsuit?
Question: Can I still file an AFFF kidney cancer lawsuit?
Answer: Yes, you can still file an AFFF kidney cancer lawsuit in 2025 as personal injury cases continue to be accepted into MDL 2873, with kidney cancer claims receiving priority status as the focus of the first bellwether trial in October 2025.
The statute of limitations for kidney cancer claims varies by state, typically ranging from 2-6 years from the date of diagnosis rather than the date of AFFF exposure, providing opportunities for recently diagnosed patients.
Many veterans and retired firefighters are just now discovering their kidney cancer resulted from decades-old AFFF exposure, as increased awareness and scientific studies have clarified the connection.
Judge Gergel’s selection of kidney cancer for the initial bellwether trial demonstrates the court’s recognition of these claims’ strength and importance within the broader AFFF litigation.
On this page, we’ll discuss this question in further depth, major defendants in the AFFF lawsuit, types of cancer linked to AFFF exposure, and much more.
Kidney Cancer Risk from AFFF Exposure
Scientific studies have established a clear link between PFAS exposure and kidney cancer, with research showing that PFAS chemicals accumulate in kidney tissue and interfere with normal cellular function.
The kidneys’ role in filtering blood makes them particularly vulnerable to PFAS toxicity, as these chemicals concentrate in renal tissue during the filtration process.
Symptoms of AFFF-related kidney cancer often don’t appear until the disease has progressed, including blood in urine, persistent back pain, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Many firefighters and military personnel diagnosed with kidney cancer had no family history or other risk factors, pointing to AFFF exposure as the primary cause.
The latency period between exposure and diagnosis can span 10-30 years, meaning veterans and retired firefighters are only now discovering their cancer resulted from decades-old AFFF exposure.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with kidney cancer after AFFF exposure, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation that can help you determine if you qualify to file an AFFF Lawsuit today.
Table of Contents
AFFF Firefighting Foam and Kidney Cancer
Aqueous film forming foam (AFFF) is a firefighting suppressant used since the 1960s.
Military bases, airports, and fire departments relied on AFFF to extinguish fuel-based fires quickly.
The connection between AFFF exposure and kidney cancer has become undeniable through decades of scientific research and internal company documents.
What is Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)?
AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), known as forever chemicals.
These toxic chemicals don’t break down naturally and accumulate in the human body over time.
The foam creates a barrier between fuel and oxygen, preventing fire spread.
PFAS chemicals in AFFF contaminate groundwater, drinking water, and human bloodstreams through skin contact and inhalation.
How PFAS Chemicals in AFFF Cause Kidney Cancer
PFAS exposure from firefighting foam affects kidney function through multiple pathways.
These forever chemicals accumulate in kidney tissue at higher concentrations than other organs.
Studies show PFAS interferes with cellular processes and damages DNA in kidney cells.
The chemicals trigger oxidative stress and inflammation, leading to cancer cell development.
The National Cancer Institute found a 16% increased kidney cancer risk for every 10 ng/mL increase in blood PFOA levels.
Firefighters show PFAS blood levels 20-30 times higher than the general population.
Research confirms that prolonged exposure to PFAS increases kidney cancer rates.
A 2023 study revealed that firefighters face double the kidney cancer risk compared to other workers.
Scientific Evidence Linking AFFF Exposure to Kidney Cancer
Multiple peer-reviewed studies establish the connection between AFFF exposure and kidney cancer.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classified PFOA as a likely human carcinogen based on this evidence.
A landmark study of 70,000 people near a DuPont facility found direct links between PFAS and kidney cancer.
Researchers documented a dose-response relationship, meaning higher exposure levels caused more cancer cases.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer upgraded PFOA to “possibly carcinogenic to humans” in 2024. Military studies show personnel exposed to AFFF have elevated kidney cancer rates compared to unexposed service members.
Court documents reveal manufacturers knew about cancer risks decades ago but failed to warn users.
Internal company studies from the 1970s showed PFAS caused tumors in laboratory animals.
Who Can File an AFFF Kidney Cancer Lawsuit?
The AFFF litigation continues accepting new cases as law firms including TruLaw race to file before anticipated settlement deadlines.
With 498 new cases added in March 2025 and 414 in April, the MDL demonstrates strong momentum.
Legal teams report they’re strategically positioning cases ahead of rumored settlement frameworks taking shape behind closed doors.
Military Personnel and AFFF Exposure
Military bases used AFFF extensively for training exercises and emergency response since the 1970s.
Service members at naval air stations, Air Force bases, and Army installations face exposure risks.
Veterans who worked in these high-risk military occupations may qualify for lawsuits:
- Aircraft rescue and firefighting specialists
- Fuel system maintenance personnel
- Hangar deck crews
- Flight line workers
- Base firefighters
Contaminated drinking water on military bases created additional exposure pathways.
