Time is Limited - Act Now
Time is Limited
Act Now
Firefighters and Military Personnel Who Have Been Diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis Caused by Exposure to AFFF Firefighting Foam Are Urged to Get a Free, Private Case Evaluation for Justice and Compensation
The symptoms to look for in instances where Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) containing Per and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) is responsible for a ulcerative colitis diagnosis may include:
- Rectal pain
- Rectal bleeding
- Urgency to defecate
- Inability to defecate despite urgency
- Diarrhea, with blood or pus
- Abdominal pain and cramping
- Weight loss
- And, fatigue
There is limited time remaining to file a legal claim. ACT NOW!
There is limited time remaining to file a legal claim. ACT NOW!
If your career involved the dedicated service of firefighting or the unwavering commitment of the military, and you have since been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, 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 ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
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 ulcerative colitis, 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 ulcerative colitis and how we can assist you.
AFFF and Ulcerative Colitis: Understanding the Risks
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) was widely utilized to quickly and effectively suppress flammable liquid fires. Its effectiveness stemmed from including per- and polyfluoroalkyl 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 ulcerative colitis. PFAS can disrupt the gut microbiome and contribute to chronic inflammation in the colon.
While research is ongoing, studies have indicated a correlation between PFAS exposure and an increased incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis, particularly in populations with occupational exposure like firefighters and military personnel.
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 used 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, particularly on military bases where AFFF contamination of water sources has been documented.
If your service in either of these fields involved regular contact with firefighting foam or potential exposure to contaminated water on military installations, your risk of developing ulcerative colitis may be significantly elevated.
Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms: What to Recognize
Recognizing the symptoms of ulcerative colitis is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Being vigilant about potential signs is essential if you have a history of AFFF exposure.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include:
- Diarrhea, often with blood or pus: Frequent and urgent bowel movements containing blood or pus.
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Pain and spasms in the abdominal area.
- Rectal pain: Pain in the rectum.
- Rectal bleeding: Passing blood from the rectum.
- Urgency to defecate: A sudden and intense need to have a bowel movement.
- Inability to defecate despite urgency: Feeling the need to go but unable to.
- Weight loss: Losing weight unintentionally due to inflammation and malabsorption.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy.
- Fever: An elevated body temperature during flare-ups.
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count, which can cause fatigue.
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.
Expert Insight: The Emerging Link to Inflammatory Bowel Disease
While the direct link between PFAS and ulcerative colitis is still being actively researched, emerging evidence suggests a connection between PFAS exposure and inflammatory bowel diseases.
According to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, "There is suggestive evidence of an association between exposure to some PFAS and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)." This highlights the growing concern within the scientific community regarding the potential for PFAS to contribute to conditions like ulcerative colitis.
Don't Delay: Your Time to File a Claim May Be Limited
It is crucial to understand that legal claims related to AFFF exposure and ulcerative colitis are subject to statutes of limitations, which are deadlines that restrict the time you have to file a lawsuit. These deadlines vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of your exposure and diagnosis.
Do not delay in seeking legal counsel. The sooner you contact experienced legal professionals, the better your opportunity to understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Recent Updates in AFFF Litigation and Ulcerative Colitis Claims
The multidistrict litigation (MDL) in South Carolina, In re Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation (MDL-2873), is actively addressing claims related to various health issues, including ulcerative colitis, stemming from AFFF exposure. Here are some relevant updates as of May 12, 2025:
- Increasing Number of Ulcerative Colitis Cases: A growing number of the over 9,300 pending cases in the AFFF MDL involve individuals who have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis following potential exposure to AFFF, particularly among military personnel who may have been exposed through contaminated water on bases.
- Focus on Ulcerative Colitis in Bellwether Discovery: The legal teams involved are actively engaged in the discovery process for cases involving ulcerative colitis, gathering medical records, exposure histories, and expert opinions to build strong cases for trial.
- Potential for Ulcerative Colitis Bellwether Trials: The court has indicated that cases involving ulcerative colitis are among those being actively prepared for potential bellwether trials. This signifies the importance of these claims within the broader litigation.
