What Veterans Need to Know About Military Firefighting Foam and Health Risks
Military firefighters often use aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), which contains harmful chemicals known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Research links PFAS exposure from firefighting foam to an increased risk of cancer. This makes PFAS exposure a critical issue for veterans seeking VA disability compensation.
Firefighters & Military PFAS Exposure Risks
Military firefighters control and prevent fires on bases, aircraft, and ships. Due to frequent use of AFFF, they face a higher risk of PFAS exposure, leading to serious health problems, including cancer.
AFFF & PFAS on Military Bases
Since the late 1960s, the U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) has required AFFF use in all military branches to fight high-intensity fires involving flammable substances like oil or petroleum. Consequently, military bases have some of the highest concentrations of PFAS, as reported by the Environmental Working Group (EWG). The DOD plans to phase out PFAS-containing AFFF by 2024.
Health Risks from PFAS Exposure
PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they do not decompose over time. They can remain in the body for years, causing significant health risks. Health organizations like the CDC, EPA, and ACS have linked PFAS exposure to several types of cancer and other health issues, such as:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Leukemia
- Liver cancer
- Lymphoma
- Multiple myeloma
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Renal or kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Ulcerative colitis
- Uterine or endometrial cancer
Different Types of Firefighting Foam
There are two main types of firefighting foam:
- Class A Foam: Used to extinguish fires caused by wood, paper, or brush. These foams do not contain PFAS.
- Class B Foam (AFFF): Used for fires involving gasoline, oil, petroleum, and jet fuel. These foams often contain PFAS.
Firefighting Foam Manufacturers
Several companies have manufactured and distributed AFFF, including:
- 3M Company
- Ansul®
- Chemguard, Inc.
- DuPont™
- Dynax Corporation
- National Foam
- Tyco Fire Products
The U.S. military has been a significant consumer of these PFAS-containing foams.
VA Disability Claims for AFFF Military Exposure
Veterans with service-related disabilities, including those caused by PFAS exposure from firefighting foam, may qualify for VA disability benefits. If the VA denies a claim, veterans have the right to appeal. Military firefighters exposed to PFAS can also file a lawsuit to seek compensation for medical bills and secure their family’s financial future.
You may be able to file a PFAS lawsuit if you:
- Worked as a firefighter
- Were exposed to toxic firefighting foams
- Were diagnosed with leukemia; lymphoma; or pancreatic, kidney, testicular, thyroid, bladder, breast, colon, liver, or prostate cancer
Through a PFAS lawsuit, you may receive compensation for injuries due to PFAS exposure.
Tucker Disability Law: Assisting Veterans Affected by PFAS Exposure
Veterans who have applied for disability and had their claim denied have a right to file an appeal.
Veterans with preexisting conditions made worse by their time in service, or who develop service-connected disabilities, may also apply for benefits. If you feel that you qualify for a claim related to PFAS exposure from firefighting foam, don’t delay; contact us immediately.
You may be one of the thousands of veterans frustrated because you feel you have been underrated by the VA or that upcoming changes will cause you to be underrated.
Tucker Disability Law has helped veterans in every kind of situation for over 30 years. We can help you too. Contact us so we can discuss your specific situation and make sure you’re getting the benefits you deserve. If you have any condition likely related to PFAS exposure from firefighting foam, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help with your claim, whether it involves filing an initial claim or appealing one that’s been denied.
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