Navy Service, AFFF Firefighter Foam Exposure, and Cancer Link

Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is a firefighting foam used to combat flammable liquid fires, such as jet fuel fires and petroleum fires. It comprises man-made chemicals known as per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Unfortunately, studies have linked AFFF to an increased risk of cancer in individuals regularly exposed to it. 

The U.S. Navy has used AFFF for decades to fight fires on ships and military bases. As a result, you may have been exposed to PFAS and developed a risk of certain cancers and adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disorders, liver damage, and kidney, testicular, prostate, and pancreatic cancer.

What Cancers Have Been Linked to AFFF Exposure?

Scientific studies conducted by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have linked specific types of cancers to AFFF firefighting foam, such as:

• Bladder Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Thyroid Cancer 
• Lung Cancer
• Bladder Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Multiple Myeloma
• Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
• Reproductive Cancer
• Cervical Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Endometrial Cancer 

How Can PFAS Cause Cancer?

For decades, various industrial and consumer products have utilized dangerous chemicals known as PFAS (per and polyfluoroalkyl substances). The common PFAS chemicals include:

• Perfluoro-octane sulfonate (PFOS)
• Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)

Moreover, PFAS are highly persistent in the environment, meaning they do not break down easily and can accumulate in living organisms. There are several health risks that contribute to PFAS carcinogenic potential:

Cellular Damage

PFAS can cause DNA damage and disrupt cellular processes. They can alter gene expression, which may lead to uncontrolled cell growth and the formation of cancerous tumors.

Inflammation

Exposure to PFAS can trigger chronic inflammation, which scientists have linked to cancer development. Inflammation creates an environment that promotes the growth of cancer cells and inhibits the body’s ability to suppress tumor formation.

Hormone Disruption

PFAS chemicals can lead to hormone disruption, which can interfere with the body’s hormonal balance and contribute to cancer development.

Immune System Suppression

Prolonged exposure to PFAS can weaken the immune system’s ability to identify and destroy cancerous cells. This impaired immune response can allow cancer or tumor cells to spread.

Bioaccumulation

PFAS accumulates in specific organs, particularly in the liver and kidneys. This bioaccumulation can lead to higher concentrations of PFAS in the body over time, increasing the potential for long-term health effects, including cancer.

What Factors Can Influence the Risk of Cancer From AFFF Exposure to Navy Veterans?

Several factors can influence cancer risk from AFFF firefighting foam exposure, such as:

• Duration and Intensity of Exposure: If you have experienced prolonged and frequent exposure to AFFF during firefighting and training, then you can face a higher risk of cancer.
• Type of AFFF Used: The specific formulation of AFFF used can vary, and some formulations may contain higher levels of harmful chemicals like per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which could increase the cancer risk.
• Work Environment: The proximity to AFFF storage areas, practice exercises, and ventilation in Navy vessels and facilities can impact exposure levels and influence the risk of cancer.
• Individual Health Status: Pre-existing health conditions, metabolism disorders, and weak immune response may influence how AFFF exposure increases cancer risk.
• Genetic Factors: Genetic variations can influence your susceptibility to the carcinogenic effects of PFAS found in AFFF.
• Lifestyle Choices: Certain lifestyle habits, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, may interact with AFFF exposure and contribute to increased cancer risk.

How Do Navy Personnel Come Into Contact With AFFF?

During your service, you may encounter AFFF firefighting foam through various means, such as:

Firefighting Training and Drills

During firefighting training to handle fires, Navy personnel are exposed to AFFF foam to suppress fires caused by flammable liquids.

Firefighting on Navy Ships

When a fire breaks out on board, AFFF is used to extinguish the flames and prevent the fire from spreading. Participation in such firefighting operations can also lead to your AFFF exposure.

Aircraft Fire Emergencies

In emergencies involving aircraft, such as fires on the flight deck or in hangars, AFFF is used to suppress the flames quickly. Dealing with aircraft emergencies may expose you to the firefighting foam.

Crash and Salvage Operations

During salvage operations, aircraft accidents, or crashes at sea, AFFF is used to control fires and handle the aftermath of the accidents. In these situations, you may be exposed to the harmful chemicals in the AFFF firefighting foam.

Maintenance and Testing

Regular maintenance and testing ensure that firefighting systems on Navy ships are working properly. During these procedures, AFFF is used to check if the firefighting equipment functions correctly. As a Navy firefighter, you may come in contact with AFFF while conducting these maintenance and testing activities.

Accidental Spills

Accidents can occur during the storage, handling, or transportation of AFFF on Navy ships or bases. An accidental spill of a container holding AFFF can spread fire, potentially exposing you to firefighting foam. Exposure can also occur through direct skin contact or inhalation of AFFF particles in the air.

What Precautions Can Navy Personnel Take To Minimize Their AFFF Exposure?

To protect yourself from the risks of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) exposure, you can take several precautions:

• Use Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear appropriate protective gear, such as gloves, masks, and suits, to minimize direct skin contact and inhalation of AFFF during firefighting and emergency response operations.
• Follow Safety Guidelines: Follow safety protocols and guidelines for handling, using, and disposing of AFFF to reduce the risk of exposure.
• Training and Awareness: Take comprehensive training about the potential hazards of AFFF and how to use it safely. Increase your awareness of the risks and proper protective measures.
• Limit Exposure: Whenever possible, limit the duration and extent of exposure to AFFF and its fumes by using it judiciously and in well-ventilated areas.
• Proper Storage and Handling: Ensure AFFF is stored correctly, and follow manufacturer recommendations for handling the foam safely.
• Regular Health Checkups: Seek regular physical checkups to monitor any health effects of AFFF exposure and detect early signs of health issues.
• Use Safer Alternatives: Explore and adopt environmentally friendly and less toxic firefighting foams alternatives whenever feasible.

Want to File Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits? Get Help From Uptown Injury!

If you or a loved one has been affected by cancer from AFFF exposure, don’t suffer in silence. At Uptown Injury, our experienced firefighting foam attorneys are here to help. We understand the complexities of the AFFF cancer lawsuit and the significant impact these cases have on victims and communities. We are committed to fighting for your rights and seeking justice.

Our lawyers will help you gather evidence, build a strong argument, negotiate with the defendant’s insurance team, and get you the compensation you deserve. Furthermore, we work on a contingency fee, so would not have to worry about any out-of-pocket costs. 

Contact us or call us at 917-540-8728 to schedule a FREE consultation today! Let us help you navigate the legal system without any worries.

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