Firefighting is an extremely dangerous occupation for many reasons. Courageous first responders who put their lives on the line to save others deserve our respect and protection as they perform their jobs.
Unfortunately, research has discovered a link between firefighting foam, known as AFFF, and several serious medical conditions.
As a result, almost 10,000 AFFF lawsuits have been filed nationwide, growing monthly.
Many of these claims have been brought by military firefighters routinely exposed to toxic chemicals in AFFF firefighting foams.
Multidistrict Litigation (MDL) Details
- MDL No. 2873 centralized in the District of South Carolina under Judge Richard Gergel
- Nearly 10,000 personal injury lawsuits consolidated, in addition to thousands of municipal water contamination cases
- Plaintiffs allege exposure to PFAS-containing AFFF caused serious health conditions including cancer, immune dysfunction, and organ disease
Cases We’re Currently Accepting
- Individuals who were exposed to AFFF through contaminated drinking water or direct contact during military, firefighting, or airport work
- Diagnosed with:
- Bladder, kidney, prostate, or testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease or hypothyroidism
- Ulcerative colitis or other inflammatory diseases
- Immune system suppression
Recent Key Litigation Developments
- May 2024: Court scheduled personal injury bellwether trials
- June 2025: “Science Day” held to present causation data for PFAS-related health effects
- Ongoing discovery and motions continue ahead of bellwether trials, with focus on Daubert rulings and general causation evidence
The Parties’ Litigation Positions
- Plaintiffs: Argue that manufacturers knew PFAS chemicals used in AFFF were toxic and bioaccumulative but failed to warn users or regulators
- Defendants: Contend that health risks are unproven or minimal at the exposure levels alleged and assert defenses like government contractor immunity
Settlement Potentials
- Water contamination settlements already total over $1.1 billion
- Personal injury claims are still pending but may range from $150,000 to over $1 million, depending on cancer type, exposure duration, and medical documentation
- Bellwether trial outcomes will heavily influence global settlement strategy
Major Concerns / Expectations
- Scientific admissibility of PFAS causation evidence is still under court review
- Bellwether trial outcomes expected to shape the trajectory of thousands of pending claims
- Scope of contamination across military bases, airports, and towns continues to expand as new data emerges
Possible AFFF Injuries
Exposure to toxic chemicals embedded in AFFF firefighting foam, such as PFAS and other forever chemicals, has been linked to several different cancers for which lawsuits have been filed. Specifically, long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to:
Kidney Cancer: Kidneys usually act as blood strainers, removing unnecessary and harmful substances like PFAS before the blood is recycled. This likely makes kidney cells more susceptible to developing gene mutations from interacting with toxic PFAS, which can become kidney cancer if the damaged cells reproduce unchecked.
Testicular Cancer: This uncommon type of cancer begins in the part of the male reproductive system where sperm is made. Cells altered by PFAS exposure multiply and crowd out healthy cells, compromising the testes' ability to function normally. Rates of testicular cancer are typically higher among firefighters, who are regularly exposed to PFAS through AFFF.
Bladder Cancer: When flawed bladder cells, typically the urothelial cells, begin to reproduce out of control, this is known as bladder cancer. Researchers believe the bladder’s role in the urinary system, which helps rid the body of waste like PFAS, may explain its ties to PFAS exposure.
Prostate Cancer: This is a common type of cancer that originates in the prostate gland in men, which helps with sperm growth. At this point, research indicates that higher levels of exposure to PFAS are likely correlated with prostate cancer.
Liver Cancer: Approximately 11,000 women and 25,000 men are diagnosed with liver cancer each year in the United States.
Breast Cancer: Contrary to popular belief, breast cancer can occur in both men and women. Cells with defective DNA overproduce and outnumber healthy cells, often leading to a cancerous mass or lump in the breast. PFAS are known to mess with hormones, and cancers of the reproductive system, like breast cancer, are known to be triggered by fluctuating hormone levels.
