People exposed to high PFAS levels are twice as likely to develop non-Hodgkin's lymphoma
The lymphatic system is the network in your body that fights diseases. Because cancer can affect nearly any part of the body, the lymphatic system is, unfortunately, no exception.
When non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma occurs, the malignant tumors develop in the lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cells. This cancer is significantly more common than Hodgkin’s lymphoma, accounting for over 70% of cases.
Nevertheless, lymphoma, regardless of the type, is responsible for only 4% of cancer cases throughout the country. There are over 30 subtypes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. It is crucial to timely recognize the symptoms of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, as this will lead to you receiving the treatment you need as early as possible, which will increase your life expectancy and improve your prognosis. The following are the most common symptoms of this cancer:
- swollen lymph nodes in your neck, armpits, or groin
- abdominal pain or swelling
- chest pain, coughing, or trouble breathing
- fatigue
- fever
- night sweats
- unexplained weight loss
- feeling full after eating a small amount of food
- recurring infections
If you are a member of the military or a veteran and experience some of the above symptoms, please seek medical attention as soon as possible, as you may have developed non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. Similarly, if you were stationed with a member of the military at a military base contaminated with PFAS, we advise you to seek medical attention, as you are also at high risk of developing this health problem. However, because misdiagnosis is a frequent occurrence when it comes to cancer, it is recommended to see multiple specialists for a correct and accurate diagnosis. It is also important to mention that you were exposed to PFAS to your doctor when you go to your appointment, as there is a strong causal relation between this disease and exposure to fluorinated chemicals.
Veterans who spent at least one cumulative year at a contaminated military base and developed non-Hodgkin's lymphoma might be entitled to compensation. Their family members might also be eligible to file a claim if they were stationed with them and struggle with this cancer. Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma has a latency of 10 years when the cause is PFAS exposure.
What types of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma are there?
Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma is a form of cancer that includes dozens of subtypes, as it is a very complex disease. Therefore, we have gathered the most common non-Hodgkin's lymphoma diagnoses that you can receive as a victim of PFAS exposure that occurred in the military.
It is extremely important to be aware of these names, as some may seem unrelated to the disease at first glance.
- mantle cell lymphoma
- large cell anaplastic lymphoma
- duodenal follicular lymphoma
- chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- high risk acute lymphoblastic leukemia
- diffuse large B-cell lymphoma
- T-cell lymphoma
- chronic lymphocytic lymphoma
- Burkitt's lymphoma
- central nervous system lymphoma
- extranodal marginal zone B-cell lymphoma
- mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue
- MALT lymphoma
- NK-cell lymphoma
- splenic marginal zone B-cell lymphoma
If you received one of these diagnoses, please contact our attorneys, as they specialize in toxic exposure and may be able to assist you with recovering compensation for your disease if they determine you are eligible. Regrettably, veterans who were stationed at military bases or installations contaminated with PFAS are at high risk of developing non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. However, if you belong to this category, you should also give us a call, as we might be able to file a claim on your behalf.
