When nodules go ignored: The risk of missing thyroid cancer symptoms

Thyroid cancer can be treated, but when early symptoms go unnoticed, the disease can advance without being detected for months or years. If you recognize thyroid cancer symptoms early, you may have more treatment options available. An unusual lump or nodules in the neck are the most common symptoms. Other symptoms include the following:

• neck, jaw, or ear pain
• difficulty breathing
• difficulty swallowing
• "tickle in the throat" sensation
• hoarseness in voice

Without proper treatment, thyroid cancer can become aggressive and might spread to the lymph nodes, lungs, bones, brain, liver, and skin. If metastasis occurs, treatment becomes more complex and more costly.

AFFF exposure can increase thyroid cancer risk

Generally, the risks of developing thyroid cancer depend on family history, radiation exposure, and chemical exposure. Toxic chemical exposure may include chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are found in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). AFFF has been used for decades in extinguishing liquid fires, and long-term use of the foam has exposed high-risk groups to cancer-causing PFAS chemicals. Studies have found that PFAS can affect how the body uptakes iodine and can disrupt thyroid function.

Studies have found that PFAS can affect how the body uptakes iodine and can disrupt thyroid function. In November 2023, another study found that a higher rate of thyroid cancer diagnosis was linked to PFOS in plasma. PFOS is one of the two most widely studied types of "forever chemicals", and it is present in legacy AFFF stocks.

You may qualify for an AFFF toxic exposure claim for thyroid cancer

If you have been diagnosed with thyroid cancer after being exposed to AFFF, ELG Law can help you file a claim. We can assist you if you received your thyroid cancer diagnosis after either of the following:

• You were stationed at a military base as a military firefighter, with records showing a history of AFFF exposure in your duties
• You served as a civilian firefighter in the U.S. (career or volunteer), with records showing a history of AFFF exposure in your duties

We provide legal assistance to civilian and military firefighters with thyroid cancer

The Environment Litigation Group has over 35 years of experience in dealing with toxic exposure claims. Our attorneys provide legal assistance to civilian and military firefighters exposed to AFFF who later developed thyroid cancer. We will evaluate your case and determine your eligibility through military records (military firefighters), employment records (civilian firefighters), and medical records showing your diagnosis. Schedule a consultation with us today to get a free evaluation.