FAQ: Does AFFF Cause Cancer?

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is commonly used to combat flammable liquid fires.

Unfortunately, many of these foams contain toxic chemicals known as perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

These chemicals are highly resistant to heat, oil, and water, which makes them effective in firefighting, but they have also raised influential concerns due to their persistence in the environment and potential health risks.

PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” have been shown to contaminate air, water, soil, and even food sources.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has identified serious potential health risks from exposure to these substances.

Studies have found traces of PFAS chemicals in the bloodstream of both humans and animals, which raises further alarms about their widespread impact.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported that exposure to PFAS has been linked to several health problems, including liver damage, thyroid disease, reproductive issues, and weakened immune system function.

PFAS can enter the body through ingestion, inhalation, or skin contact, increasing the risk of serious health consequences.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) echoes these concerns, citing animal studies that reveal PFAS can cause liver and immune system damage, birth defects, and developmental delays.

These studies also indicate that animals exposed to PFAS may experience more severe health effects than humans, including neonatal deaths.

Exposure to PFAS-containing firefighting foam has been associated with several types of cancer, including:

• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Liver cancer
• Leukemia
• Bladder cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Lymphoma
• Pancreatic cancer
• Testicular cancer

Research has shown that high levels of PFAS exposure may lead to the following health concerns:

• Elevated cholesterol levels
• Altered liver enzyme function
• Increased risk of pre-eclampsia in pregnant women
• Slightly reduced birth weights in infants
• Lower vaccine responses in children

While there is still much to learn about the full range of PFAS-related health effects, scientific studies continue to explore the potential risks posed by these chemicals.

Many health, environmental, and governmental organizations are investigating these risks to better understand how to manage and regulate PFAS exposure.

Further actions are being taken, including initiatives by the National Firefighter Registry (NFR), which was established in 2018 by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH).

The registry aims to study the link between firefighters exposed to AFFF and the development of cancer, which will help us understand the true extent of these long-term health impacts.

Exposure to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) can lead to a variety of side effects that impact different areas of the body.

The severity of these effects often depends on factors such as an individual’s sensitivity and the length of exposure.

Irritation to Skin and Eyes

Direct contact with AFFF can result in skin irritation, causing redness, itching, and rashes.

In more severe cases, chemical burns may occur.

If AFFF comes into contact with the eyes, it can lead to irritation, redness, itching, and even temporary vision issues.

Breathing Difficulties and Respiratory Issues

Inhalation of AFFF foam or its vapors can irritate the respiratory system.

This may cause symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, and shortness of breath.

For individuals with pre-existing respiratory conditions, these symptoms could become more severe.

Gastrointestinal Problems

Accidentally ingesting water or food contaminated with AFFF can lead to gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea.

In cases of prolonged exposure, these symptoms may become chronic.

Immediate medical attention is advised if ingestion occurs, as internal damage is possible.

Neurological Symptoms

AFFF exposure may also result in neurological symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, memory loss, confusion, and difficulty concentrating.

In some cases, these symptoms can interfere with daily activities and reduce overall quality of life.

More severe or prolonged exposure may lead to lasting neurological effects.

Research has shown a connection between exposure to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) and several types of cancer.

The chemicals in AFFF, particularly PFAS, have been linked to cancer development.

Understanding which cancers may result from AFFF exposure is important, as early detection and medical intervention can improve outcomes for those affected.

Kidney Cancer

There is evidence that AFFF exposure increases the risk of kidney cancer.

PFAS chemicals, present in AFFF, can accumulate in the kidneys over time, potentially leading to the formation of malignant tumors.

In a study published by the National Cancer Institute, individuals with higher levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) in their blood were shown to have more than twice the risk of developing kidney cancer than those with lower concentrations.

Bladder Cancer

Prolonged exposure to PFAS chemicals in AFFF may also increase the likelihood of developing bladder cancer.

These toxic substances can build up in the bladder, causing cellular changes that may lead to cancer.

A 3M study found an increase in bladder cancer mortality among workers who were frequently exposed to perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), a type of PFAS.

Liver Cancer

There is growing research suggesting a link between AFFF exposure and liver cancer.

The liver’s role in filtering toxins can be compromised by PFAS accumulation, leading to the potential for cancerous changes.

Some animal studies suggest that exposure to these chemicals can increase the risk of liver damage and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), particularly by disrupting key metabolic processes.

Prostate Cancer

PFAS exposure has been associated with a higher risk of prostate cancer in men.

While the exact mechanisms are still under investigation, the evidence indicates that PFAS chemicals may play a role in the development and progression of prostate tumors.

A study points to a powerful relationship between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of prostate cancer.

Testicular Cancer

Some studies have found a potential link between PFAS exposure and an elevated risk of testicular cancer.

For example, an ecological study found that men living in areas contaminated with PFAS had a higher likelihood of developing testicular cancer.

However, further research is needed to confirm this connection.

Colorectal Cancer

There is also evidence that AFFF exposure may increase the risk of colorectal cancer.

