AFFF Thyroid Disease Lawsuit

Both civilian and military firefighters have extensively used AFFF foam to combat fires involving highly flammable liquids.

However, despite its firefighting efficiency, AFFF contains PFAS chemicals, which have been associated with a heightened risk of thyroid disease.

The connection between PFAS exposure and thyroid disease is well-established.

Multiple studies have demonstrated a link between these toxic chemicals and disruptions in thyroid function.

For example, a 2018 meta-analysis found a consistent pattern of decreased thyroid hormone levels in individuals exposed to PFAS.

A 2020 review also highlighted the thyroid-disrupting effects of both older and newer PFAS chemicals, identifying pregnant women and developing children as particularly vulnerable groups.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified children and industrial workers as two (2) of the most vulnerable groups to PFAS exposure.

Military firefighters, in particular, have faced elevated exposure due to their frequent use of AFFF in training and real-world fire suppression.

Impact of PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foam on Human Health

Research indicates that both the U.S. Navy and chemical manufacturers were aware of the toxic effects of PFAS chemicals in AFFF long before official warnings were issued.

The Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Defense have since acknowledged the serious health risks associated with AFFF exposure, including thyroid disease and cancer.

Numerous studies have demonstrated the dangers of PFAS chemicals, which are present in AFFF firefighting foam.

The health impacts extend across a range of populations, including firefighters, chemical plant workers, and individuals in related industries who may have come into contact with the foam.

Studies on the links between AFFF exposure and health risks include:

• Research published in the Journal of the American Medical Association identified a link between PFOA exposure and a higher risk of developing kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
• The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has categorized PFOA as a possible carcinogen and PFOS as potentially carcinogenic to humans.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released a health advisory for PFOA and PFOS, cautioning that prolonged exposure to these chemicals could lead to serious health risks.
• Research conducted by the National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology (Australia) revealed that firefighters are likely to have increased levels of fluorinated surfactants in their bloodstream.
• Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley found that women firefighters who used AFFF foam had higher levels of PFAS in their bodies than those who did not.
• Research in the International Journal of Cancer found a link between PFOS exposure and breast cancer.

Health Risks Linked to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) Exposure

AFFF exposure has been linked to numerous health conditions, particularly cancers and other chronic health issues.

Health risks associated with exposure to PFAS-containing firefighting foam include:

• Prostate cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Colon cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Breast cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Bladder cancer
• Liver cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Increased risk of high blood pressure or pre-eclampsia in pregnant women
• Decreased vaccine response in children
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Increased cholesterol levels
• Small decreases in infant birth weights

These health risks underscore the importance of staying informed about potential AFFF exposure and understanding the legal options available to those who may have been impacted.

The AFFF lawsuits involve a series of claims filed by individuals exposed to PFAS chemicals found in toxic firefighting foam.

These plaintiffs include a variety of individuals, such as military firefighters who served at U.S. military installations, airport workers, civilian firefighters, industrial workers, and others.

Plaintiffs are pursuing legal action against manufacturers of AFFF, claiming that exposure to PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam has led to serious health issues.

Given the high volume of AFFF firefighting foam cases, the litigation has been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL).

This AFFF firefighting foam MDL is being managed in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina under MDL 2873.

Who Are the Defendants in AFFF Firefighting Foam Cases?

The defendants in the AFFF lawsuits include several manufacturers responsible for producing and supplying AFFF products to military bases, airports, and other facilities.

Current defendants in the AFFF lawsuits include:

• Arkema Inc.
• Chubb National Foam Inc.
• Clariant Corp.
• 3M
• Kidde-Fenwal
• Carrier Global Corp.
• AGC Chemicals Americas
• BASF Corp.
• Tyco Fire Products
• DuPont
• Corteva Inc.
• Dynax Corp.
• UTC Fire & Security Americas
• Chemours

As the litigation continues, additional manufacturers may be named as defendants as more individuals come forward with personal injury claims.

The outcome of these lawsuits will determine whether plaintiffs will receive settlements for their AFFF exposure-related health conditions.

Although the AFFF lawsuits are ongoing, no settlement has been awarded at this time.

However, based on past MDL cases involving product liability, we estimate potential settlement amounts for successful AFFF claims could range from $20,000 to $600,000 (or more).

These figures are projections based on previous mass tort cases and are not guaranteed outcomes.

The amount you may recover will depend on specific factors in your case, including your exposure to AFFF and the illnesses you have developed.

For more information on potential AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts, visit this page.

If you or a loved one has developed thyroid disease due to exposure to AFFF foam, you may be eligible to pursue legal action alongside others affected by this harmful substance.

Finding out whether you qualify for a claim is an important first step.

You can use the chatbot on this page for an instant eligibility check regarding AFFF lawsuits.

The experienced firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms are here to provide the support needed to build a strong case for you — including assisting with gathering evidence and evaluating damages.

Steps for Gathering Evidence in AFFF Lawsuits

Gathering the right evidence is important to build a compelling case for an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.

While you can begin collecting information on your own, having legal guidance helps ensure nothing important is overlooked.

Evidence in AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits may include:

• Employment history related to AFFF exposure
• Medical records
• Personal statements and witness testimony
• Documentation of AFFF exposure sites
• Thyroid disease diagnosis information
• Any other proof validating exposure to AFFF chemicals

Damages in AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

When assessing damages for an AFFF thyroid disease lawsuit, it’s important to account for all the losses you’ve experienced as a result of your diagnosis.

These can include both economic and non-economic damages, all of which need careful calculation to pursue the compensation you deserve.

Damages in AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits may include:

• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Future medical care and rehabilitation expenses
• Permanent disability
• Reduced earning capacity
• Medical bills and treatment costs
• Lost income due to time off work
• Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
• Additional compensatory or punitive damages

If you have lost a loved one due to health issues caused by toxic firefighting foam, additional damages may include:

• Funeral expenses
• Loss of consortium
• Punitive damages
• Grief counseling and therapy costs

Why Hiring Experienced Firefighting Foam Attorneys for Your Claim Is Important

Seeking compensation from manufacturers of AFFF foam is a challenging process, and it’s not something you should undertake alone.

Having the right legal team ensures your interests are represented and that your rights are protected throughout the lawsuit.

The AFFF lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms work tirelessly to help establish liability and hold those responsible for AFFF exposure accountable for your health issues.

Together, we bring our experience in product liability and mass tort claims to your case, ensuring your losses are carefully evaluated and pursued.

With our support, you can focus on your health while we help you seek fair compensation for everything you’ve endured.

The experienced firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms are here to support individuals seeking legal action related to AFFF exposure.

Firefighting foam containing PFAS chemicals has been linked to serious health risks, including cancer, and lawsuits are being pursued nationwide to hold corporations accountable.

If you or a loved one has developed cancer or experienced other adverse health effects after regular exposure to firefighting foam, you may qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit and seek compensation.

Contact us today for more information.

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

AFFF exposure has been connected to a range of health risks, including cancer and other serious conditions.

We believe those impacted by these chemicals deserve to be heard, and our team is ready to help provide you with the legal resources and support you need.