25 Sep The Types of Cancer That Are Linked to AFFF

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Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used to extinguish fuel fires. It contains a group of chemicals in the family of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances commonly referred to as PFAS. Over time, these substances have been linked to some serious health problems, even cancer.

If you have been exposed to AFFF and developed cancer, you have the right to file an AFFF lawsuit. Below are the types of cancers often linked to AFFF exposure.

6 Types of Cancer That Are Linked to AFFF

There are different types of cancers linked to AFFF. They include:

• Kidney Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Pancreatic Cancer
• Liver Cancer

1. Kidney Cancer

It is one of the more common forms of cancer that has been linked to AFFF exposure. The PFAS chemicals involved in AFFF can penetrate the bloodstream and damage the kidneys. As more time goes on, this damage increases the potential to develop kidney cancer.

Individuals who have been exposed for several years are more at risk. The chemical buildup in the body can harm the kidney cells. If you were exposed to AFFF and have been diagnosed with cancer of the kidneys, it is important for you to consult an attorney.

2. Testicular Cancer

Individuals exposed to AFFF are also at risk of testicular cancer. This may result from chemicals causing hormonal imbalance, an effect giving rise to cancerous cells in the testicles. Firefighters and military personnel are at risk of AFFF exposure for extended periods.

Studies also point to a four-fold increased risk of testicular cancer among individuals who have been exposed to AFFF. These are normally young males and can be very aggressive. The prognosis is generally better when the diagnosis is early and effective treatment is provided.

3. Prostate Cancer

The other cancer that can be associated with AFFF exposure is prostate cancer. PFAS can affect the functioning aspects of prostate cells, which leads to abnormal growth. Over time, this will develop into cancer.

Several firefighters and workers in industries using AFFF have been diagnosed with prostate cancer. Prolonged prostate cancer might be slow-growing and still pose serious health risks.

If you have been exposed to AFFF and have been diagnosed with prostate cancer, you might be entitled to compensation. The legal claim will cover medical expenses and future treatment.

4. Bladder Cancer

The various chemicals in AFFF have been linked to bladder cancer. The PFAS present in the foam leads to bladder inflammation. This increases the chance of cancer. The individuals exposed for a longer period, especially in firefighting roles, are more vulnerable to it.

Symptoms of bladder cancer may include blood in the urine and frequent urination. If these signs and symptoms occur following AFFF exposure, it is necessary to consult a doctor. The earlier the diagnosis can be made, the better the possibility for effective treatment.

5. Pancreatic Cancer

Another serious cancer associated with AFFF exposure is pancreatic cancer. The pancreas produces several very important digestive enzymes, and PFAS disrupts the normal functioning of the cells inside the pancreas that may lead to cancer.

Unfortunately, pancreatic cancer is usually diagnosed at later stages of the disease, sometimes when symptoms aren’t that apparent. Hence, it is one of the deadliest forms of cancer.

6. Liver Cancer

Another serious condition linked to AFFF exposure is liver cancer. The liver filters the majority of the toxins inside your body, and PFAS damages this process.

Long-term exposure to PFAS makes one more susceptible to liver damage, which develops into cancer over time.

Liver cancer can be extremely aggressive and therefore difficult to treat. Symptoms of liver cancer include jaundice and weight loss.

If you have been diagnosed with liver cancer linked to AFFF exposure, it is important to explore your legal options. You might qualify for compensation to help cover treatment and other costs.

More Resources:

1. Shah SK, Kim S, Khan AA, Krishnan V, Lally AM, Shah PN, Alex GC, Seder CW, Liptay MJ, Geissen NM. Examination of Firefighting as an Occupational Exposure Criteria for Lung Cancer Screening. Lung. 2024 Aug 20. doi: 10.1007/s00408-024-00736-9. Epub ahead of print. Erratum in: Lung. 2024 Sep 16. doi: 10.1007/s00408-024-00747-6. PMID: 39164595.
2. Caban-Martinez AJ, Koru-Sengul T, McClure LA, Pinheiro PS, Hernandez MN, Kobetz EN, Lee DJ. Odds of developing cancer among male and female volunteer firefighters in Florida: A case-control study design. J Occup Environ Med. 2024 Jul 1. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003178. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 38955796.

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Last Updated on September 25, 2024 by Marie Benz MD FAAD