There is no doubt about it: fires are devastating natural phenomena that can destroy homes, buildings and entire communities. However, if the solution to fires is just as dangerous as the fire itself, problems can develop as well.
This is exactly what has happened with Aqueous Film Forming Foam or AFFF, a substance used to snuff out fires which has led to unfortunate side effects in those who have been exposed to it. If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer or experienced any other side effects as a result of exposure to AFFF, talk to an experienced AFFF lawyer today.
Aqueous Film Forming Foam
AFFF is commonly used in areas where fires need to be immediately suppressed in order to avoid explosion or catastrophe such as at airports or military bases. The substance is extremely effective at putting out fires, but is made up of toxic substances that can leach into the drinking water of nearby areas.
One such toxic substance found in AFFF is PFAS or polyfluoroalkyl substances. PFAS have been designated as “forever chemicals” due to the fact that they almost never break down. Additionally, these chemicals have been found to be potentially carcinogenic and may lead to a variety of cancers in humans.
Which Types of Cancer Have Been Associated with AFFF?
Cancers affecting the following body systems and organs have been reported from AFFF exposure:
- Renal;
- Pancreas;
- Breast;
- Liver;
- Bladder;
- Thyroid;
- And more.
More links are being defined as the chemicals undergo further studies, but the preliminary research indicates that cancer is a fairly common occurrence in people living near areas where PFAS are found in the drinking water.
I Think I May Qualify for an AFFF Lawsuit, What Do I Do?
The first necessary step is to contact a qualified AFFF lawyer immediately. This will help in many ways including:
- Raising Awareness of the Issue. At this point, the link between cancer and AFFF is not well-publicized. While many people have been diagnosed with cancer and the correlation is being more clearly defined as time goes by, it remains a relatively unknown phenomenon. Your willingness to work with a lawyer will help others recognize the danger and get treatment as needed.
- Helping You Receive the Compensation you Deserve. Working with a skilled AFFF lawyer will help you get all of the compensation to which you are entitled. If you don’t work with a lawyer, you may be pressured into signing an agreement which will be much lower than what you deserve for your pain, suffering, and medical bills.
Conclusion
If you’ve developed cancer as a result of exposure to AFFF, don’t wait: call an AFFF lawyer today. These professionals will assist you in navigating the tricky world of AFFF lawsuits and help to raise awareness so that more people don’t have to suffer the same issues you did. If you’re worried that your AFFF lawyer may not be able to help, you should know that many of these attorneys offer free consultations to determine the best course of action and can help you decide if you’d like to retain their services.