Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) is a type of fire suppressant used to extinguish flammable liquid fires. It finds application in various locations, such as military installations, ships, shore facilities, firefighting training facilities, vehicles, and more. Certain AFFF solutions contain toxic substances that significantly increase the risk of major health issues, including cancer. This blog discusses the significant adverse effects of exposure to AFFF, the link between AFFF and cancer, and the health risks associated with exposure to this toxic firefighting foam.

What is AFFF?

AFFF, also known as aqueous film-forming foam, has been widely used as a fire suppressant since the 1960s. Its main objective is to put out hydrocarbon fuel flames by generating a protective coating that prevents them from re-igniting. However, until recently, the potential environmental and health hazards associated with aqueous film-forming foam were often overlooked. AFFF contains harmful substances that could pose long-term risks to waterways, human bodies, animals, and the environment.

AFFF Exposure

The greatest risk of AFFF adverse effects is for military personnel and firefighters, although it can also happen by consuming foods grown in contaminated regions or drinking water polluted with chemicals. When these compounds are used to put out fires, produced, or stored, they pollute the air, land, and water in the surrounding area.

Since AFFF is used to put out oil fires, millions of pounds of the material are employed, with a large portion of it becoming aerosolized in the process. All that's needed for these toxins to spread over the surrounding environment is wind or flooding areas.

Unfortunately, it wasn't until the twenty-first century that the public learned it wasn't safe for military personnel and firefighters to use. In 2018, a firefighter who had worked in both the civilian and military sector testified before Congress on how AFFFs had replaced soap in the washing of fire trucks and the cleaning of fire stations.

Toxic Substances in AFFF Connected to Health Problems

Toxic substances could be present in AFFF. Polyfluoroalkyl and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS compounds) are well-known for being able to stand up to oil, water, and heat making them useful in extinguishing and suppressing flammable fires.

Nonetheless, the nature of these chemicals and the potential negative health effects have drawn attention to them. The Environmental Protection Agency has expressed concerns about the possible human health consequences of PFAS chemical exposure because they can pollute air, water, food sources, and soil. Traces of toxic substances have also been detected in the bloodstreams of animals and humans.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), multiple studies have connected PFAS exposure to a variety of health problems, including thyroid disease, reproductive disorders, liver damage, and immune system problems. These toxic substances can come into touch with the skin, be ingested, or be inhaled.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has expressed worries about any possible risks of PFAS exposure. There is a higher level of PFAS contamination in animals when compared to humans. This causes harm to their immune system and liver, as well as congenital defects, reduced birth weight, delayed growth, and neonatal mortality in laboratory animals.

The following cancers could be connected to PFAS-containing AFFF exposure:

  • Prostate cancer.
  • Breast cancer.
  • Leukemia.
  • Intestinal cancer.
  • Kidney cancer.
  • Mesothelioma.
  • Liver cancer.
  • Pancreatic cancer.
  • Testicular cancer.
  • Bladder cancer.

High concentrations of specific PFAS compounds can result in the following results:

  • High cholesterol levels.
  • Liver enzymes that have been altered.
  • Pre-eclampsia in expectant women.
  • Reduced vaccination responses in children.
  • Minor declines in an infant's birth weight.

More research is required to fully comprehend the range of health risks associated with exposure to AFFF. To gain a better understanding of the possible dangers associated with PFAS pollution, numerous environmental, governmental, and health groups are still undertaking research. Additional regulations and measures on the exposure of AFFF are being put in place, one of which is the National Firefighter Registry (NFR).

As a result of the Firefighter Cancer Registry Act, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) established the NFR in 2018. It looks into the relationship between the development of cancer and the firefighters who got subjected to AFFF.

Side Effects of AFFF Exposure

There may be instant negative effects from AFFF exposure that impact various body areas. These adverse effects of AFFF might appear soon after exposure or contact and range in intensity based on the person's sensitivity and length of exposure.

Eye and Skin Irritation

Rashes, itching, redness, and skin irritation can result from getting exposed to AFFF. In some situations, it could result in chemical burns. If AFFF gets into contact with your eyes, it can lead to redness, irritation, temporary vision impairment, and itching.

Breathing Problems and Respiratory Problems

Exposure to AFFF often causes respiratory issues. Inhaling AFFF material or its fumes can irritate the respiratory tract, resulting in tightness in the chest, coughing, and wheezing. Individuals who have pre-existing respiratory issues could have their symptoms aggravated.