The Department of Defense identified over 700 military sites with PFAS contamination exceeding safety limits.
Firefighters and First Responders
Civilian and volunteer firefighters experienced repeated AFFF exposure during their careers.
Fire departments used foam for training drills, equipment testing, and actual fire suppression.
First responders faced exposure through:
- Direct skin contact during foam application
- Inhalation of foam mist and vapors
- Contaminated firefighter turnout gear
- PFAS absorption through protective equipment
CDC studies show firefighters’ PFAS blood levels remain elevated years after retirement.
Cancer rates among firefighters exposed to AFFF exceed those using PFAS-free alternatives.
Airport Workers and Other Occupational Exposure
Airport personnel regularly encountered AFFF during mandatory FAA fire suppression system tests.
Workers at commercial airports, municipal airports, and private airfields face increased kidney cancer risks.
Other workers with potential AFFF exposure may include:
- Chemical Plant Employees: Face AFFF exposure during emergency response protocols and fire suppression system maintenance, with studies showing that workers handling foam-based systems have elevated blood levels of PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonic acid), which is associated with higher risks of developing testicular cancer and kidney disease
- Industrial Facility Firefighters: Experience repeated exposure to AFFF during both actual fire emergencies and training exercises involving petroleum and chemical fires, with research indicating they carry the highest levels of toxic PFAS chemicals in their blood compared to other occupational groups, leading to increased rates of kidney cancer typically developing within 15 years of first exposure
- Oil Refinery Workers: Encounter AFFF through proximity to fire suppression equipment and storage areas, with documented cases showing exposure during routine safety drills and emergency response scenarios, contributing to elevated risks for thyroid disease and immune system disorders due to the bioaccumulative nature of PFAS compounds
- Aircraft Maintenance Technicians: Receive AFFF exposure while cleaning and servicing airport hangars where foam discharge testing occurs regularly, with FAA-mandated fire suppression system tests creating repeated contact opportunities that have been linked to increased incidence of prostate cancer and liver dysfunction among long-term aviation workers
- Emergency Response Teams: Face concentrated AFFF exposure during hazmat incidents and fuel spill responses, with first responders experiencing both inhalation and dermal contact despite protective equipment use, leading to documented cases of multiple cancer types including bladder cancer and non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Navy Personnel and Military Firefighters: Have historically experienced the highest occupational AFFF exposure levels, with over 700 military sites in 50 states contaminated with PFAS, and service members who participated in fire suppression training exercises showing elevated rates of testicular cancer (2.22 times higher risk) and kidney cancer (1.74 times higher risk with high-level exposure)
- Airport Ground Crew and Safety Personnel: Encounter AFFF during mandatory FAA fire suppression system tests at commercial, municipal, and private airfields, with workers reporting prolonged exposure during foam cleanup operations that has been associated with thyroid disruption and metabolic disorders due to PFAS accumulation in body tissues
If you or a loved one developed kidney cancer after occupational AFFF exposure, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and determine whether you qualify to join others in filing an AFFF Kidney Cancer Lawsuit today.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits and MDL Status
The multidistrict litigation has reached a juncture as parties prepare for the October 2025 bellwether trials.
Judge Richard Gergel continues applying pressure for settlement, recently telling defendants to resolve cases “sooner rather than later.” With Science Day approaching on June 20, 2025, both sides are positioning for either trial or settlement negotiations.
Current AFFF MDL in South Carolina
The AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL 2873) consolidates over 10,391 personal injury cases in South Carolina as of June 2025. Judge Richard Gergel presides over the MDL in the United States District Court.
The court separated personal injury claims from water contamination cases, which already settled for $13 billion.
Personal injury lawsuits focus on cancer diagnoses and other serious health conditions.
Consolidating individual claims into an MDL provides a unified front to hold manufacturers accountable for failing to warn users of the risks associated with AFFF exposure.
Bellwether Trial Schedule for October 2025
The first personal injury bellwether trial starts October 20, 2025 (some sources indicate October 6).
Judge Gergel selected kidney cancer cases to lead the trial process.
Bellwether trials serve as test cases that help both sides evaluate claim values.
Results guide settlement negotiations for thousands of pending cases in the MDL.
The court scheduled Science Day for June 20, 2025, focusing on liver and thyroid cancer causation.
Expert witnesses will present evidence linking PFAS exposure to various cancers.
Three Kidney Cancer Cases Leading the Trial
Judge Gergel chose three kidney cancer lawsuits from Pennsylvania residents as bellwether cases.
These plaintiffs developed cancer after drinking PFAS-contaminated water near former Naval Air installations.
The selection process favored plaintiff-proposed cases over defense suggestions.
The judge picked 9 of 11 plaintiff cases while rejecting all defense proposals.
