By Treven Pyles on June 19th, 2025 in PFAS/AFFF
In recent years, studies have revealed disturbing links between PFAS exposure and thyroid disease. The thyroid gland controls metabolism, growth, and development throughout life, making disruption of this critical system a serious health concern for exposed populations.
Recent research demonstrates that thyroid disorders affect millions of Americans, with many cases remaining undiagnosed. When PFAS chemicals interfere with thyroid hormone production and regulation, the health consequences can be far-reaching and long-lasting.
The C8 Science Panel determined in 2012 that available epidemiologic data presented sufficient evidence to conclude there is a link between PFOA exposure and thyroid disease, establishing one of the first formal connections between PFAS and diagnosed thyroid conditions. Research has documented potential links between PFOA and PFOS exposure and thyroid disease development in exposed populations.
Studies examining PFAS-exposed populations have identified thyroid disease as a condition of particular concern, with some research showing measurable associations between exposure levels and disease diagnosis. Military personnel and firefighters, who are frequently exposed to PFAS-containing firefighting foam (AFFF), showed a higher prevalence of thyroid disease, according to a 2023 study in Occupational Medicine, suggesting prolonged exposure may have cumulative effects on thyroid health.
The pattern of increased thyroid disease diagnosis in PFAS-exposed populations provides evidence beyond laboratory hormone measurements, pointing to actual clinical thyroid conditions requiring medical treatment and ongoing monitoring.
Military surveillance data documented over 40,000 thyroid disorder diagnoses among active-duty service members during a decade-long study period. Hypothyroidism emerged as the most frequently diagnosed thyroid condition, with notably higher rates among non-Hispanic white service members compared to other demographic groups.
Military populations represent a critical study group for PFAS research due to documented contamination at numerous military installations through aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) use, contaminated water supplies, and occupational exposure to PFAS-containing equipment. Despite earlier projections, rates of five major thyroid conditions either stabilized or declined from 2008 to 2017, though the absolute number of cases remains substantial.
The comprehensive nature of military health records allows researchers to track disease patterns and identify trends that might not be apparent in civilian populations. These findings carry broader implications for civilian communities exposed to PFAS through contaminated water supplies or residence near contaminated military sites.
ELG Law has extensive experience with environmental toxic exposure cases and works tirelessly to ensure victims of PFAS exposure on military bases receive proper compensation. Our legal team reviews medical and service records to determine if military installations you were assigned to have been impacted by toxic contamination and whether any thyroid conditions are related to PFAS exposure.
Our law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we recover compensation for you. We understand that the VA often gives disability ratings that fall short or denies claims completely, and our experienced legal team can help maximize your chances of success with PFAS-related thyroid disease claims.