The Legal Battle Against AFFF: Exploring Health Risks and Lawsuits

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is the go-to fire suppressant for military firefighters and civilians. Due to its unique composition, it stands out in firefighting. It quickly smothers fuel-based fires, making it a potent tool. It cuts off the fire’s oxygen source by forming a thin, compact layer over burning liquids.

However, there were a few concerns regarding its toxic chemical composition. As per TorHoerman Law, AFFF firefighting foam contains forever chemicals (or PFAS). It is the main reason why so many people have gotten cancer and other serious health problems after being exposed to this foam. A recent study shows that cancer rates among firefighters and other workers exposed to AFFF have increased. 

This article will cover some of the health risks posed by AFFF. We will also look at potential challenges and solutions in the form of a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit.

Health Risks and Lawsuits

Perfluoroalkyl and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been identified as the primary reasons for health issues among all chemicals used in AFFF. These are a group of synthetic chemicals resistant to water, heat, and oil. They aren’t easy to break down. 

Some of the health issues linked to this chemical include:

• Cancer
• Increased congenital disability risk
• Thyroid disease
• Decreased fertility
• Immune system problems
• Liver damage
• High cholesterol

As far as lawsuits are concerned, hundreds of legal lawsuits are filed against AFFF manufacturers. These actions include:

• Personal injury lawsuits were filed by firefighters who got cancer or other health issues after being exposed to AFFF.
• Class action lawsuits were filed by people whose drinking water was contaminated by using AFFF.

The firefighter foam cancer lawsuit is one of them. This lawsuit targets AFFF manufacturers. Plaintiffs claim they didn’t warn users about the risks associated with PFAS. Quite a few cases are still going on, including one in Florida in June 2023.

If you are one of these people who were exposed to AFFF and were diagnosed with cancer, you could possibly file a firefighting foam cancer lawsuit.

Challenges in Legal Battles

When we talk about AFFF lawsuit challenges, there is none bigger than proving that the victims’ health problems are caused by AFFF exposure. Let’s dissect these challenges in-depth and understand them one by one:

1. Proof of Exposure

Firstly, the victim must prove they were exposed to AFFF. This is challenging because AFFF is generally used outdoors, and tracking and testing the exposure source can be tricky.

2. Creating a Link Between Exposure and Health Problems

Let us assume that the victim proved that they were exposed to AFFF. The next challenge is to prove there’s a link between exposure and health problems. It isn’t going to be an easy task because PFAS exposure can have serious health effects that take years to show up.

3. Overcoming the Causation Defense

AFFF manufacturers often argue that plaintiffs’ health problems were caused by something other than AFFF exposure. It could be environmental exposures, genetics, or lifestyle factors.

A Guide to Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits

If you are someone who has battled hard through health issues because of AFFF exposure, then you have to remember one thing. It isn’t just you. There are more people out there who have been affected by AFFF. And you have dedicated lawyers who specialize in this and can help you.

Below are some of the things you need to know if you are considering filing a Firefighting Foam Cancer (AFFF) lawsuit:

1. Gather Evidence of Your Exposure

First, you must collect, file and track your health records. It could be doctor’s visits, test results, hospital stays, etc. Also, gather records showing your exposure to AFFF, such as work orders, training manuals, and safety data sheets. If you got your environment tested for PFAS, keep those records too.

2. Talk to an Attorney

A lawyer is someone who can help you in assessing your case and figuring out whether it’s worth fighting for. They can also help you gather evidence, file your lawsuit, and represent you in court.

3. Be Prepared To Fight

You can find it difficult to prove your exposure to AFFF and the link between your exposure and your health issues. Be patient and determined. Don’t give up!

The Bottom Line

All in all, health issues are something one cannot control all the time. However, exposure to AFFF can be controlled. The choice is yours!

Also, try and understand the challenges of the AFFF lawsuit. It’ll be easy for you to know your strengths and fight against the AFFF manufacturers. And lastly, the most critical thing is to get in touch with the right lawyers to help you. The one who understands your case in and out!