This strategic selection indicates the court’s assessment of case strength.
Strong plaintiff cases increase pressure on defendants to pursue global settlement before trial.
Types of Cancer Linked to AFFF Exposure
Scientific research continues expanding our understanding of PFAS-related cancers, with the MDL now recognizing six primary conditions.
The June 20, 2025 Science Day will examine causation evidence for liver and thyroid cancers, potentially strengthening these newer claims.
Each cancer type presents different exposure patterns and settlement values based on scientific support.
Kidney and Testicular Cancer
Kidney cancer and testicular cancer represent the strongest AFFF injury claims.
NCI research shows clear causation between PFAS exposure and these specific cancers.
Studies demonstrate PFAS accumulates in kidney and testicular tissue at dangerous levels.
The chemicals disrupt hormonal functions and cellular processes in these organs.
Male firefighters and military personnel face elevated risks for both cancer types.
Research shows 2-3 times higher rates compared to unexposed populations.
Prostate Cancer
Prostate cancer cases linked to AFFF exposure continue growing in the MDL.
PFAS chemicals interfere with testosterone and other hormones affecting prostate health.
Veterans exposed to firefighting foam show increased prostate cancer rates.
Studies document earlier onset and more aggressive forms in exposed populations.
Liver and Thyroid Cancer
The MDL now includes liver cancer and thyroid cancer among prioritized conditions.
PFAS accumulates in liver tissue, causing cellular damage and tumor development.
Thyroid disease often precedes thyroid cancer in AFFF-exposed individuals.
Other Serious Health Conditions
Beyond cancer, AFFF exposure causes additional serious health issues qualifying for lawsuits:
- Ulcerative colitis
- Thyroid disease
- High cholesterol
- Pregnancy complications
- Immune system dysfunction
The MDL focuses on six primary conditions but accepts cases involving other PFAS-related injuries identified by ATSDR.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.
How Can an AFFF Firefighting Foam Attorney from TruLaw Help You?
Our AFFF firefighting foam attorney at TruLaw is dedicated to supporting clients through the process of filing an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.
With extensive experience in chemical-exposure litigation, Jessica Paluch-Hoerman and our partner law firms work with industry leaders to prove how toxic PFAS chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam—and the resulting contamination of water supplies—caused you harm.
TruLaw focuses on securing compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, property damage, lost income, and ongoing health monitoring resulting from your AFFF exposure.
We understand the health and environmental impacts of AFFF firefighting foam on your life and provide the personalized guidance you need when seeking justice.
Meet the Lead AFFF Firefighting Foam Attorney at TruLaw
- Jessica Paluch-Hoerman: As founder and managing attorney of TruLaw, Jessica brings her product-liability and personal-injury experience to a client-centered approach that prioritizes open communication and personalized attention. Through TruLaw and its partner firms, she has helped recover more than $3 billion for injured individuals across all 50 states via verdicts and negotiated settlements.
How much does hiring an AFFF firefighting foam lawyer from TruLaw cost?
At TruLaw, we believe financial concerns should never stand in the way of justice. We operate on a contingency-fee basis—you pay legal fees only after you recover compensation.
If you or a loved one developed cancer or another serious illness after long-term exposure to AFFF firefighting foam (or PFAS-contaminated water linked to AFFF use), you may be eligible to seek compensation.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and determine whether you qualify to join others in filing an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit today.
TruLaw: Accepting Clients for the AFFF Lawsuit
AFFF lawsuits are being filed by firefighters, military veterans, airport personnel, and others nationwide after years of repeated exposure to toxic firefighting foam (AFFF) that contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
TruLaw is currently accepting clients for the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.
A few reasons to choose TruLaw for your AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit include:
- If We Don’t Win, You Don’t Pay: The AFFF firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner firms work on a contingency-fee basis— we only get paid if you win.
- Expertise: We have decades of experience handling toxic-exposure cases like the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.
- Successful Track Record: TruLaw and our partner firms have helped clients recover billions of dollars in compensation through verdicts and negotiated settlements.
If you or a loved one developed cancer or another serious illness after long-term exposure to AFFF firefighting foam, you may be eligible to seek compensation.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation and learn whether you qualify for the AFFF Lawsuit today.
AFFF Lawsuit Frequently Asked Questions
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What is the average settlement for the AFFF lawsuit?
AFFF lawsuit settlements typically range from $75,000 to $1,000,000+ based on case severity and tier classification.
Kidney cancer cases fall within Tier 1, the highest compensation category, with estimated payouts between $300,000 to $1,000,000. Settlement amounts depend on factors including exposure duration, cancer type, medical expenses, and age at diagnosis.
While no settlements have been finalized yet, these projections are based on similar mass tort cases and current litigation trends.
