AFFF Exposure Symptoms: Firefighting Foam Linked to Cancer

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) has been used for decades in firefighting to suppress and extinguish flammable liquid fires.

Commonly found in settings such as military bases, airports, manufacturing plants, and fire stations, AFFF remains a standard tool in many industrial and public safety environments.

However, recent research has shown a concerning link between the toxic chemicals present in AFFF and the development of cancer and other serious health conditions.

The chemicals used in some AFFF products, particularly fluorosurfactants, have been identified as potential carcinogens and toxicants.

These substances pose significant human health risks, leading to growing concerns about long-term exposure to AFFF.

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), also known as Class B firefighting foam, is a combination of water, fluorochemical surfactants, foam stabilizers, and other additives.

When applied to a flammable liquid fire, AFFF forms a thin film on the surface of the liquid, effectively suppressing the fire by creating a barrier between the fuel and oxygen.

This film not only extinguishes the fire but also acts as a cooling layer, helping to prevent re-ignition.

Due to its effectiveness, AFFF firefighting foam has been used in various industries and applications, including:

• Military bases
• Manufacturing and chemical plants
• Highway emergency response teams
• Oil refineries and bulk fuel storage facilities
• Airports
• Fire departments
• Oil tankers and offshore platforms
• Flammable liquid storage and processing sites

While AFFF has been a trusted tool in fire safety for decades, many AFFF products contain chemicals that pose potential health risks.

These concerns have led to growing scrutiny of its use in recent years.

Certain brands of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) contain per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of synthetic chemicals valued for their resistance to water, heat, chemicals, and friction.

These properties make PFAS chemicals effective in firefighting foams, as they aid in quickly suppressing flammable liquid fires.

Fluorosurfactants, a specific type of PFAS, are often used in AFFF to enhance the foam’s ability to spread across the surface of a fire, effectively lowering surface tension and increasing fire suppression.

However, certain fluorosurfactants, like perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), have raised considerable concerns due to their persistence in the environment and potential human health risks.

Both the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) have issued warnings about the potential dangers of PFAS exposure.

Due to their widespread use, PFAS chemicals have been detected in the environment, including soil, air, drinking water, and even in fish and food sources.

The EPA has also reported that traces of these chemicals can be found in the blood samples of both humans and animals, raising additional concerns.

Furthermore, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has highlighted the potential impact of PFAS on the immune system, signaling a need for caution.

In response, several government agencies have launched studies to assess and reduce the health risks of AFFF exposure.

While research is ongoing to fully grasp the effects of PFAS chemicals, the efforts of governmental and environmental agencies have helped bring greater awareness to the potential hazards linked to AFFF exposure and PFAS contamination.

Exposure to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) or the PFAS chemicals within it can occur through inhalation, ingestion, or skin contact, potentially leading to a variety of health issues.

The severity and nature of symptoms often depend on the duration and level of exposure.

Some potential symptoms associated with AFFF exposure include:

• Endocrine disruption: PFAS chemicals can interfere with hormone regulation, potentially leading to hormonal imbalances, reproductive issues, or developmental challenges.
• Respiratory issues: Inhalation of AFFF foam or PFAS chemicals may result in coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest tightness.
• Kidney problems: Studies suggest that PFAS exposure could impact kidney function, potentially causing symptoms like reduced urine output, swelling in the legs or ankles, and general fatigue.
• Liver damage: Prolonged exposure to PFAS has been linked to liver toxicity, which can manifest as jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), fatigue, and abdominal pain.
• Immune system effects: Some evidence indicates that PFAS exposure may weaken the immune system, making individuals more prone to infections and illnesses.
• Skin reactions: Exposure to AFFF or PFAS may cause skin irritation, redness, itching, or the development of a rash.
• Gastrointestinal discomfort: Individuals exposed to AFFF may experience symptoms such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Eye irritation: Contact with firefighting foam can lead to redness, dryness, itching, tearing, or even eye pain.

If you have been exposed to AFFF or PFAS-containing firefighting foam and experience any of these symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention promptly and consult with a healthcare professional.

Several organizations, including the National Cancer Institute’s Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG), have conducted research linking regular exposure to firefighting foam with an increased risk of various cancers.

Below, we highlight some of the primary types of cancer associated with AFFF exposure, which include but are not limited to:

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Colorectal cancer
• Endometrial cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Leukemia
• Liver cancer
• Lymphoma
• Mesothelioma
• Multiple Myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Ovarian cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer

Bladder Cancer

Studies have shown a higher incidence of bladder cancer in individuals exposed to AFFF.

Toxic chemicals in AFFF can enter the bloodstream and accumulate in the bladder, potentially leading to the development of cancerous cells.

This risk is particularly prevalent in areas with contaminated drinking water due to AFFF runoff.

Colorectal Cancer

Exposure to AFFF has also been associated with an increased risk of colorectal cancer.

The chemicals in AFFF may affect the lining of the colon and rectum, leading to cancerous tumors.

PFAS exposure is believed to contribute to the development of both colon and rectal cancers.

Kidney Cancer

Research suggests a potential link between AFFF exposure and kidney cancer.

The chemicals in AFFF, particularly perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), can be filtered by the kidneys, potentially causing damage and increasing the risk of cancer.

PFOA has been identified as a likely renal carcinogen.

Liver Cancer

AFFF exposure has been connected to an elevated risk of liver cancer.

The liver is responsible for detoxifying chemicals in the body, and prolonged exposure to AFFF can cause liver damage and inflammation, potentially leading to the development of cancerous cells.

