If your career involved the dedicated service of firefighting or the unwavering commitment of the military, and you have since been diagnosed with thyroid cancer or hypothyroidism, your past exposure to Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) could be the underlying cause. AFFF was a standard and effective tool for extinguishing dangerous fuel-based fires in both professions for decades. Unfortunately, this seemingly essential foam contained harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) that have been linked to an increased risk of thyroid disorders, including cancer and hypothyroidism.

We are a dedicated team of legal professionals committed to advocating for the rights of firefighters and military personnel who have suffered health consequences, including thyroid cancer and hypothyroidism, due to AFFF exposure. We offer a free and confidential case evaluation to help you understand your legal options and determine if you can pursue significant compensation for your illness and suffering. Time is a critical factor, as there are deadlines for filing legal claims. Learn more about the connection between AFFF and thyroid issues and how we can assist you.

AFFF and Thyroid Disorders: Understanding the Risks

Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) was widely used to quickly and effectively suppress flammable liquid fires. Its effectiveness stemmed from the inclusion of per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a class of synthetic chemicals known for their water and oil repellency.

However, the properties that made PFAS effective in firefighting also make them persistent in the environment and the human body. These "forever chemicals" can accumulate over time, and scientific research has increasingly linked exposure to certain PFAS, such as PFOA and PFOS, to an elevated risk of thyroid disorders, including both cancer and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid). PFAS can interfere with normal thyroid function, potentially leading to these conditions.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), a federal public health agency, explicitly states that PFAS exposure has been linked to "thyroid disease." This broad term encompasses both thyroid cancer and other thyroid dysfunctions like hypothyroidism, underscoring the potential danger faced by individuals with occupational exposure to AFFF.

Who Faced Exposure? Firefighters and Military Personnel

The routine and widespread use of AFFF in firefighting and military operations meant that numerous personnel were potentially exposed to harmful PFAS.

Firefighters:

• Municipal Firefighters: Regularly use AFFF to respond to fire emergencies and during training exercises.
• Volunteer Firefighters: Often exposed during local fire incidents and training drills involving flammable liquids.
• Airport Firefighters (ARFF): Critically relied on AFFF for aircraft fire suppression and safety protocols.
• Industrial Fire Brigade Members: Employed at facilities with flammable materials, utilizing AFFF for fire safety.
• Firefighting Trainers: Used AFFF in live fire demonstrations, potentially exposing themselves and trainees.

Military Personnel:

• Air Force Firefighters: Responsible for aircraft and facility fire protection on air bases, with frequent AFFF use.
• Navy Firefighters: Served on naval vessels and shore installations, handling fire suppression with AFFF.
• Army Firefighters: Protected Army bases and equipment, including aviation assets, where AFFF was standard.
• Marine Corps Firefighters: Involved in aviation and structural firefighting on Marine Corps bases and air stations.
• Coast Guard Personnel: Used AFFF on vessels and air stations for flammable liquid fire emergencies.
• Other Military Roles: Personnel involved in aircraft maintenance, flight line operations, and emergency response training may also have experienced AFFF exposure.

If your service in either of these fields involved regular contact with firefighting foam, your risk of developing thyroid cancer or hypothyroidism may be significantly elevated.

Thyroid Cancer and Hypothyroidism Symptoms: What to Recognize

Early detection of thyroid cancer and recognition of hypothyroidism symptoms are crucial for effective management. Being vigilant about potential signs is essential if you have a history of AFFF exposure.

Symptoms of Thyroid Cancer may include:

• A lump (nodule) in the front of the neck is often the most noticeable sign.
• Swollen glands (lymph nodes) in the neck: Enlarged nodes may indicate the spread of cancer.
• Pain in the throat or neck: Persistent discomfort in these areas.
• Hoarseness or other voice changes: Changes in vocal quality that are not resolved.
• Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia): A sensation of food getting stuck.
• Difficulty breathing (dyspnea): Feeling short of breath or wheezing.
• A cough that persists and is not caused by a cold: A chronic cough without a clear respiratory illness.

Symptoms of Hypothyroidism may include:

• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy.
• Weight gain: Unexplained increase in body weight.
• Feeling cold: Increased sensitivity to cold temperatures.
• Constipation: Difficulty with bowel movements.
• Dry skin: Skin that feels rough and flaky.
• Hair loss: Thinning of hair.
• Muscle weakness: Feeling less strength in your muscles.
• Depression: Persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness.
• Memory problems: Difficulty concentrating or remembering things.

If you experience any of these symptoms and have a history of AFFF exposure, it is vital to seek medical attention promptly and inform your healthcare provider about your potential exposure.