AFFF Lawsuit: Who Is Eligible for the AFFF Cancer Lawsuit?

Who Has Been Exposed to AFFF Firefighting Foam?

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), developed by the U.S. Navy and 3M in the 1960s, was designed to quickly suppress “class B” fires caused by jet fuel, gasoline, and other flammable liquids.

The U.S. military became one of its largest users, with personnel in the Air Force and Navy frequently exposed during fire suppression and training, especially in hangars and on ships.

AFFF was used extensively at military bases and nearby communities, contributing to widespread PFAS contamination.

Beyond the military, firefighters, airport workers, and industrial employees in sectors like oil refining and chemical processing also faced exposure during firefighting and training exercises, as well as in AFFF manufacturing and disposal processes.

Active and Former Military Personnel

Throughout the decades, Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) was widely used across multiple branches of the U.S. military, exposing countless service members to harmful PFAS chemicals.

The Air Force, Navy, Army, Marine Corps, and Coast Guard all relied on AFFF for its ability to rapidly suppress fires involving fuel and other flammable liquids.

Fire suppression systems, training exercises, and emergency responses at military bases and aboard ships were common points of exposure.

This foam was frequently used in critical areas like aircraft hangars, runways, and naval shipyards, where military personnel often faced direct contact with AFFF during regular operations.

Exposure to AFFF wasn’t just limited to military firefighters; it affected various occupations across the military.

Many of these service members now face serious health risks due to prolonged exposure to AFFF.

Military occupations at risk of AFFF exposure include:

• Aircraft rescue and firefighting personnel
• Flight line and hangar crew members
• Navy and Coast Guard sailors aboard ships using AFFF in fire suppression systems
• Air Force crash response teams
• Vehicle and equipment maintenance personnel involved in AFFF cleanup
• Marine Corps and Army personnel involved in hazmat or emergency response teams
• Environmental health and safety officers tasked with managing AFFF-related incidents
• Several other military occupations and positions

This broad use of AFFF across military operations has led to significant contamination at hundreds of military sites, putting both active and former personnel at risk of developing severe health conditions from PFAS exposure.

Airport Workers

Airport workers have faced significant exposure to AFFF through routine firefighting and emergency response activities.

Both commercial and military airports have long used AFFF to suppress fires fueled by jet fuel and other flammable liquids.

Many U.S. airports, particularly those that share facilities with or are located near military bases, continue to be sites of PFAS contamination due to decades of AFFF use.

Airport fire crews have regularly trained with AFFF, while maintenance personnel often handled and serviced fire suppression systems, putting them at risk of prolonged contact with these toxic chemicals.

Exposure may occur during fire emergencies, training exercises, and equipment maintenance, leading to potential health issues for workers. As awareness of PFAS risks grows, airports are now phasing out AFFF, but the legacy of contamination remains.

Airport occupations at risk of AFFF exposure include:

• Airport rescue and firefighting personnel
• Maintenance staff responsible for firefighting equipment
• Aircraft fueling and ground crew members involved in AFFF training
• Environmental safety officers managing AFFF spills and contamination

Given the overlap between military and civilian airport use, workers at these sites may also have been indirectly exposed to PFAS chemicals from military operations​.

Firefighters and First Responders

Firefighters and first responders have faced extensive exposure to AFFF, particularly during fire suppression activities involving hazardous fuels.

AFFF has been used in fire departments nationwide to extinguish flammable liquid fires.

AFFF was not only applied during real emergencies but also in training exercises, leaving firefighters at risk of absorbing PFAS chemicals through their skin and respiratory systems.

Fire stations and training facilities where AFFF was used regularly have now been identified as significant sources of PFAS contamination.

In addition to AFFF exposure, many firefighters have also come into contact with PFAS through their protective firefighter gear.

Firefighting gear is often treated with toxic forever chemicals to improve resistance to heat, water, and chemicals, further increasing the risk of exposure.

Those who developed cancer or other severe health issues after prolonged exposure to AFFF firefighting foams or PFAS-containing firefighter gear may be eligible to file a personal injury lawsuit within the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL).

Other Populations Potentially Exposed to AFFF Firefighting Foam

Beyond firefighters and military personnel, other populations may have been indirectly exposed to AFFF.

These groups include workers in industries like oil refineries, chemical plants, and hazmat operations, where AFFF was used to suppress hazardous fires.

Additionally, individuals involved in the manufacture and disposal of AFFF may have been exposed to PFAS during production or waste handling.

Environmental contamination from improper disposal methods, such as incineration, may also have led to secondary PFAS exposure for nearby communities through water contamination.

While these individuals have a higher risk of exposure, it is not always clear whether they qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit, especially if direct contact with AFFF foam wasn’t part of their case.

Eligibility is generally based on clear evidence of direct exposure to AFFF, and those affected should consult with a lawyer to determine their specific qualifications.

Our experienced Firefighting Foam Lawyers can help individuals determine whether they are eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit.

Contact an AFFF Personal Injury Lawyer from TorHoerman Law today, or use the chatbot on this page to find out if you’re eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit instantly.

Health Risks Linked to AFFF Firefighting Foam

AFFF and PFAS may persist in the human body for extended periods.

