By Michael Bartlett on August 21st, 2024 in PFAS/AFFF
Per and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) used in firefighting foams are toxic, endocrine-disrupting chemicals that have contaminated firefighting environments for decades. Exposure to this harmful substance can affect the thyroid gland's functions, including the production, secretion, and metabolism of hormones, leading to thyroid disorders.
Researchers have reported that individuals with PFAS exposure are at a 56% increased risk of developing thyroid cancer.
Firefighters have extensively used PFAS-containing aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) since the 1970s. Though PFAS were in use long ago, these persist in the environment as forever chemicals, which means they do not degrade quickly. Studies show that firefighters exposed to AFFF and other firefighting sources have higher levels of PFAS chemicals in their blood serum than the general population, due to repeated occupational contact with PFAS in foams, turnout gear, air, and station dust. This is alarming because firefighters are at risk of developing diseases and adverse health effects due to prolonged AFFF exposure.
Occupational exposure to PFAS is well documented in firefighters. Scientific research links PFAS exposure with changes in thyroid hormone activity. Multiple epidemiological and toxicological studies have found that exposure to PFAS compounds, including PFOS, PFOA, PFHxS, and others, is associated with alterations in thyroid hormone levels and endocrine disruption in humans, suggesting a potential impact on thyroid function.
A recent study reports that PFAS exposure is linked to an increased risk of thyroid cancer. The researchers found that perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (n-PFOS), a particular type of PFAS, elevated the thyroid cancer risk by 56%. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that PFAS exposure disrupts thyroid function.
If you are a firefighter and have been diagnosed with thyroid diseases such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and Hashimoto's disease, you are likely to be entitled to financial compensation.
PFAS exposure has been linked to several adverse health effects, including endocrine dysfunctions, including the disruption of the thyroid gland functions, leading to the following symptoms:
If you worked as a firefighter and developed any of these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention as early as possible.
If you are a firefighter who used AFFF during your career, you are likely to have been exposed to toxic PFAS while performing your regular firefighting duties.
We offer free case evaluations for firefighters who have developed thyroid disorders as a result of AFFF exposure during their firefighting careers.