Gastrointestinal Issues

Gastrointestinal issues, such as vomiting, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and diarrhea, can arise from consuming food or drink contaminated with AFFF. With persistent exposure, the symptoms can last for a short time or get chronic. Individuals who have consumed AFFF should seek medical assistance as soon as possible if these adverse effects develop, as AFFF can cause internal harm.

Neurological Symptoms

Individuals who have been subjected to AFFF can suffer from neurological symptoms like memory loss, dizziness, headaches, confusion, and problems concentrating. These symptoms have the potential to impair everyday activities and reduce quality of life. The intensity and duration of exposure could influence the persistence of more serious neurological problems.

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam and Cancer

Several research studies have linked exposure to AFFF to an increased risk of developing cancer. The hazardous compounds found in AFFF, especially PFAS, have been linked to the growth of cancerous tumors. It's critical to understand the possible cancers that could result from exposure to AFFF because improving outcomes depends on early discovery and treatment.

Kidney Cancer

AFFF exposure has been associated with a higher risk of developing kidney cancer. Over time, the accumulation of chemicals found in AFFF can result in the formation of cancerous tumors in the renal system. The risk of kidney cancer was more than twice as high in individuals with higher blood levels of perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), a type of PFAS, compared to those with the lowest levels.

Bladder Cancer

Prolonged AFFF exposure could potentially increase the risk of developing bladder cancer. AFFF chemicals can build up and alter cells, which could result in the development of cancer. Perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) is a form of PFAS chemical that has been linked to a spike in bladder cancer deaths among individuals who were exposed to it while on their job.

Liver Cancer

Exposure to AFFF has been linked to an increased risk of suffering from liver cancer. Toxins are removed from the body through the liver, and the buildup of PFAS compounds can harm the liver and promote the growth of cancerous cells. These toxic substances raise the risk of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and fatty liver through changing hepatic lipid, glucose metabolism, and amino acid.

Prostate Cancer

Men who are exposed to PFAS have a higher chance of getting prostate cancer. Many research groups are still investigating the specific reasons behind this connection, but it highlights the potential damage of AFFF chemicals. These substances have a major impact on the growth of tumors and the onset of prostate cancer in males who are subjected to PFAS and AFFF.

Testicular Cancer

Exposure to PFAS chemicals has been linked to an increased risk of developing testicular cancer. Ecological research, for instance, discovered that men who reside in PFAS-contaminated areas are more likely to acquire testicular cancer. Nevertheless, further research is required to prove a clear causal connection.

Colorectal Cancer

Exposure to AFFF may raise the risk of colorectal cancer in certain people. Consuming food or water tainted with PFAS can cause these harmful substances to build up in the colon, which may aid in the growth of malignant cells. There may be a connection between PFAS pollution and colorectal cancer as perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) can cause colorectal cancer cell invasion.

Pancreatic Cancer

Exposure to AFFF has been linked to an increased risk of pancreatic cancer. The accumulation of PFAS chemicals can impair the pancreas' natural function and raise the risk of cancer development. The pancreas is essential for hormone balance and digestion. Exposure to perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) may make pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) worse, which could speed up the growth of pancreatic cancer.

Thyroid Cancer

The presence of PFAS compounds in AFFF has been connected to a higher risk of thyroid cancer. These substances can disrupt the thyroid gland's ability to produce and function hormones, which may result in the formation of malignant growths. PFAS exposure damages the cells, weakens the immune system, and messes up their communication systems. All of these things can cause cancer and change how thyroid hormones work.

Non-Cancerous Health Effects of Toxic Firefighting Foam Exposure

Individuals exposed to AFFF may experience some non-cancerous health consequences in addition to an elevated risk of developing cancer. These health conditions can have a substantial impact on an individual's quality of life and well-being.

Skin and Eye Issues

People might develop skin and eye problems based on the intensity and duration of the exposure. Exposure to PFAS can result in skin issues such as itching, chemical burns, and rashes, as well as chronic eye irritation and conjunctivitis. Prolonged exposure might cause pain and persistent dermatological issues.

Hormonal Imbalances and Endocrine Disruptors

The chemicals found in AFFF have the potential to affect the body's hormonal balance and production through endocrine disruption. Hormonal imbalances, issues with fertility, and pregnancy complications could arise from this disruption. The chances of acquiring hormone imbalances and endocrine-related problems increase with the duration of exposure.

