By Treven Pyles
Posted on October 16th, 2025
As a result of their extensive exposure to AFFF containing PFAS chemicals, Air Force Fire Protection Specialists are significantly more likely to develop prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers. Those who served in this role and developed one of these cancers, there's a direct correlation between their military duties and their diagnosis.
During aircraft emergencies and training exercises, Fire Protection Specialists are frequently exposed to PFAS through firefighting foam, concentrated sprays, aerosols, contaminated gear, and runoff. ELG Law specializes in helping veterans pursue compensation for these service-related illnesses.
Prostate Cancer and AFFF Exposure
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer among firefighters, including Air Force Fire Protection Specialists. PFAS chemicals in AFFF have been connected to disruptions in hormone function and DNA damage, which may contribute to prostate cancer development. Firefighters' exposure to PFAS through firefighting activities and contaminated gear increases this risk significantly.
The incidence of prostate cancer among firefighters is higher than that of the general population, and biomonitoring studies show higher levels of PFAS in the serum of those involved in aircraft rescue and foam handling than in other groups. It is clear from these studies that first responders who handle AFFF are at risk for cancer and are exposed to measurable levels of PFAS.
Kidney Cancer Linked to PFAS
There is an association between PFAS exposure from prolonged AFFF use and renal cell carcinoma. Firefighters inhale PFAS-containing mist and touch contaminated protective equipment, which significantly increases their risk. Cancers caused by AFFF can take years or decades to develop after exposure, meaning the latency period may last 15 years.
Prospective analyses using pre-diagnostic serum from large cohorts reported positive associations between PFOA and renal cell carcinoma in men. A recent study suggests that PFAS, especially PFOA, may increase kidney cancer risk, providing strong scientific support for compensation claims.
Testicular Cancer in Air Force Servicemen
Testicular cancer is the most common cancer among young adult males in active military service. Air Force Fire Protection Specialists fall into this high-risk group due to their AFFF use. A nested case-control study of U.S. Air Force servicemen found that higher serum PFOS concentrations were associated with an increased risk of testicular germ cell tumors. In an Air Force study, prediagnostic levels of PFAS are associated with testicular cancer, implicating firefighting duties in this disease.
Scientific Foundation for Claims
The accumulation of PFAS in kidneys and testes, disruption of hormone signaling, interference with testicular biology, and disruption of cancer-causing cellular processes have all been demonstrated in animal and laboratory studies. These mechanistic data support a cancer-AFFF connection, strengthening the scientific foundation for compensation claims.
Fire Protection Specialists are particularly suitable for exposure-disease claims since occupational records document AFFF use and duties within the military bases. Service records showing assignment at bases where AFFF was stored or used, training logs documenting foam application, and medical records showing cancer diagnoses create a clear timeline connecting service to illness.
ELG Law Represents Air Force Fire Protection Specialists
In recent years, research has provided increasing evidence that AFFF exposure is linked to prostate, kidney, and testicular cancers. Air Force-specific studies have provided the strongest evidence. At ELG Law, we stay current with emerging research and know how to present scientific evidence effectively in compensation claims.
Our firm represents Air Force Fire Protection Specialists in VA disability claims as well as AFFF claims, seeking maximum compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. ELG Law can provide you with a free case evaluation if you have developed prostate, kidney, or testicular cancer after serving in the Air Force Fire Protection Specialist program.
