AFFF Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit

Analyze My Case
  • Last Updated: December 10th, 2024
Published 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:

  • AFFF foam contains PFAS chemicals linked to pancreatic and other cancers, raising concerns for firefighters and military personnel exposed.
  • Lawsuits claim AFFF manufacturers failed to warn users about cancer risks adequately; over 3,300 plaintiffs have joined the multidistrict litigation in South Carolina.
  • To establish causation in a lawsuit, individuals need medical records, expert testimonies, and scientific studies connecting AFFF exposure to their pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Overview of the AFFF Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit

On this page, we’ll provide an overview of the AFFF Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit, estimates for possible AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts, eligibility criteria to file an AFFF lawsuit, and much more.

AFFF Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit

Intro to the AFFF Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuits

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has been widely used in various industries since the 1960s to combat fires fueled by highly flammable liquids or gases.

These foams contain PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” which have been linked to multiple forms of cancer, including pancreatic cancer, along with other serious health risks.

Across the country, lawsuits related to AFFF exposure are being filed by individuals who believe their health has been affected.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer or another related illness, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

You can use the chatbot on this page to instantly check if you qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit.

Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through your next steps.

If you believe you have been impacted by AFFF exposure, don’t hesitate to reach out to learn more about how we can help.

Table of Contents

What is Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)?

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used in industries like aviation, military, and petrochemical sectors.

AFFF works by creating a film that cuts off oxygen from the fuel source, effectively extinguishing dangerous fires.

Developed in the 1960s, AFFF has been produced by companies such as 3M, Chemguard, and Tyco Fire Products.

These companies have supplied AFFF to industries worldwide.

However, certain types of AFFF contain PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), man-made chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and potential toxicity to humans.

The presence of PFAS in AFFF has raised concerns about the risks of direct exposure and environmental contamination, including the potential contamination of drinking water.

The Link Between AFFF Firefighting Foam and Pancreatic Cancer Risk

Research has shown links between PFAS exposure and pancreatic cancer.

For example, a 2022 study from the Indiana University School of Medicine found that exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a type of PFAS, increased the risk of pancreatic cancer in animal studies.

While more research is needed to fully understand this link, current findings indicate a heightened risk of pancreatic cancer diagnosis associated with PFAS exposure.

PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foam and Their Impact on Human Health

Chemical manufacturers and the U.S. Navy, which first approved AFFF for firefighting use, were aware of the potential risks of PFAS exposure for decades.

According to a warning issued by the U.S. Department of Defense, PFAS chemicals in AFFF pose health risks and environmental contamination concerns.

Various research studies have linked PFAS exposure to cancer and other serious health issues, especially among firefighters, military personnel, and workers who handle or manufacture AFFF.

Key studies linking AFFF exposure to health issues include:

Environmental Contamination Caused by AFFF

AFFF firefighting foam has caused widespread environmental harm, particularly due to PFAS contamination of drinking water sources.

According to the Washington State Department of Ecology, AFFF is the leading contributor to PFAS-contaminated drinking water.

One of the key challenges in addressing this contamination is that PFAS chemicals are highly soluble in water, allowing them to spread easily and persist in the environment for long periods.

As these chemicals do not break down naturally, they pose a long-term risk to groundwater, drinking water, and ecosystems.

Government agencies, including state and municipal authorities, have filed lawsuits against AFFF manufacturers for environmental contamination.

These lawsuits have been brought by the following entities:

These are just a few examples of the many municipalities and agencies that have taken legal action against companies responsible for PFAS contamination.

It’s important to note that TruLaw is only accepting clients with AFFF personal injury claims — we are not accepting clients for the AFFF municipal water contamination lawsuits.

What is the Current Status of AFFF Lawsuits? (AFFF Lawsuit Update)

AFFF lawsuits are currently being managed through multidistrict litigation (MDL), with over 3,000 individual cases pending.

These lawsuits are filed by individuals who claim health issues due to exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam.

While some manufacturers of AFFF have attempted to dismiss these claims, the firefighting foam attorneys at TruLaw and our partner law firms remain confident in the strength of these cases.

If you or a loved one has experienced exposure to firefighting foam, you can easily check your eligibility to file a lawsuit using the chatbot on this page.

Settlement Amounts in Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

It is still too early to determine the exact settlement amounts for AFFF lawsuits.

Based on similar cases, the estimated settlement range could be between $20,000 and $1,000,000 (or more).

However, these figures are only projections and not a guarantee of compensation.

As the AFFF litigation progresses, more accurate settlement information will become available.

Are You Eligible to File an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

If you or a loved one were exposed to PFAS chemicals from AFFF firefighting foam and subsequently diagnosed with cancer or other health issues, you may qualify for compensation through an AFFF lawsuit.

You can use the chatbot on this page to instantly check your eligibility or contact us for a free consultation.

Collecting Evidence for AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

Collecting strong evidence is a major component building a solid claim for an AFFF lawsuit.

The firefighting foam attorneys at TruLaw and our partner law firms will help guide you through the process of gathering the necessary documentation.