Kidney And Liver Damage

Long-term AFFF exposure can cause damage to the kidneys and liver. These essential organs remove pollutants from the human body, and PFAS chemical buildup can impede their performance and cause long-term health issues. If left untreated, these consequences can lead to lasting damage.

Developmental And Reproductive Issues

Exposure to AFFF can affect development and reproductive health. PFAS exposure has been linked to lower fertility, developmental difficulties in babies and children, as well as poor pregnancy outcomes. These problems could have a long-term influence on the development and health of women and children exposed to the chemicals.

Impaired Immune System

People are more vulnerable to illnesses and autoimmune diseases when exposed to PFAS compounds in AFFF, which can impair the functioning of the immune system. A weakened immune system could render a person more vulnerable to many diseases. It’s important to note that the length and severity of AFFF exposure determine the degree of immune system impairment.

Exposure to AFFF foam has been linked to a wide range of health issues. As such, individuals ought to regularly track their health and seek medical attention if they notice any odd symptoms. It is also crucial for anyone who may be subject to these risks to be aware of their rights and the options available to them for seeking justice and compensation.

Individuals Affected by AFFF Exposure

Several occupations that include a high volume of handling AFFF firefighting foam chemicals or proximity to such facilities put several people at a greater risk of being exposed to PFAS chemicals.

  • Military Personnel and Firefighters

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the U.S. military helped develop aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) in the 1960s. Since then, hazardous firefighting foam solutions have been used on military sites for both operational and training firefighting. Military personnel who are exposed to AFFF while serving, including military firefighters, could be more vulnerable to related health issues.

  • First Responders and Firefighters

When battling fires and responding to emergencies, first responders and civilian firefighters regularly come in contact with AFFF. The fact that they adhere to all of the safety procedures and always put on personal protective gear does not make them immune to the risks. Repeated and extended occupational AFFF exposure might result in serious health consequences.

  • Airport and Industry Workers

AFFF is commonly used to extinguish fuel-based flames in industrial settings and airports. Individuals working in these environments, such as industrial firefighters and rescue and fire crews on airplanes, may be regularly exposed to hazardous chemicals. Individuals who work in such settings ought to take the appropriate safety measures.

  • Communities Near High AFFF Usage Areas

Individuals living near high AFFF usage areas could be exposed indirectly through environmental contamination or polluted water sources. These include airports, fire training institutions, chemical industries, and industrial areas. In these regions, PFAS pollution occurs when AFFF chemicals enter water sources such as lakes, groundwater, and rivers or get released into the atmosphere.

Are You Eligible for the AFFF Lawsuit?

If you have been exposed to AFFF and have developed cancer or other ailments as a result, you should seek guidance from a seasoned lawyer. They can help protect your rights and seek justice on your behalf. These legal professionals are equipped to assist you in pursuing damages for AFFF exposure and holding the responsible parties accountable. Experienced lawyers possess extensive knowledge of AFFF cases and are capable of providing guidance, support, and defense throughout the court proceedings.

They can evaluate your AFFF lawsuit, gather necessary evidence, and help you negotiate complex legal processes. A product liability attorney understands the difficulties associated with receiving a cancer diagnosis and is well-versed in the scientific studies, rules, and court cases about AFFF lawsuits and their health effects. They will assist you in filing an AFFF action against the at-fault parties, in which case you could be able to receive compensation for lost income, medical costs, suffering and pain, and other losses incurred.

Who Is Responsible for Your AFFF Exposure-Related Injuries?

The companies that produce AFFFs containing carcinogenic ingredients, such as Chubb Fire, Dupont, and ChemGuard, can be held accountable for your lost wages, medical bills, related expenses, as well as other damages.

What is the Average Duration It Takes To Settle an AFFF Lawsuit?

A lawsuit regarding AFFF foam covers exposure that may have occurred over several months or even years. Therefore, it is advisable to promptly contact an attorney, especially if you believe that your significant illness is a result of exposure to AFFF.

Which Careers Have the Highest Risk of PFAS Exposure?

Individuals who work in fire departments, commercial airport staff, military personnel who train with PFAS, firefighters, and employees at AFFF-manufacturing facilities are at a high risk of frequent exposure to harmful substances.

Find an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawyer Near Me

There are legal remedies available to you if AFFF foam has harmed you or a loved one. Product liability rules grant you the right to seek compensation for losses resulting from the negligence or misconduct of another person. This may have an impact on AFFF foam producers who neglected to adequately inform customers about the risks involved with their product. Contact Consumer Alert Now at 800-511-0747 to see if you are eligible to file an AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit.