How AFFF affects thyroid function over the long term
A study found that PFAS chemicals, the key components of AFFF, can alter thyroid hormone levels in adults. People with more PFOS (a type of PFAS) in their bodies had higher levels of one hormone (free T4), but lower levels of two others (total T4 and total T3). Other PFAS types, like PFOA and PFHxS, were also linked to lower levels of total T4.
Any drastic changes to hormonal levels may be a sign of dysfunction or alteration of thyroid function, which may affect your risk of developing thyroid disease or thyroid cancer. These PFAS chemicals that affect thyroid function are key components of legacy AFFF, the firefighting foam used by civilian and military firefighters to fight Class B fires.
The disruption of hormones can have serious long-term health consequences. Thyroid hormone imbalance affects your body’s ability to regulate metabolism, which in turn regulates how you use energy. Over time, this can lead to unexplained weight changes, chronic fatigue, and temperature sensitivity.
Seek compensation for thyroid cancer related to AFFF exposure
You may be able to receive compensation if you develop thyroid cancer after AFFF exposure if you are a military firefighter or a civilian firefighter. With over 30 years of experience, our attorneys have successfully helped toxic exposure victims. ELG Law can help you evaluate your PFAS-related thyroid cancer case for free.
