AFFF Pancreatic Cancer Lawsuit [November 2024 Update] | AFFF Cancer Lawyers

What Is Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF)?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam specifically designed to suppress fires fueled by flammable liquids such as jet fuel, gasoline, and other petroleum-based products.

AFFF works by creating a blanket of foam that cuts off the oxygen supply to the fire while simultaneously cooling the fuel, making it effective in high-risk industries like aviation, petrochemicals, and military operations.

AFFF has been in use since the 1960s and has been manufactured by companies like 3M, Tyco Fire Products, and Chemguard.

AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals that are highly resistant to heat, water, and oil.

These “forever chemicals” are not only persistent in the environment but also in the human body, where they can accumulate over time.

Studies have shown that PFAS exposure is linked to serious health risks, including various types of cancers, liver damage, and immune system impairment.

A particular concern surrounding AFFF is its potential to contaminate groundwater and drinking water supplies.

Military bases, airports, and industrial sites where AFFF was heavily used have reported significant environmental contamination, leading to lawsuits and environmental cleanup efforts.

The persistent nature of PFAS in both the environment and the body raises concerns about the long-term health impacts on individuals exposed to AFFF, especially firefighters and military personnel who have come into contact with the foam regularly over the years.

This ongoing environmental and health crisis has led to numerous lawsuits against AFFF manufacturers, as well as increased regulation and the gradual phasing out of PFAS-containing foams in favor of safer alternatives.

AFFF Firefighting Foam and Pancreatic Cancer Diagnosis Risks

Several research studies have found links between PFAS exposure and cancer, specifically pancreatic cancer.

Published in January 2022 by researchers from the Indiana University School of Medicine, “Exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid leads to promotion of pancreatic cancer” found that PFAS exposure in rats resulted in a shocking increased risk for pancreatic cancer.

More research must be conducted on the link between PFAS exposure and pancreatic cancer, but the current findings have indicated a significantly elevated risk of pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

AFFF Firefighting Foam and Pancreatic Cancer Links

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has been widely used in firefighting applications, especially by military and aviation industries, to extinguish high-temperature liquid fires.

AFFF contains harmful chemicals, particularly per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have been linked to severe health complications, including cancer.

Research has indicated that exposure to PFAS may significantly increase the risk of pancreatic cancer.

These chemicals, often referred to as “forever chemicals,” do not break down easily and accumulate in the human body, potentially leading to long-term health consequences.

Studies like the one conducted at Indiana University School of Medicine have shown that PFAS exposure in animal models led to an elevated risk of pancreatic cancer, suggesting a possible link in human exposure as well.

PFAS Exposure and Health Risks: A Focus on Pancreatic Cancer

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly found in AFFF firefighting foam, are known for their resistance to degradation and their ability to accumulate in the environment and the human body.

These toxic chemicals have been associated with a number of cancers, including pancreatic cancer.

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between PFAS exposure and pancreatic cancer, initial findings point to a troubling correlation.

Individuals regularly exposed to AFFF, such as firefighters and military personnel, are particularly vulnerable to developing health issues from prolonged contact with these dangerous substances.

Studies show that PFAS exposure may promote the growth of cancerous cells in the pancreas, leading to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.

How PFAS in AFFF Foam May Impact Pancreatic Cancer Risk

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), used extensively in firefighting to combat liquid fires, contains PFAS chemicals, which are highly resistant to environmental breakdown.

These “forever chemicals” have been linked to various cancers, including pancreatic cancer, posing significant health risks to those exposed.

PFAS exposure may trigger cancer development by disrupting cellular processes and promoting tumor growth.

The potential for such toxic exposure to lead to pancreatic cancer is particularly concerning for individuals who have worked in firefighting, military, or industrial environments where AFFF foam was regularly used.

Ongoing studies continue to investigate the extent of these risks, but early research has already highlighted the dangerous implications of PFAS exposure on human health.

About Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the tissues of the pancreas, an organ located behind the stomach that plays a key role in digestion and regulating blood sugar.

This cancer is particularly aggressive and often difficult to detect in its early stages due to the pancreas’s deep location within the body.

Pancreatic cancer is often diagnosed at later stages when the cancer has spread, making treatment more challenging.

Symptoms of Pancreatic Cancer

Early symptoms of pancreatic cancer are often vague and may include abdominal pain, unexplained weight loss, and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes).

As the cancer progresses, additional symptoms may appear, such as nausea, changes in stool color, back pain, and a loss of appetite.