Common types of evidence for AFFF lawsuits include:

  • Medical records
  • Documentation of cancer diagnosis
  • Employment records
  • History of AFFF exposure
  • Personal and witness testimony
  • Any other relevant proof of exposure to firefighting foam

Compensation in Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

In AFFF lawsuits, attorneys will assist in assessing your total damages.

These damages encompass both economic and non-economic losses that may have resulted from AFFF exposure.

Potential damages in AFFF lawsuits may include:

  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
  • Reduced earning capacity
  • Loss of enjoyment of life
  • Permanent disability
  • Future medical treatment and therapy costs
  • Other compensatory and punitive damages
  • Loss of consortium

The Importance of Choosing the Right Attorneys for Your AFFF Claim

When considering legal representation, it’s helpful to work with attorneys who have experience in toxic exposure and chemical-related lawsuits.

The experienced firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms are equipped to help you through the legal process and strengthen your case.

We understand that dealing with the effects of AFFF exposure, including cancer diagnoses, can be overwhelming.

That’s why we’re committed to supporting our clients and ensuring they receive the compensation they may be entitled to.

Choosing the right law firm is an important decision, and it’s important to work with a team willing to go the extra mile.

Reach out today to learn more about your legal options and how we can help.

TruLaw: Your Toxic Firefighting Foam Cancer Law Firm

The AFFF lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms work tirelessly to help those impacted by Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) exposure explore their legal options.

TruLaw is focused on holding corporations and chemical manufacturers accountable for the harm caused by PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam.

We strive to assist individuals in pursuing compensation for health issues that may be linked to regular exposure to AFFF.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with cancer or suffered other health problems due to firefighting foam exposure, you may qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit and seek compensation.

Reach out to us for more information using the chat on this page to determine if you are eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are PFAS chemicals?

    Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals commonly utilized across various industries for their exceptional resistance to heat, water, oil, and stains.

    These chemicals are commonly found in products such as firefighting foam, non-stick cookware, and water-repellent fabrics.

    PFAS are known to persist in the environment without breaking down, leading to accumulation in the human body over time.

    This long-term exposure may result in serious health issues, including cancer, birth defects, and other adverse health effects.

  • Who is at risk for exposure to firefighting foam?

    People most at risk for regular exposure to firefighting foam are those whose work duties involve using or handling these products.

    The groups most likely to experience occupational exposure to PFAS in firefighting foam include:

    • Airport and military firefighters
    • Municipal firefighters
    • Industrial workers at oil refineries and similar facilities
    • Flight deck workers
    • Employees of AFFF manufacturers
    • Workers involved in transporting AFFF firefighting foam
    • Incinerator facility workers tasked with disposing of firefighting foam

    These individuals are at a higher risk of health complications related to prolonged PFAS exposure.

  • What health problems may AFFF firefighting foam be linked to?

    Exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam has been potentially linked to several cancers and other health conditions, including:

    These health risks are serious and highlight the dangers associated with AFFF exposure, particularly for those with repeated contact.

  • Who are the defendants in AFFF lawsuits?

    The defendants in the AFFF cancer lawsuits are the companies that produced and distributed AFFF firefighting foam to military bases, fire departments, airports, and other organizations.

    Some of the companies named as defendants include:

    • 3M
    • DuPont
    • Chemours
    • Tyco Fire Products
    • Chemguard Inc.
    • ChemDesign Inc.
    • Over a dozen other companies

    These companies are being held accountable for the role their products played in PFAS exposure and related health risks.

  • What is the AFFF MDL?

    The AFFF firefighting foam MDL (multidistrict litigation) was formed in the US District Court for the District of South Carolina.

    MDL is a federal legal process that consolidates similar AFFF firefighting foam cases into one court to streamline pretrial procedures.

    This system is used when a large number of people file individual lawsuits involving the same issue—such as exposure to AFFF firefighting foam—so that the cases can be handled more efficiently by addressing common legal questions in one location.

  • How can firefighting foam lawyers help me?

    The AFFF firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms can assist you through every step of the legal process for an AFFF lawsuit.

    Here are some of the ways we can help:

    1. Collecting evidence to support your AFFF lawsuit.
    2. Assessing the damages and costs related to your firefighting foam exposure.
    3. Identifying the parties responsible for your injuries and cancer diagnosis.
    4. Guiding you through the legal steps, answering your questions, and managing your case.
    5. Working to achieve a settlement for your AFFF lawsuit.

    Their goal is to help you with the legal process while working toward a favorable outcome for your case.

  • How much does it cost to hire a firefighting foam attorney?

    The firefighting foam attorneys at TruLaw and our partner law firms handle AFFF cases on a contingency fee basis.

    This means there are no upfront costs or fees for legal representation unless your case results in a settlement.

    If your AFFF lawsuit does not lead to compensation, you will not owe any legal fees.

    This ensures that pursuing your claim involves no financial risk upfront.

Published 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:

AFFF Lawsuit

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.

Suboxone Lawsuit

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 Lawsuits

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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