Firefighter foam - (AFFF)

---

Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) originated in the 1960s through development by the U.S. Navy. Its purpose was to rapidly extinguish flammable liquid fires, particularly those involving fuels. AFFF achieves this by creating a film on the surface of hydrocarbon fuels, preventing reignition. Modern AFFF formulations include fluorinated surfactants like perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). These chemicals provide AFFF with its fire-extinguishing properties. However, PFOS, PFOA, and related per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are associated with significant health effects in both humans and animals. These are known as "forever chemicals" because they are difficult to break down and can remain in a person forever.

It is reported that some companies who produce this foam may have known about the health risks of their fire foams for decades but did not properly alert their users!

While it effectively smothers flames, it’s also laced with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), commonly known as “forever chemicals.” These insidious compounds have been linked to serious health risks, including cancer. Here’s the lowdown: 

• Cancer Connection: Firefighters, both military and civilian, have used AFFF for decades. But little did they know that the very gear and equipment meant to protect them could be harming them. Cancer now accounts for a staggering 72% of active-duty firefighter deaths, surpassing smoke inhalation as the primary culprit. The heart-wrenching stories of  firefighters and their families - like Lt. Jay Leach’s wife, Tracy - underscore the urgency of this issue. Tracy battled breast cancer,  and while we can’t definitively prove AFFF as the cause, the suspicion looms large.
• Other Health Risks: Beyond cancer, AFFF exposure can lead to thyroid disease, liver damage, cardiovascular issues, and immune disorders. Imagine donning that protective gear, unaware that you’re wrapping yourself in suspected carcinogens. It’s like fighting fire with fire, literally.

Immediate Symptoms of AFFF Exposure:

• Respiratory Distress: Individuals exposed to AFFF may experience coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness due to inhalation of the foam or its fumes.
• Skin Irritation: Direct contact with AFFF can lead to skin rashes and irritation.

Short-Term Effects:

• Gastrointestinal Discomfort: Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea can occur if AFFF is ingested.
• Eye Irritation: Redness, itching, or discomfort in the eyes may result from exposure.

Long-Term Effects:

• Increased Cancer Risk: AFFF exposure has been linked to an elevated risk of certain cancers, including kidney, testicular, and bladder cancer.
• Liver Damage: Prolonged exposure to AFFF may harm the liver.
• Thyroid Problems: Some studies suggest a connection between AFFF exposure and thyroid dysfunction.
• High Cholesterol: Elevated cholesterol levels have been observed in        individuals exposed to AFFF.
• Immune System Changes: AFFF chemicals can impact the immune system.
• Fertility Issues: Although less well-established, there are concerns about fertility problems related to AFFF exposure.

• Bladder cancer
• Breast cancer
• Colorectal cancer (colon and/or rectal cancer)
• Leukemia
• Liver
• Lymphoma
• Ovarian cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Renal or kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer and disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Uterine or endometrial cancer

• If  you suspect exposure to AFFF or are experiencing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly – and then reach out us!

Consult Your Doctor:

• First and foremost, seek medical attention. Discuss your symptoms and potential AFFF exposure with your healthcare provider. Document your medical diagnoses and any relevant information.

Know the Health Effects:

• Understand the short-term and long-term health effects associated with AFFF exposure. These can include skin and eye irritation,  gastrointestinal discomfort, and more serious conditions like cancer, liver damage, and thyroid problems.

Collect Evidence:

• Gather documentation related to your exposure. This might include records of your military service, photographs, training, or work in environments where AFFF was used.
• Obtain medical records that link your health conditions to AFFF exposure.

Contact Cohen Hirsch law firm

• www.cohenhirsch.com 
• You’re not alone in this journey. Many others have faced similar challenges, and seeking professional advice and support is crucial. 
• We do not charge you any upfront fees. There is no cost to you unless we reach a settlement.