These estimated settlement ranges are general approximations derived from comparable past litigations and cannot be guaranteed.
Each case is unique and actual compensation will depend on individual circumstances.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.
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How long does it take to settle an AFFF lawsuit?
The first bellwether trial is scheduled for October 20, 2025, focusing specifically on kidney cancer claims.
Based on similar mass tort litigation patterns, global settlements often occur 4-6 months after initial bellwether trials, suggesting potential resolution in early 2026.
Individual cases may settle sooner through negotiations, but joining the litigation now ensures participation in any global settlement agreements reached.
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What cancers are related to the AFFF lawsuit?
The AFFF MDL 2873 officially recognizes six qualifying medical conditions: kidney cancer, testicular cancer, thyroid cancer, liver cancer, thyroid disease/hypothyroidism, and ulcerative colitis.
These conditions were selected based on scientific evidence linking PFAS exposure to specific health outcomes.
While earlier AFFF claims included over 200 different injuries, the court narrowed the focus to these six conditions in March 2025 to streamline litigation and prioritize cases with the strongest scientific support.
Plaintiffs with other cancer types must meet additional requirements under CMO 28.
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How much is the AFFF settlement going to payout?
AFFF settlement payouts are projected to range from $20,000 to over $1,000,000 based on case severity and tier classification.
Kidney cancer cases, classified as Tier 1 injuries, are expected to receive the highest compensation at $300,000 to $1,000,000.
Tier 2 cases may receive $150,000 to $300,000, while Tier 3 cases could see $75,000 or less.
Individual settlement amounts will depend on factors including exposure duration, cancer type, age at diagnosis, and medical expenses.
While no global settlement has been finalized, these projections are based on similar mass tort resolutions.
Please note these figures represent potential ranges based on comparable litigation outcomes, not guaranteed amounts.
Actual settlement values will vary based on the specific facts and damages in each case.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.
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What is a Tier 1 AFFF lawsuit?
Tier 1 AFFF lawsuits represent cases with the most severe health conditions and strongest evidence of PFAS exposure, qualifying for the highest compensation levels.
These cases typically involve life-threatening cancers including kidney cancer, testicular cancer, pancreatic cancer, and wrongful death claims.
Tier 1 plaintiffs must demonstrate long-term occupational exposure to AFFF and diagnosis with one of the MDL’s recognized cancers.
Expected settlement ranges for Tier 1 cases are $300,000 to $1,000,000, reflecting the severity of injuries and strength of causation evidence in these claims.
These settlement projections are estimates based on historical mass tort outcomes and should not be considered guaranteed values.
Individual case results will depend on specific evidence, damages, and other unique factors.
Contact TruLaw using the chat on this page to receive an instant case evaluation.
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Is prostate cancer part of the AFFF lawsuit?
Yes, prostate cancer claims are being actively accepted and filed in AFFF lawsuits, even though it’s not one of the six conditions officially designated for coordinated MDL proceedings.
Law firms across the country are accepting prostate cancer cases linked to AFFF exposure.
These cases can proceed through individual lawsuits or meet additional requirements under CMO 28 for inclusion in the MDL.
Many attorneys believe prostate cancer has strong scientific evidence linking it to PFAS exposure, with studies showing firefighters have elevated rates of prostate cancer.
While these claims may face additional procedural steps compared to the six designated conditions, victims with prostate cancer diagnoses following AFFF exposure should absolutely consult with an attorney about filing a claim.
Managing Attorney & Owner
With over 25 years of legal experience, Jessica Paluch-Hoerman 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 the most reliable, accurate, and up-to-date legal information with our readers!
Additional AFFF Lawsuit resources on our website:
Here, at TruLaw, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.
Alongside our partner law firms, we have successfully collected over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.
Would you like our help?
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With TruLaw, you gain access to successful and seasoned lawyers who maximize your chances of success. Our lawyers invest in you—they do not receive a dime until your lawsuit reaches a successful resolution!
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.
Depo Provera Lawsuit claims are being filed by individuals who allege they developed meningioma (a type of brain tumor) after receiving Depo-Provera birth control injections.
A 2024 study found that women using Depo-Provera for at least 1 year are five times more likely to develop meningioma brain tumors compared to those not using the drug.
Suboxone Tooth Decay Lawsuit claims are being filed against Indivior, the manufacturer of Suboxone, a medication used to treat opioid addiction.
Claims allege that Indivior failed to adequately warn users about the potential dangers of severe tooth decay and dental injuries associated with Suboxone’s sublingual film version.
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.
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 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 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.
Here, at TruLaw, we’re committed to helping victims get the justice they deserve.
Alongside our partner law firms, we have successfully collected over $3 Billion in verdicts and settlements on behalf of injured individuals.
Would you like our help?