- No Specific Ulcerative Colitis Settlements Announced Yet: As of this date, there have been no broad settlement agreements specifically for ulcerative colitis cases within the AFFF MDL. However, the ongoing litigation and the increasing focus on this condition suggest that such settlements could be possible. Individual settlement amounts are typically kept confidential.
- Recent Court Activity on Water Contamination: Recent court filings and discussions have increasingly focused on the AFFF contamination of water sources on military bases and the potential link to conditions like ulcerative colitis in those stationed at these bases.
These developments underscore the seriousness with which ulcerative colitis claims are being treated within the AFFF litigation. If you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and have a history of AFFF exposure, particularly through military service, it is crucial to seek legal counsel now to ensure your claim is considered.
How We Can Help: Dedicated Advocates for Ulcerative Colitis Victims
We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to firefighters and military personnel who have developed ulcerative colitis due to AFFF exposure. We will:
- Provide a free and confidential case evaluation to understand your situation thoroughly.
- Conduct a comprehensive investigation into your AFFF exposure history, including potential water contamination.
- Collaborate with leading medical experts to establish the link between your exposure and ulcerative colitis diagnosis.
- Manage all aspects of the complex legal process on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your health.
- Aggressively pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Offer personalized support and clear communication throughout your legal journey.
Your health and your family's well-being are essential. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Don't Wait: Your Opportunity for Justice is Now
If you are a firefighter or military veteran who has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and has a history of exposure to AFFF firefighting foam, including potential exposure through contaminated water on military bases, it is imperative to take immediate action to protect your legal rights.
Request a free, private case evaluation today by filling out the confidential contact form.
Do not delay seeking the justice and compensation you deserve for your ulcerative colitis. Contact us now for a confidential review of your case. ACT NOW!
Those who qualify may request a free, private case evaluation by a personal injury attorney!
Find Out if You Qualify
Firefighting Foam Cases
There is limited time remaining to file a legal claim. ACT NOW!
If your career involved the dedicated service of firefighting or the unwavering commitment of the military, and you have since been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, 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 ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease.
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 ulcerative colitis, 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 ulcerative colitis and how we can assist you.
AFFF and Ulcerative Colitis: Understanding the Risks
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) was widely utilized to quickly and effectively suppress flammable liquid fires. Its effectiveness stemmed from including per- and polyfluoroalkyl 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 ulcerative colitis. PFAS can disrupt the gut microbiome and contribute to chronic inflammation in the colon.
While research is ongoing, studies have indicated a correlation between PFAS exposure and an increased incidence of inflammatory bowel diseases, including ulcerative colitis, particularly in populations with occupational exposure like firefighters and military personnel.
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 used 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, particularly on military bases where AFFF contamination of water sources has been documented.
If your service in either of these fields involved regular contact with firefighting foam or potential exposure to contaminated water on military installations, your risk of developing ulcerative colitis may be significantly elevated.
Ulcerative Colitis Symptoms: What to Recognize
Recognizing the symptoms of ulcerative colitis is crucial for timely diagnosis and management. Being vigilant about potential signs is essential if you have a history of AFFF exposure.
Symptoms of ulcerative colitis may include:
- Diarrhea, often with blood or pus: Frequent and urgent bowel movements containing blood or pus.
- Abdominal pain and cramping: Pain and spasms in the abdominal area.
- Rectal pain: Pain in the rectum.
- Rectal bleeding: Passing blood from the rectum.
- Urgency to defecate: A sudden and intense need to have a bowel movement.
- Inability to defecate despite urgency: Feeling the need to go but unable to.
- Weight loss: Losing weight unintentionally due to inflammation and malabsorption.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired and lacking energy.
- Fever: An elevated body temperature during flare-ups.
- Anemia: Low red blood cell count, which can cause fatigue.
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.
Expert Insight: The Emerging Link to Inflammatory Bowel Disease
While the direct link between PFAS and ulcerative colitis is still being actively researched, emerging evidence suggests a connection between PFAS exposure and inflammatory bowel diseases.