When PFAS are ingested, inhaled, or absorbed through the skin, they may accumulate in various organs and tissues.

PFAS do not break down easily, leading to their prolonged presence in bodily systems.

PFAS chemicals can accumulate in various organ systems, causing an array of health issues after long-term exposure.

AFFF Exposure and Cancer Risk

A growing body of scientific research — including studies by the Environmental Protection Agency — has shown a concerning link between PFAS exposure and cancer.

Studies have identified certain PFAS as potential carcinogens, including those present in AFFF firefighting foam.

Cancers potentially linked to the toxic chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam 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 is a malignancy that specifically targets the inner layers of the bladder, leading to symptoms like blood in urine and frequent urination.

Emerging evidence has shown a possible connection between this type of cancer and AFFF foam exposure.

Breast Cancer

One common cancer mentioned in AFFF firefighting foam cases is breast cancer.

Breast cancer is a diverse group of malignancies that arise from various tissues in the breast.

Many studies have already established the link between PFAS and this particular cancer.

In fact, scientific research has found that exposure to PFAS chemicals may increase the risk of breast cancer by up to 13 times.

Colon Cancer

Colon cancer/colorectal cancer is a malignancy that forms in the lining of the colon or rectum, often starting as benign polyps but can develop into invasive cancer.

Color cancer risk has been linked to PFAS chemicals in scientific studies.

Kidney Cancer

Renal cell carcinoma — commonly known as kidney cancer — is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the kidneys.

Recent research indicates a growing connection between toxic firefighting foam exposure and an increased likelihood of developing kidney cancer.

Liver Cancer

Liver cancer is a life-threatening condition where malignant cells grow uncontrollably in the liver’s tissues, often linked to conditions like hepatitis or cirrhosis.

Studies have also shown a potential correlation between AFFF exposure and an elevated risk of liver cancer.

The damage to the organ caused by PFAS accumulation can escalate into malignant cancer growth.

Pancreatic Cancer

The pancreas is an important organ that regulates insulin levels and aids in digestion.

Pancreatic cancer is an aggressive malignancy that starts in the cells of the pancreas, frequently remaining undetected until advanced stages due to its hidden location.

There is evidence showing how PFAS chemicals can trigger oxidative stress in the pancreas in mice, which may eventually result in developing cancer.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a slow-growing malignancy that forms in the prostate tissue and may affect urinary function, most common among older men.

Although research on the link between AFFF exposure and prostate cancer remains limited, some studies have suggested a potential connection.

It is hypothesized that hormonal changes, in combination with a high-fat diet and exposure to PFAS, may contribute to the growth of malignant cells in this part of the male reproductive system.

Rectal Cancer

Rectal cancer refers to the abnormal growth of malignant cells in the rectum, the lower part of the large intestine.

While the specific association between AFFF exposure and rectal cancer remains an area of ongoing investigation, some research has indicated a possible link, necessitating further studies to understand the potential risks involved.

Testicular Cancer

Testicular cancer typically originates in the germ cells, which develop into male sperm.

Studies have suggested potential links between PFAS exposure and an increased risk of testicular cancer, especially with how the chemical affects hormone production and hormonal levels in the organ.

Thyroid Cancer

As a chief producer of many hormones, the thyroid gland is especially susceptible to the effects of AFFF foam.

Thyroid cancer is a type of malignancy that begins in the follicular cells of the thyroid gland and may result in lumps or changes in voice, with several subtypes varying in aggressiveness.

Thyroid cancer refers to the abnormal growth of malignant cells in this organ, which is located in the neck.

There is evidence of PFAS causing this disease, especially after the chemical disrupts normal thyroid function.

Other Health Problems Linked to AFFF and PFAS Exposure

While cancer is a significant concern linked to AFFF exposure, many individuals also face a wide range of other health problems related to PFAS chemicals.

These human health issues may affect various organs and systems within the body, causing chronic conditions that can deeply impact an individual’s quality of life.

Research continues to explore the full scope of PFAS-related health issues, but the evidence already suggests that many conditions are linked to long-term exposure.

Some of the non-cancer health problems associated with AFFF and PFAS exposure include:

• Ulcerative colitis
• Hormonal imbalances and thyroid disease
• Liver damage and elevated cholesterol levels
• Immune system suppression
• Reproductive and fertility issues
• Kidney damage and developmental problems in children

Overview of the AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits address the widespread harm caused by PFAS chemicals found in AFFF, which have been linked to serious health conditions such as cancer, thyroid disease, and other long-term illnesses.

AFFF Lawsuits claim that manufacturers, despite knowing the risks of PFAS exposure, failed to adequately warn users, including firefighters, military personnel, and industrial workers.

As a result, many individuals are now pursuing legal action to seek compensation for the health and environmental damages caused by prolonged contact with these toxic chemicals.

The legal process surrounding AFFF Lawsuits has been consolidated into a multidistrict litigation (MDL) in the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina.

The MDL streamlines pre-trial proceedings for thousands of cases, allowing for more efficient handling of shared evidence and legal arguments.

It is designed to resolve common questions of fact, such as the responsibility of manufacturers and the extent of the health risks associated with PFAS exposure.

