Women seamen and PFAS: Unique risks of breast cancer from AFFF exposure

It has been found that PFAS accumulate in the body and disrupt hormone and endocrine functions, which is relevant for cancers associated with hormones, such as breast cancer. It has been shown in animal studies that PFAS may affect the development of the mammary gland and may increase the proliferation of breast cells. Despite the lack of causal evidence in humans, the biological basis for concern remains.

Scientists have found PFAS in blood, breast milk, and placental tissue, demonstrating these chemicals penetrate and remain in organs directly connected to breast cancer development. These synthetic compounds interfere with hormones that control breast tissue growth and maintenance. Maritime workers exposed to AFFF regularly face an elevated cancer risk long after they leave the ship.

Epidemiologic evidence on PFAS and breast cancer risk

Breast cancer has been linked to PFAS exposure in several epidemiological studies. Research tracking women over extended periods found that high exposure to certain PFAS compounds produced significantly higher breast cancer rates, with mixed PFAS exposure showing an odds ratio of approximately 2.21, meaning more than double the cancer risk. The relationship between PFAS and breast cancer varied depending on menopausal status, with premenopausal women showing particularly strong associations for certain compounds.

A study found that higher PFOA concentrations correlated with increased breast cancer risk across various tumor types, including both estrogen receptor positive and HER2-positive cancers. When researchers used the more rigorous approach of measuring PFAS levels before cancer diagnosis rather than after, a 2023 systematic review identified a clear trend toward increased risk from specific PFAS such as PFOA.

Why occupational exposure increases health risks

Maritime workers whose duties involve repeated contact with PFAS-containing AFFF accumulate higher PFAS blood levels compared to environmental exposure alone. Seamen who spent a long time aboard vessels using these firefighting foams carry significant health risks that persist for years after exposure ends. Research documents increased cancer risks associated with occupational PFAS exposure, including breast, testicular, and kidney cancers. Medical monitoring and personalized risk assessment may be particularly relevant for all maritime workers with documented AFFF contact during their service.

Legal options for maritime workers under the Jones Act

If the employer's negligence contributed to the development of breast cancer in seawomen exposed to AFFF, they may be eligible for compensation under the Jones Act. When an employer fails to provide protective equipment to its workers or to make safer alternatives available to them, it may be held liable.

In accordance with the Jones Act, female seamen who undergo reconstructive surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation treatment are entitled to compensation for medical expenses. Furthermore, they can recover damages for lost income during treatment and recovery, impaired future earning capacity if their illness prevents them from returning to work on the water, or pain and suffering resulting from cancer diagnosis and treatment.

ELG Law can help female maritime workers pursue justice

The Environmental Litigation Group has represented families in toxic exposure cases for over 35 years. In the case of seawomen who have developed breast cancer due to exposure to AFFF during their work aboard vessels, we can help. In order to file a Jones Act claim, you must provide employment records, documentation of exposure to AFFF, and medical records with diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer. Contact us today to find out how we can help you hold negligent employers liable for PFAS exposure.