High blood concentrations of PFDoA increase the risk of breast cancer by 13 times
There are over 700 military bases across the country where environmental contamination occurred. Some of the dangerous chemicals lurking on these installations were solvents. Benzene, methylene chloride, styrene, and vinyl chloride have been shown to cause breast tumors in mice. According to a study from Environmental Science and Pollution Research, there is a significant connection between workplace exposure to organic solvents and breast cancer. This can be comparable with the situation of service members stationed on polluted military bases, as they would have regular contact with solvents.
Furthermore, exposure to certain toxic metals also increases breast cancer risk. Mercury is one of these metals, as it has estrogen-simulating properties and can promote the proliferation of breast cancer cells. The main mechanisms for metal carcinogenicity are:
- interference with cellular redox regulation
- induction of oxidative stress
- inhibition of major DNA repair
- deregulation of cell proliferation
The chemicals PFAS were also present on the vast majority of military bases nationwide. Once in the body, they act as endocrine disruptors. This means that PFAS interfere with the normal functioning of the hormonal system, being able to eventually lead to breast cancer both in women and men. PFDoA has a particularly strong association with breast cancer. If you are a veteran who struggles with breast cancer and want to file a toxic exposure claim, you will have to meet the following eligibility criteria:
- you must have been discharged from the military other than dishonorably
- you must have been exposed to toxic substances on the military base
- you must have a diagnosis of breast cancer linked to toxic exposure
To properly assess your case, our experienced attorneys will also need your military records, which you must retrieve, and your medical records. As a family member of a veteran who spent time with them at a contaminated military base, you can also file a toxic exposure claim. We will request evidence of your stay at the facility and your medical records. Once we deem you eligible, we will begin preparing your claim for submission. Veterans will also have their claims filed with the VA for disability compensation.