Who Qualifies for AFFF Compensation in the AFFF Lawsuits?

What is Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)?

AFFF is a firefighting foam that has been widely used since the 1960s to combat fires fueled by liquids, such as gasoline, oil, and jet fuel.

Its ability to smother fires quickly and prevent re-ignition has made it a vital resource for both civilian and military firefighting efforts.

AFFF is typically composed of water, hydrocarbon surfactants, fluorochemical surfactants, and stabilizers.

The fluorosurfactants in AFFF are classified as PFAS chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals” due to their persistence in the environment and the human body.

PFAS chemicals form a protective film over the surface of flammable liquids, making them highly effective in firefighting.

However, their resistance to breaking down has caused PFAS to accumulate in areas where AFFF is frequently used, such as military bases, airports, and training facilities.

Over time, this buildup of PFAS has led to environmental contamination, impacting soil, groundwater, and drinking water sources.

Exposure to PFAS, either through direct interaction with AFFF or by ingesting contaminated water and food, has been associated with a range of health issues.

These include an increased risk of cancer, hormonal issues, immune system disorders, and developmental challenges.

Health Dangers Associated with AFFF Firefighting Foam

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) contains PFAS chemicals, which can remain in the human body for extended periods.

Once PFAS are ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, they tend to accumulate in organs and tissues due to their resistance to breaking down.

This persistence raises concerns about the potential health risks associated with long-term exposure.

The Link Between AFFF Exposure and Cancer

A growing body of scientific research has identified links between PFAS exposure and cancer.

Certain PFAS chemicals found in AFFF have been classified as potential carcinogens, raising concerns about their impact on human health.

Cancers potentially linked to AFFF firefighting foam exposure include:

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Colon cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Rectal cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Bladder Cancer

Bladder cancer develops in the tissues of the bladder, often presenting symptoms such as blood in urine and increased urination frequency.

Emerging evidence suggests a possible link between bladder cancer and PFAS exposure from AFFF foam.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer, a diverse group of malignancies affecting breast tissue, has been frequently mentioned in connection with AFFF exposure.

Scientific research has found that PFAS exposure may increase the risk of breast cancer, with some studies suggesting up to a 13-fold increase.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer, or colorectal cancer, starts in the lining of the colon or rectum and can progress from benign polyps into invasive cancer.

Studies have linked PFAS chemicals to an elevated risk of developing colon cancer.

Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer, known medically as renal cell carcinoma, involves the abnormal growth of cells in the kidneys.

Recent research indicates that PFAS exposure may increase the likelihood of developing kidney cancer.

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer, a life-threatening malignancy, is often linked to underlying conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis.

Research suggests that PFAS exposure could contribute to the development of liver cancer by causing toxic damage to the liver’s tissues.

Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer arises in the pancreas, an organ responsible for insulin regulation and digestion.

The aggressive nature of this cancer often makes it difficult to detect in its early stages.

Evidence has shown that PFAS chemicals may contribute to oxidative stress in the pancreas, potentially leading to cancer development.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a slow-growing malignancy that affects the prostate gland.

Although research into the link between PFAS exposure and prostate cancer is still developing, some studies suggest that hormonal changes combined with PFAS exposure could play a role in the growth of prostate cancer cells.

Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer affects the rectum, the final section of the large intestine.

While further research is needed, some studies suggest a possible connection between AFFF exposure and rectal cancer, warranting ongoing investigation into this potential link.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer originates in the germ cells responsible for sperm production.

Research indicates a potential association between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of testicular cancer, potentially related to the disruption of hormonal balances in the body.

Thyroid Cancer

Thyroid cancer begins in the cells of the thyroid gland, a key organ responsible for hormone production.

There is evidence that PFAS exposure can disrupt thyroid function, leading to thyroid cancer in some cases.

This disruption may result in abnormal growths and malignancies in the thyroid gland.

Who Has Been Affected by Toxic Firefighting Foam Exposure?

Certain professions face a heightened risk of exposure to Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) due to their regular use of firefighting foam or their involvement with materials containing PFAS chemicals.

Individuals who may be at a higher risk of occupational exposure to AFFF include:

• Military personnel
• Flight deck workers
• Emergency responders in non-firefighting professions
• Workers involved in the transportation or disposal of AFFF
• Airport workers
• Municipal firefighters
• Military firefighters
• Chemical plant workers

Municipal Firefighters

Municipal firefighters are tasked with responding to fires and emergencies in urban areas and communities.

These individuals often encounter fires involving flammable liquids, such as gasoline and oil, where AFFF has traditionally been used to extinguish and control such blazes.

As a result, municipal firefighters face a much greater risk of exposure to AFFF and the associated PFAS chemicals.

Military Firefighters

On military bases and installations, military firefighters are responsible for safeguarding personnel and equipment from fire hazards.

Their exposure risk mirrors that of municipal firefighters, but they may face even greater exposure due to the extensive use of flammable fuels and chemicals on military installations.

Historically, the U.S. Military has been one of the largest users of AFFF firefighting foam, leading to increased exposure risks among military personnel.