Studies indicate that PFAS exposure increases the risk of certain types of liver cancer.

Testicular Cancer

There is a noted increase in testicular cancer among individuals exposed to AFFF.

The chemicals in AFFF may disrupt hormone levels, affecting the reproductive system and leading to a higher risk of testicular cancer.

Research has shown a correlation between elevated PFOA levels and the incidence of this cancer.

Prostate Cancer

AFFF exposure has been linked to an increased risk of prostate cancer.

The toxic chemicals in firefighting foam can interfere with hormone regulation, potentially resulting in cancerous growths in the prostate gland.

Populations exposed to PFAS-containing foam have shown a higher incidence of prostate cancer.

Pancreatic Cancer

Emerging evidence suggests a possible connection between AFFF exposure and pancreatic cancer.

The harmful chemicals in AFFF may negatively affect the pancreas, leading to the development of cancerous tumors.

Studies indicate a higher occurrence of pancreatic cancer in individuals with known PFAS exposure.

Additional Health Issues Tied to Toxic Firefighting Foam Exposure

In addition to an increased risk of cancer, research has shown that AFFF exposure may also contribute to several non-cancerous health conditions.

Some common health problems linked to AFFF exposure include:

• Reproductive issues
• Thyroid disease
• Developmental delays
• Reduced immune system response

These findings highlight the serious health risks associated with toxic firefighting foam exposure, underscoring the importance of exploring legal options for those affected.

Occupational exposure is one of the most common ways people come into contact with toxic firefighting foam.

Certain professions are at a higher risk of AFFF and PFAS exposure due to their frequent contact with these chemicals, often far exceeding that of the general population.

Firefighters

Firefighters are among the most at risk for exposure to toxic firefighting foam.

In their daily work, firefighters may come into contact with large amounts of AFFF, and even after use, the foam’s residue can remain on their gear, clothing, and equipment.

Over time, repeated exposure increases their chances of developing health problems linked to PFAS.

Military Firefighters

Military firefighters—serving in branches like the Navy, Air Force, and Army—regularly use AFFF to put out fires.

This repeated use during training exercises and actual emergencies puts them at a higher risk of exposure.

As AFFF has been commonly used in the military for decades, these individuals may face health risks related to the foam’s chemical components.

Airport Firefighters

Airport firefighters also face heightened exposure due to the frequent use of AFFF in response to aircraft fires.

The foam was used to combat highly flammable materials found in aviation, but it poses a risk to the health of those using it.

Additionally, others working near AFFF, like air traffic controllers and aircraft technicians, may also be exposed to dangerous levels of PFAS over time.

Chemical Plant Workers

Employees in chemical plants or facilities where flammable liquids are produced or stored often come into contact with AFFF.

Workers in these environments face a heightened risk of exposure to AFFF and its related health concerns, as the foam is used in these facilities for fire prevention and suppression.

Workers Responsible for Transportation and Disposal of AFFF

Those tasked with transporting or disposing of AFFF are also at risk.

Without strict adherence to proper handling procedures, they may encounter harmful levels of PFAS.

This risk extends to individuals working for firefighting foam manufacturers, suppliers, and contractors who come into regular contact with the foam during their duties.

AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits are focused on holding manufacturers and suppliers accountable for the production and distribution of AFFF products.

These companies may be responsible for negligence, failing to provide proper warnings, and misrepresenting the safety of their products.

Several major manufacturers, including 3M, DuPont, and Tyco Fire Products, have already been named in lawsuits for their role in producing hazardous firefighting foam.

If you have been exposed to AFFF and later developed cancer or other related health issues, you may qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit.

It’s important to understand your rights and the legal avenues available to you — TruLaw is here to help ensure your interests are protected.

Collecting Evidence for AFFF Lawsuits

Evidence plays a large role in building a strong case for AFFF exposure and related health problems.

While your legal team will assist in collecting the necessary documentation, clients can also contribute by organizing key records.

Important evidence for your AFFF lawsuit may include:

• Medical records
• Employment records
• Military service records
• Witness statements
• Expert medical opinions
• Documentation of exposure to firefighting foam and resulting health conditions

An AFFF lawsuit can be overwhelming, but TruLaw can help guide you through each step of the process, ensuring you have the necessary support throughout your claim.

Assessing Damages for AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits

Damages refer to the total losses, both financial and non-financial, that arise from exposure to firefighting foam and the subsequent health complications.

These damages will be calculated as part of determining the potential settlement amount for your AFFF lawsuit.

Potential damages in AFFF lawsuits may include:

• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Future medical costs
• Permanent disability
• Wrongful death
• Loss of consortium
• Medical expenses
• Loss of quality of life
• Other compensatory and punitive damages

Calculating these damages is a key factor in determining any settlement that may result from your claim.

Your legal team will work diligently to ensure you seek fair compensation for the losses you’ve experienced.

The AFFF lawyers at TruLaw and our partner law firms are currently accepting firefighting foam cancer claims and assessing potential eligibility for AFFF litigation.

We understand the impact that exposure to harmful products, such as firefighting foam, can have on the lives of workers, military and airport firefighters, civilian firefighters, and others who may have come into contact with AFFF.

If you have been exposed to AFFF and developed cancer or other related illnesses, you may be eligible to file an AFFF cancer lawsuit.

You can use the chatbot on this page to instantly determine if you qualify for an AFFF lawsuit.

We collaborate with AFFF litigation leaders to connect you with toxic exposure lawyers with experienced suited to your claim.