Individuals exposed to PFAS from AFFF: Studies reveal an increased risk for thyroid cancer

Firefighters used AFFF for its effective firefighting capabilities for years. AFFF contains high amounts of PFAS, short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. They are a group of more than 15,000 artificial chemicals known for their oil, stain, and water-resistant properties.

When PFAS accumulates in the blood or in the organs, it can disrupt thyroid function or interfere with the body's hormonal balance. PFAS exposure was found to have negative impacts on thyroid health, in general. Some studies explored how PFAS can interfere with the body's iodine uptake, which may lead to thyroid disease. A study found a 56% increase in the rate of thyroid cancer diagnosis for every doubling of PFOS in the plasma of patients, showing a positive association between thyroid cancer incidence and PFOS exposure. This association was also applicable to papillary thyroid cancer cases. Alarmingly, PFOS is abundant in legacy AFFF stocks, which means that civilian and military firefighters who used AFFF may be at high risk of developing this condition.

For high-risk groups: Watch out for the thyroid cancer signs and symptoms

About 97% of residents of the United States have PFAS in their serum, which confirms people are extensively exposed to the toxic chemical. The American Cancer Society estimates 44,020 new thyroid cancer cases in the US during the year 2024. Thyroid cancer develops slowly without any apparent symptoms initially. One of the high-risk groups that was most vulnerable to these chemicals was civilian and military firefighters, who used AFFF to fight liquid fires in training and responding to emergencies. If you believe that you have been exposed to PFAS after using AFFF in firefighting, you need to watch out for the following symptoms and seek subsequent medical attention:

• A painless neck swelling in the front portion
• Hoarseness in voice
• Difficulty swallowing or breathing
• Soreness in the throat
• Lymph node swelling in the neck

Eligibility for filing an AFFF thyroid cancer claim

Thyroid cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 44,000 new cases of thyroid cancer are recorded each year.

Individuals diagnosed with thyroid cancer can file for AFFF claims if they have a history of routine exposure to the PFAS-based AFFF. These include the following:

• Active and retired civilian firefighters, including career and volunteer
• Active and retired military firefighters involved in actual firefighting tasks
• Firefighters stationed in commercial airports and military hangars that used AFFF
• Firefighters with specialized training for aircraft rescue and firefighting (ARFF)
• Other personnel assigned to handle and use AFFF beyond emergencies, such as training and exercises

We can help you file your claim for AFFF-related thyroid cancer

With over 30 years of experience, ELG is always ready to provide quality legal assistance. Our attorneys are prepared to help civilian or military firefighters who have been exposed to AFFF and developed thyroid cancer. If you believe you qualify, contact us for a free case evaluation.

Our legal team requires records about your military service (for active and retired military firefighters) or employment records (for civilian firefighters). We also need your complete medical records, showing proof of thyroid cancer diagnosis. We will check whether you are eligible to file a claim, and if you are, our attorneys can file your AFFF claim on your behalf.