AFFF bellwether trials in the MDL will serve as test cases to gauge how future litigation might unfold.

Bellwether trials help establish benchmarks for settlements and can guide the direction of ongoing negotiations. Plaintiffs seek compensation for a wide range of damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and the emotional and physical toll caused by exposure.

The AFFF Lawsuits aim to hold PFAS manufacturers accountable for knowingly exposing individuals to harmful chemicals, while also addressing the long-term environmental impact of PFAS contamination at military sites, airports, and other industrial locations.

The AFFF litigation not only provides a path to compensation for those affected but also pushes for greater regulatory oversight and corporate responsibility in the use of hazardous chemicals.

AFFF Lawsuit Settlement Amounts

Although there have not yet been finalized settlements in the AFFF Lawsuits, estimates suggest that AFFF Lawsuit Settlement Amounts could range from $40,000 to $300,000 or more per individual.

These projections are based on previous mass tort cases, but they are not guaranteed amounts.

Each case is unique, and potential settlements will depend on factors such as the extent of PFAS exposure, the severity of the health effects, and the strength of the evidence provided.

As the multidistrict litigation (MDL) progresses, bellwether trials will help establish potential settlement ranges, and more concrete figures will likely emerge.

However, it’s important to understand that these early estimates are merely rough guidelines.

For a more detailed understanding of potential compensation, individuals should consult with an experienced AFFF attorney to evaluate the specifics of their case.

TorHoerman Law is actively working to help clients file AFFF Lawsuits and seek compensation.

Reach out to our law firm for a free consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the AFFF Lawsuit.

Eligibility for Filing an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit

Personal injury claims for exposure to AFFF firefighting foam are being filed against PFAS manufacturers.

If you or a loved one were exposed to AFFF and subsequently developed health problems, you may be eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit.

An experienced firefighting foam attorney can help determine whether you qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit, assessing your exposure, related health issues, and more.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

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

Our chatbot is free, easy-to-use, and 100% confidential.

AFFF Lawyers typically assess the following elements when determining eligibility to file an AFFF Lawsuit:

• Occupational exposure to AFFF
• Cancer diagnosis or related health issues
• Available evidence
• Related damages

Proof of Occupational Exposure

Countless individuals have been exposed to AFFF or PFAS-containing materials as part of their job in firefighting, military service, chemical plants, and other industries where AFFF is used or handled.

If you have experienced occupational exposure to AFFF firefighting foam, you may be eligible to file an AFFF Lawsuit.

It’s important that you gather any evidence related to your exposure history and your employment that involved the use of firefighting foam.

This proof may exist in various forms, including employment records showing where and when you worked in environments where AFFF was present.

Other important evidence could include witness testimony from coworkers, documentation of firefighting training exercises, or records of equipment maintenance involving AFFF.

Medical Records Showing Related Health Issues

When filing an AFFF Lawsuit, medical records play a key role in connecting health problems to PFAS exposure.

Detailed medical records help demonstrate the development of serious illnesses after contact with AFFF firefighting foam, especially for those working in firefighting, military service, or other high-exposure industries.

The more detailed and thorough your medical history is, the stronger your claim can be.

Medical professionals often assess the timeline of exposure alongside the onset of symptoms, which helps clarify whether PFAS exposure may have contributed to your health conditions.

It’s essential to gather comprehensive medical records from your healthcare providers to support your case.

An experienced AFFF Lawyer and their legal team can also help you gather, retain, and interpret crucial medical evidence.

These records will help explain the link between your health issues and the toxic chemicals in AFFF.

Key medical records that may support your case include:

• Diagnosis reports showing cancer or related illnesses
• Blood tests indicating elevated levels of PFAS in the bloodstream
• Treatment records documenting procedures or therapies for PFAS-related conditions
• Onset of symptoms and health changes noted in physician’s notes
• Specialist evaluations linking health issues to occupational exposure

Evidence in AFFF Lawsuits

Considering the information above, it goes without saying that evidence is extremely important in filing AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits.

As mentioned, your attorney can help you gather and retain evidence, but this is a step in the process you can begin on your own.

Typical evidence in an AFFF Lawsuit 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 AFFF Lawsuits

Damages refer to the total amount of losses, economic and non-economic, incurred as a result of exposure to PFAS chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam.

After determining the extent of damages, AFFF Lawyers can help calculate the total compensation you may be entitled to in a lawsuit.

This process involves carefully reviewing medical expenses, lost wages, and ongoing health care needs, along with considering the emotional toll and long-term effects of PFAS exposure.

By gathering the necessary evidence and working with medical experts, we can create a thorough assessment of your losses.

Our goal is to ensure that you receive adequate compensation to address both your current and future needs.

Damages in an AFFF Lawsuit 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

TorHoerman Law: Your Firefighting Foam Law Firm

Our attorneys are accepting clients for firefighting foam cancer lawsuits in all 50 states.

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

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the AFFF lawsuit instantly.

We understand the severity of the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits and the health risks related to exposure.

Our firefighting foam attorneys are here to represent you throughout the AFFF litigation and advocate for your legal rights.

Reach out to us for more information.