Because these symptoms can overlap with less serious health conditions, they are sometimes overlooked or misdiagnosed.

Complications of Pancreatic Cancer

Complications from pancreatic cancer can be severe and include liver damage, blood clots, and the spread of the cancer to other organs.

The disease also has a high potential to cause digestive issues since the pancreas is essential for producing digestive enzymes.

Blockages in the bile ducts, malnutrition, and difficulty processing fats are also common complications for those affected by this type of cancer.

Risk Factors and Causes of Pancreatic Cancer

Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing pancreatic cancer, including chronic inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis), diabetes, smoking, obesity, and a family history of the disease.

Exposure to toxic chemicals like those found in AFFF firefighting foam has also been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer.

The presence of PFAS chemicals in AFFF raises concerns about its long-term impact on human health, especially for those regularly exposed to it, such as firefighters.

Treatments for Pancreatic Cancer

Treatment options for pancreatic cancer typically include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.

The success of these treatments often depends on how early the cancer is detected.

Because pancreatic cancer is usually diagnosed in later stages, treatment is often focused on managing symptoms and improving the quality of life for the patient.

PFAS Chemicals in Firefighting Foam and Effects on Human Health

Chemical manufacturers and the US Navy, who first approved AFFF firefighting foam for use, knew about its toxic effects for decades.

Urged by the Environmental Protection Agency, the US Department of Defense finally submitted an official warning stating that the dangerous chemicals in AFFF present an increased risk for serious health problems and environmental contamination.

In a number of research studies, PFAS have been linked to an increased risk for cancer and other serious health problems.

With the number of chemicals used in firefighting foam, the health impacts of them are widespread.

The health of airport firefighters, military firefighters, chemical plant workers, and workers who transport and manufacture firefighting foam is especially at risk.

Studies on the links between AFFF Exposure and Health Problems include the following:

• A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found a statistically significant association between PFOA exposure and an increased risk of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
• Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found a positive association between PFOS exposure and breast cancer.
• The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified PFOA as a possible carcinogen, and PFOS as possibly carcinogenic to humans.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a health advisory for PFOA and PFOS, stating that long-term exposure to these chemicals above certain levels could be harmful to human health.
• Researchers at National Research Centre for Environmental Toxicology (Australia) found that firefighters were more likely to have fluorinated surfactants in their bloodstream.
• Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley studied the carcinogenic effects of PFAS on women firefighters and office workers, finding that firefighters who reported using firefighting foam in the past year had higher levels of several PFAS in their body compared to those who did not.

AFFF Environmental Contamination

AFFF firefighting foam has had a devastating environmental impact, particularly due to its contribution to PFAS contamination.

AFFF is considered the leading source of PFAS contamination in drinking water, a severe issue because PFAS chemicals, also known as “forever chemicals,” do not break down easily in the environment.

This contamination affects not only groundwater but also municipal water supplies, leading to water contamination claims being included in the broader AFFF lawsuits.

One of the most challenging aspects of addressing PFAS contamination is that these chemicals are highly water-soluble and spread rapidly through groundwater and drinking water sources, making cleanup efforts incredibly difficult.

PFAS are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down naturally and can persist in the environment for centuries, continuously exposing communities to harmful effects.

Municipal water contamination claims are an important part of AFFF lawsuits, as state governments, city officials, and water authorities have filed lawsuits to seek compensation for the extensive environmental damage caused by PFAS contamination.

These legal actions aim to address the costs of removing PFAS from public water systems and protecting the health of communities relying on these water supplies.

These agencies have joined the litigation against AFFF Manufacturers:

• State of Michigan
• State of New Hampshire
• State of Ohio
• State of Vermont
• A water district that serves Birmingham, Alabama
• Thornton, CO
• Philadelphia, PA
• La Crosse, WI
• Peshtigo, WI
• Baltimore, MD
• The Water Replenishment District of Southern California
• Camden and Point Pleasant, NJ
• The Commonwealth of Massachusetts
• Pittsboro, NC
• Fairbanks, AK
• Many other cities and local water agencies

For more updates on the AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits, visit this page.

You are also welcome to contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation to see if you qualify to file an AFFF Lawsuit today.

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

AFFF Lawsuits are currently consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the District of South Carolina, where thousands of claims are being handled.

These lawsuits primarily involve individuals, including military personnel and firefighters, as well as municipal water authorities, who allege exposure to toxic PFAS chemicals found in AFFF firefighting foam.

