Recognizing the signs: Early symptoms of bladder cancer in high-risk populations

Bladder cancer can start with subtle symptoms. It is widely known that blood in the urine is an early symptom of bladder cancer, but people can still miss it, especially if it shows as a light shade of pink. Another early symptom that people overlook is fatigue, chronic tiredness that does not go away after a full rest. Other symptoms that may come later are:

• flank pain caused by ureteral obstruction
• frequent urination or pain while urinating
• appetite loss
• lower back pain or pelvic pain
• swelling in the feet
• bone pain

If you know you are at high risk or you have been exposed to toxic chemicals like PFAS, recognizing early symptoms can get you early treatment.

Risk factors for bladder cancer

Smoking is a major risk factor for this condition, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, with more than half of bladder cancer cases being traced back to carcinogens in tobacco. But family history and chemical exposure, especially in workplaces and residential communities, can also have a strong impact on cancer risks.

An example of widespread exposure to dangerous chemicals is the use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) as a fire extinguisher in the U.S. military. This led to the contamination of over 700 military bases and nearby residential communities with per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).

Research studies have already linked PFAS exposure to increased cancer risk, including bladder cancer. A recently published article in The Journal of Urology found that a higher incidence of bladder cancer in U.S. counties was associated with five types of PFAS in the water systems. These compounds include PFOS, PFOA, and PFHxS, which are all found in AFFF. These "forever chemicals" can easily be absorbed into the human body, where they can disrupt biological systems. The VA website also claims that the Department of Defense and the VA are "tracking" research studies on the link between bladder cancer and PFAS exposure.

PFAS increases bladder cancer risk for high-risk groups

Because of widespread PFAS contamination in military bases, some groups are at higher risk of developing cancer. The Environmental Litigation Group assists the following groups in filing PFAS exposure claims for bladder cancer diagnosis:

• Military personnel and veterans who worked at a PFAS-contaminated military base.
• Family members of military personnel and veterans who lived at or near PFAS-contaminated military bases.
• Civilians who lived within one mile of a contaminated military base.

If you have more questions about eligibility and the documents you need for your case, don't hesitate to contact ELG for a consultation.

You can file a PFAS bladder cancer claim with ELG Law

Bladder cancer has a high five-year survival rate, so having access to medical treatment and financial support for costs is crucial. The compensation you can get from claims can aid your treatment and recovery. On the other hand, we also know that filing claims is a tedious process while you are battling cancer, so ELG Law provides assistance to PFAS exposure victims in filing claims.

Our attorneys will evaluate your case through your medical documents, along with either your military records or proof of residence. You can contact us today to schedule the first step in the process.