Even now, the U.S. military makes up roughly 75% of the firefighting foam market, with the remaining market being comprised of petroleum-processing plants, municipal fire departments, and oil refineries.

Military Personnel

Beyond the firefighters themselves, other military personnel stationed on bases may also be at risk of AFFF exposure.

This can occur during training exercises, emergency responses, or through routine contact with areas where AFFF is stored and used.

The presence of AFFF on military bases makes exposure more widespread across various personnel.

Airport Workers

Airports rely on AFFF to combat potential aircraft fires, particularly those involving fuel.

Airport firefighters are specially trained to respond to aviation-related emergencies, but other airport workers, including those in emergency response roles or aircraft maintenance, may also be exposed to firefighting foam during incidents or routine operations on the airfield.

Flight Deck Crews

Flight deck crews, whether on aircraft carriers or at airports, manage aircraft operations during takeoff, landing, and maintenance.

Given the proximity to aircraft and fuel-based firefighting efforts, these workers are at risk of AFFF exposure, especially in the event of a fire or emergency on the flight deck.

Chemical Plant Employees

Certain industrial facilities, such as chemical plants, may use AFFF for fire suppression in areas where flammable liquid fires are a concern.

Workers involved in the production, storage, or handling of chemicals in these plants may come into contact with AFFF and its PFAS components, increasing their risk of exposure.

Workers Involved in the Transportation or Disposal of AFFF

The transportation and disposal of AFFF can also lead to exposure.

Individuals responsible for moving or disposing of firefighting foam materials, including truck drivers, clean-up crews, and disposal teams, must take precautions to avoid direct contact with AFFF and prevent potential environmental contamination.

Emergency Responders Outside of Firefighting Professions

In certain emergency situations, professionals from non-firefighting backgrounds, such as law enforcement, emergency medical teams, or hazardous materials units, may encounter firefighting foam during chemical spills or accidents involving flammable liquids.

If these individuals have been exposed to AFFF and experience related health issues, they may be eligible to explore legal options related to their exposure.

Criteria for Filing an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

Lawsuits related to exposure to AFFF firefighting foam are currently being filed against the manufacturers of these products.

If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and later developed health issues, you may be eligible to explore legal action.

The firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms can help assess whether you qualify for an AFFF lawsuit by evaluating your exposure, related health conditions, and other relevant factors.

You can use the chatbot on this page to instantly check if you qualify for the AFFF litigation.

Our chatbot is user-friendly, completely free, and 100% confidential.

When determining eligibility for filing an AFFF lawsuit, attorneys typically consider the following factors:

• Diagnosis of cancer or other health issues
• Available supporting evidence
• Occupational exposure to AFFF
• The extent of related damages

Evidence of Occupational Exposure

Many individuals have encountered AFFF or PFAS-containing materials as part of their work, whether in firefighting, military service, chemical plants, or other industries where firefighting foam is commonly used.

If you were exposed to AFFF firefighting foam in your occupation, you may be eligible to pursue legal action.

It’s important to gather any records related to your work history and the potential use of AFFF, as this can support your case.

Diagnosis of Cancer or Related Health Conditions

Exposure to the toxic chemicals found in firefighting foam can lead to serious health problems.

If you are considering filing an AFFF lawsuit, it’s important to collect and preserve any medical documentation that confirms your diagnosis.

Health risks linked to AFFF exposure include:

• Hormonal Imbalances: PFAS exposure may interfere with hormone regulation, affecting reproductive health and thyroid function.
• Cancer: Uncontrolled cell growth resulting in tumors that can be life-threatening.
• Immune System Disorders: PFAS can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to illnesses.
• Liver Damage: PFAS can accumulate in the liver, leading to metabolic disruptions and potential liver injury. Studies suggest prolonged exposure may cause long-term harm to liver function.
• Developmental Problems: Prenatal exposure to PFAS has been associated with developmental delays and growth issues.

Key Evidence in AFFF Firefighting Foam Cases

Strong evidence is vital for filing an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.

Typical evidence for an AFFF lawsuit may include:

• Witness testimony or personal accounts of exposure
• Employment history and records of AFFF exposure
• Medical records and diagnosis details
• Any additional documents that support your claim of exposure to firefighting foam

Potential Compensation in AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

Damages refer to the financial and emotional losses incurred due to exposure to PFAS chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam.

Potential damages in an AFFF lawsuit may include:

• Permanent disability
• Lost wages due to inability to work
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Pain and suffering, including emotional distress
• Future medical treatments and therapies
• Reduced earning potential
• Medical costs
• Loss of consortium (loss of companionship or support)
• Other compensatory damages

TruLaw: Your Law Firm for AFFF Firefighting Foam Claims

The AFFF firefighting foam lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms are currently accepting clients for firefighting foam cancer lawsuits across all fifty (50) states.

If you or a loved one were exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals in firefighting foam and later developed cancer or experienced related health risks, you may be eligible to file an AFFF lawsuit.

Use the chat on this page to instantly determine if you qualify for an AFFF lawsuit.

At TruLaw, we recognize the serious health risks associated with the AFFF exposure cited in these lawsuits.

Contact us today for more information and to explore your legal options.