PFAS chemicals ingested through contaminated food or water can accumulate in the colon, potentially leading to the development of cancer cells.

A study showed that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) could promote colorectal cancer cell invasion, suggesting a possible link between PFAS exposure and colorectal cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer

AFFF exposure has been associated with a higher risk of pancreatic cancer.

The accumulation of PFAS in the body may disrupt pancreatic function, potentially contributing to the onset of cancer.

A study published in Carcinogenesis found that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) exposure could promote pancreatic cancer by increasing pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN), a precursor to cancer.

Thyroid Cancer

PFAS chemicals in AFFF have also been linked to thyroid cancer.

These substances can interfere with thyroid hormone production, potentially leading to cancer.

A study published in the Toxics journal highlights that PFAS exposure can alter thyroid hormone physiology and contribute to cancer development through immune system disruption and oxidative damage.

In addition to the heightened risk of cancer, exposure to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) can lead to a range of non-cancerous health effects.

These issues can greatly affect a person’s quality of life and overall well-being.

Eye and Skin Problems

Exposure to AFFF may result in various eye and skin conditions, depending on the duration and level of contact.

PFAS chemicals in AFFF can cause persistent eye irritation, including conjunctivitis, as well as skin issues like rashes, itching, and even chemical burns.

Continued exposure can lead to chronic dermatological discomfort and long-term skin problems.

Endocrine Disruption and Hormonal Imbalances

PFAS chemicals have been linked to endocrine disruption, which affects the body’s hormonal balance.

This can lead to fertility challenges, complications during pregnancy, and other hormone-related health problems.

The longer the exposure to these chemicals, the higher the risk of developing hormonal imbalances and related conditions.

Liver and Kidney Damage

Long-term exposure to AFFF can result in damage to the liver and kidneys, organs that play an important role in filtering toxins from the body.

Over time, the accumulation of PFAS chemicals can impair the function of these organs, potentially leading to irreversible health consequences if the damage is left untreated.

Reproductive and Developmental Issues

AFFF exposure may also affect reproductive health and the development of infants and children.

Studies suggest potential links between PFAS exposure and reduced fertility, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and developmental challenges in children.

These impacts can have lasting effects on both mothers and babies.

Immune System Impairment

PFAS chemicals found in AFFF can weaken the immune system, making individuals more prone to infections and autoimmune disorders.

Reduced immune function can increase the likelihood of developing various illnesses, and the extent of immune system damage may depend on the level and duration of exposure to these harmful chemicals.

Several groups of individuals face a heightened risk of PFAS exposure due to their occupations or proximity to locations where AFFF firefighting foam is regularly used.

Military Firefighters and Personnel

The U.S. military played an important role in the development of aqueous film-forming foam (AF) in the 1960s, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

Since then, military bases have utilized AFFF in both training exercises and operational settings.

As a result, military firefighters and other military personnel who were exposed to AFFF during their service may face an increased risk of developing health conditions associated with these chemicals.

Firefighters and First Responders

Civilian firefighters and first responders are also frequently exposed to AFFF during firefighting and emergency response situations.

While they are trained to use protective gear and follow safety measures, repeated and prolonged exposure to AF chemicals can still result in substantial health risks for firefighters.

Even with safety protocols in place, the toxic nature of AFFF can lead to severe health complications over time.

Airport and Industrial Workers

AFFF is commonly used in airports and industrial environments to manage fuel-based fires.

Workers in these settings — such as aircraft rescue personnel, industrial firefighters, and those in similar roles — may face substantial exposure to the toxic chemicals present in AFFF.

While safety precautions are necessary, the potential for exposure remains high in these professions.

Communities Near Areas With High AFFF Usage

Residents living near locations with frequent AFFF usage, such as fire training facilities, airports, chemical plants, or industrial sites, may experience indirect exposure.

This can occur through contaminated water sources or environmental pollution, as the chemicals from AFFF can enter rivers, lakes, and groundwater, or be released into the air.

The long-term effects of AFFF contamination can have serious health implications for these communities.

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.

If you have been exposed to AFFF and subsequently developed cancer or other related illnesses, it’s important to explore your legal options.

Working with qualified AFFF attorneys can help you better understand your rights and take appropriate action.

The firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms have experience with AFFF-related claims and can help guide you through this challenging process.

We can assist with evaluating your potential claim, gathering the necessary evidence, and filing your claim in the AFFF MDL.

If you are eligible, you may be able to seek compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from AFFF exposure.

Use the chat on this page for an instant case evaluation to quickly determine if you qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit.

There are currently thousands of AFFF-related cases pending, with many individual lawsuits consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL).

The AFFF MDL is being overseen by the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina.

Exposure to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) has been linked to serious health risks, including an increased likelihood of developing cancer and other related illnesses.

If you’ve been exposed to AFFF and developed cancer or other health conditions, you may be eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit.

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

At TruLaw, we work to ensure that individuals affected by AFFF exposure receive expert guidance tailored to their unique situation.

While the legal process can be challenging, our team is committed to helping you explore your options.

For any additional information or to discuss your potential claim, don’t hesitate to reach out.