The Danger of Fire-Fighting Foam

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of fire suppressant used by civilian and military firefighters at chemical plants, oil rigs, navy ships, and aviation facilities. Exposure to this has been linked to cancer and many other serious conditions.

Used to combat flammable liquid fires, AFFF was extremely useful. Unfortunately, while it may have saved lives at the scene, it may have also cost lives over time.

A personal injury attorney at Chaffin Luhana could protect your rights if your condition resulted from this exposure. We can help you receive the compensation you deserve for your AFFF Foam Lawsuit.

What is AFFF?

AFFF contains per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS. While these man-made chemicals have been used in various consumer products for decades, two of these compounds, perfluorooctane acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), are present in AFFF. PFOA and PFOS are known carcinogens.

Exposure areas

While firefighters and military personnel working with the chemical are most vulnerable, so are those living or working in areas where it was used or stored. Those handling it during their careers have had direct exposure, while many people are indirectly exposed. The most likely sites for contamination include:

  • Chemical plants
  • Chemical storage facilities
  • Firefighter training grounds
  • Military airports
  • Oil refineries

If there was an aircraft crash site in your vicinity from 1970 on, that would be another potential hot spot. Also, these substances may leach into the soil and groundwater at these sites.

PFAS exposure may occur via skin absorption, inhalation, or even oral ingestion from food grown in contaminated soil. There is no biodegrading of PFAS, so they remain in the soil or groundwater permanently.

Bodily Build-up Results

In addition, PFAS last in the body for decades. These toxins build up within the tissues and may eventually result in malignancies and other diseases.

Types of cancer associated with PFAS include:

  • Bladder
  • Kidney
  • Leukemia
  • Lymphoma
  • Multiple myeloma
  • Pancreas
  • Prostate
  • Testicular
  • Tumors of the neuroendocrine system

In addition, it is linked to ulcerative colitis and various thyroid conditions. There is an added risk of:

  • Asthma
  • Increased cholesterol
  • Liver damage

PFAS are also linked to changes in fetal and child development. They may cause fertility problems and damage the immune system. Pregnant women with high levels of PFAS are at increased risk of potentially fatal hypertension and pre-eclampsia.

Contact us today

If you or a loved one suspect that cancer or another serious condition is due to AFFF exposure, contact us. Call or text 24/7 or fill out our online contact form to arrange a free consultation.

As we work on a contingency basis, there is no fee unless you collect damages. Our attorneys have recovered more than $1 billion in settlements and verdicts for clients. We are also experienced and compassionate; our core value is “Doing Good by Doing Right.”