According to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, "There is suggestive evidence of an association between exposure to some PFAS and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)." This highlights the growing concern within the scientific community regarding the potential for PFAS to contribute to conditions like ulcerative colitis.
Don't Delay: Your Time to File a Claim May Be Limited
It is crucial to understand that legal claims related to AFFF exposure and ulcerative colitis are subject to statutes of limitations, which are deadlines that restrict the time you have to file a lawsuit. These deadlines vary depending on the jurisdiction and the specific circumstances of your exposure and diagnosis.
Do not delay in seeking legal counsel. The sooner you contact experienced legal professionals, the better your opportunity to understand your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Recent Updates in AFFF Litigation and Ulcerative Colitis Claims
The multidistrict litigation (MDL) in South Carolina, In re Aqueous Film-Forming Foams Products Liability Litigation (MDL-2873), is actively addressing claims related to various health issues, including ulcerative colitis, stemming from AFFF exposure. Here are some relevant updates as of May 12, 2025:
- Increasing Number of Ulcerative Colitis Cases: A growing number of the over 9,300 pending cases in the AFFF MDL involve individuals who have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis following potential exposure to AFFF, particularly among military personnel who may have been exposed through contaminated water on bases.
- Focus on Ulcerative Colitis in Bellwether Discovery: The legal teams involved are actively engaged in the discovery process for cases involving ulcerative colitis, gathering medical records, exposure histories, and expert opinions to build strong cases for trial.
- Potential for Ulcerative Colitis Bellwether Trials: The court has indicated that cases involving ulcerative colitis are among those being actively prepared for potential bellwether trials. This signifies the importance of these claims within the broader litigation.
- No Specific Ulcerative Colitis Settlements Announced Yet: As of this date, there have been no broad settlement agreements specifically for ulcerative colitis cases within the AFFF MDL. However, the ongoing litigation and the increasing focus on this condition suggest that such settlements could be possible. Individual settlement amounts are typically kept confidential.
- Recent Court Activity on Water Contamination: Recent court filings and discussions have increasingly focused on the AFFF contamination of water sources on military bases and the potential link to conditions like ulcerative colitis in those stationed at these bases.
These developments underscore the seriousness with which ulcerative colitis claims are being treated within the AFFF litigation. If you have been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and have a history of AFFF exposure, particularly through military service, it is crucial to seek legal counsel now to ensure your claim is considered.
How We Can Help: Dedicated Advocates for Ulcerative Colitis Victims
We are dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation to firefighters and military personnel who have developed ulcerative colitis due to AFFF exposure. We will:
- Provide a free and confidential case evaluation to understand your situation thoroughly.
- Conduct a comprehensive investigation into your AFFF exposure history, including potential water contamination.
- Collaborate with leading medical experts to establish the link between your exposure and ulcerative colitis diagnosis.
- Manage all aspects of the complex legal process on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your health.
- Aggressively pursue maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other damages.
- Offer personalized support and clear communication throughout your legal journey.
Your health and your family's well-being are essential. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Don't Wait: Your Opportunity for Justice is Now
If you are a firefighter or military veteran who has been diagnosed with ulcerative colitis and has a history of exposure to AFFF firefighting foam, including potential exposure through contaminated water on military bases, it is imperative to take immediate action to protect your legal rights.
Request a free, private case evaluation today by filling out the confidential contact form.
Do not delay seeking the justice and compensation you deserve for your ulcerative colitis. Contact us now for a confidential review of your case. ACT NOW!
Those who qualify may request a free, private case evaluation by a personal injury attorney!
100% Free & Secure Case Evaluations
Answer a few basic questions to get started
We'll ask specific questions to understand the situation, the injuries, and other vital info to help determine the next steps.
Receive a confidential case evaluation
A qualified legal team led by a personal injury attorney will consider the facts of the case and the potential for compensation.
Have an individual claim filed for compensation
Those that qualify will have an individual claim filed in a court of law for the justice and compensation they deserve.
Don't suffer cancer diagnoses in silence any longer-we fight for justice!
Victims of AFFF firefighting foams-and the families who suffer with them-should have every opportunity to address the manufacturers and get the compensation and justice they deserve.