The MDL allows for more efficient management of the numerous cases being filed due to the widespread use and harmful effects of AFFF.

Defendants, including major manufacturers such as 3M and Tyco Fire Products, have made multiple attempts to dismiss the claims, but litigation remains ongoing.

Plaintiffs in these cases seek compensation for health issues, including cancer, caused by PFAS exposure, as well as environmental contamination claims.

If you or a loved one have suffered from AFFF exposure, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to determine if you qualify for an AFFF lawsuit.

Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Settlement Amounts

It is currently too early to determine the exact average settlement for the AFFF lawsuits, as the litigation is still ongoing and settlement figures have not yet been finalized.

Based on similar mass tort cases involving environmental contamination and personal injury from toxic chemical exposure, it is estimated that AFFF settlements may range between $150,000 and $300,000 per claim.

These estimates are speculative and based on past cases with similar characteristics.

The final settlement amounts in AFFF firefighting foam cases will depend on various factors, such as the severity of health complications, the strength of the evidence linking AFFF exposure to the plaintiff’s condition, and the extent of environmental contamination.

These numbers may vary widely for individual cases as the litigation progresses.

As more cases reach resolution, and as further data becomes available, more specific settlement numbers will be published.

It is important to note that these estimates are not a guarantee of compensation, and each case will be evaluated on its own merits.

Do You Qualify to File an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?

Exposure to AFFF firefighting foam can have devastating impacts on the health and lives of individuals and their families.

The toxic chemicals in AFFF, particularly PFAS, have been linked to severe health issues, including various forms of cancer.

Those affected by AFFF exposure have often suffered through no fault of their own, as manufacturers of these firefighting foams were aware of the risks associated with PFAS but failed to adequately warn the public.

If you or a loved one have been exposed to PFAS from AFFF Firefighting Foam and were subsequently diagnosed with cancer or complications, you could be eligible for compensation through an AFFF lawsuit.

Contact us for a free consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to see if you qualify for an AFFF Foam Lawsuit instantly.

Hiring an experienced AFFF attorney is essential to navigating the complexities of firefighting foam lawsuits.

These attorneys play a critical role in gathering the necessary evidence, such as medical records and employment histories, to establish a strong case linking AFFF exposure to health complications like cancer.

They help victims assess the damages they’ve suffered, ensuring that all economic and non-economic losses are properly accounted for in the claim.

An AFFF lawyer will guide you through the legal process, handling settlement negotiations or trial preparations to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve for the damages caused by AFFF exposure.

Gathering Evidence For AFFF Lawsuits

Evidence in an AFFF Lawsuit is extremely important.

Your AFFF lawyers with help you determine what evidence is relevant to your AFFF Lawsuit.

Evidence in AFFF lawsuits may include:

• Medical records
• Cancer diagnosis information
• Employment records
• History of AFFF exposure
• Personal and witness testimony
• Any other information validating exposure to firefighting foam

Damages In Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

Firefighting foam cancer lawyers will help victims assess their damages.

Damages refer to the total economic and non-economic losses a person has suffered due to AFFF exposure.

Experienced firefighting foam lawyers, with the help of the claimant, will calculate your damages and demand compensation from the defendants.

Typical damages for AFFF foam lawsuits may include:

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

Why Hiring Experienced Firefighting Foam Attorneys For Your Claim Is Important

Contact an AFFF attorney with experience in toxic tort, chemical exposure, and personal injury lawsuits to discuss your potential case.

An experienced law firm will work diligently through the civil litigation process to prove liability and help ensure your case is as strong as possible.

TorHoerman Law understands that your AFFF Lawsuit may involve cancer diagnosis and other hardships, and we are sensitive to the needs of our clients.

Our law firm will work tirelessly to ensure that you and your family are fully compensated for exposure to firefighting foam and the health issues related to AFFF exposure.

Any law firm you contact for your claim should be willing to go the extra mile to secure compensation that you are rightfully owed.

Always take the choice of a lawyer with extreme discretion.

TorHoerman Law: Your Toxic Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawyers

The AFFF Lawyers at TorHoerman Law have won over $4 billion in prior mass tort cases and personal injury litigations.

Our AFFF Lawyers are known for holding large corporations and chemical manufacturers liable for the harm they’ve caused, and securing financial compensation for people harmed at no fault of their own.

If you or a loved one have developed cancer or other adverse health outcomes after being regularly exposed to firefighting foam, you may be eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit and seek financial compensation.

Contact our experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers today for a free consultation.

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