Leukemia and Lymphoma: These two types of cancer develop in white blood cells, a key part of your body’s immune response. Leukemia can be particularly dangerous because it begins in the bone marrow but is aided in metastasizing by the bloodstream. Lymphoma is found in damaged white blood cells in the lymph nodes or spleen. Individuals who regularly come into contact with PFAS through AFFF are absorbing toxins that can easily infiltrate the blood, laying the groundwork for these kinds of cancer.
Rectal cancer: As flawed cells located in the rectum multiply, they can accumulate into polyps before becoming rectal cancer. As PFAS make their way through the digestive system over time, they may negatively affect the DNA of large intestine cells where the rectum is located. Rates of rectal cancer are higher among firefighters, who frequently handle AFFF-containing PFAS.
Fertility issues: This includes difficulty conceiving and potentially a higher likelihood of having a stillbirth or miscarriage. Studies have found that women with significant levels of PFAS in their systems may have hormone imbalances that make it difficult for them to get pregnant.
Ulcerative colitis: (UC) is an autoimmune disease that causes the colon and the rectum to be irritated due to an overactive immune response. PFAS may weaken the lining of the digestive tract, making people exposed to high levels of PFAS more prone to inflammation in these areas.
Thyroid cancer: This type of cancer starts in the thyroid gland, which plays a critical role in producing hormones. As discussed, PFAS interferes with the body’s hormone response, and some studies have found that PFAS exposure leads to a 56% increased risk of developing thyroid cancer.
Colorectal cancer: Colorectal cancer develops in the large intestine, which is responsible for the final stages of the digestive process before waste is excreted. PFAS may harm cells in the colon and rectum as the body attempts to process the toxins before growing unrestrained and compromising organ function.
AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit
If you're a firefighter with a history of AFFF exposure or have encountered these dangerous chemicals elsewhere, it's crucial to contact an AFFF cancer lawyer right away.
You may be entitled to compensation for the legal damages and financial losses you have suffered due to AFFF-related illnesses, including related medical bills and lost income.
You are not alone. People just like you have filed numerous AFFF foam lawsuits across the nation.
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is widely used as a fire suppressant when water is ineffective or dangerous for battling a fire. Various chemicals in AFFF, including PFAS, are necessary to create compounds that work well on certain fires.
However, these same chemicals are now considered toxic and carcinogenic, with devastating effects on human health. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has stated, "There is evidence that exposure to PFAS can lead to adverse health outcomes in humans."
Kidney cancer, liver cancer, prostate cancer, and testicular cancer are the most common diseases associated with AFFF firefighting foam.
Don't wait any longer, call us or submit your case for review today!
Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuits - August Updates
Bookmark this page for future reference. We will continue adding updates as new developments occur in the AFFF litigation.
Our goal remains to be the most current update of AFFF lawsuits on the internet. What started as a firefighting foam class action lawsuit has evolved into multidistrict litigation (also known as an "MDL").
In an MDL, all lawsuits filed in Federal Courts throughout the United States are consolidated in a single jurisdiction before one Judge for coordinated discovery and pretrial proceedings. This is done for efficiency by preventing inconsistent rulings from throughout the country.
In 2021, all AFFF firefighting foam lawsuits filed in Federal courts throughout the nation were consolidated before Judge Richard Gergel in the United States District Court for the District of South Carolina. What started out as the AFFF class action lawsuit has evolved into multidistrict litigation that continues to grow.
We can anticipate the first AFFF personal injury claims will proceed to bellwether trials within the next year. The claims left to be resolved are on behalf of individual firefighters exposed to AFFF. Here are the latest updates on the progress of this litigation.
October 1, 2025 - Unexpected Surge in New Filings Changes Litigation Direction
The AFFF firefighting foam litigation surged forward in September with a massive increase in filings, progress in the ulcerative colitis bellwether process, and ongoing uncertainty around the timing of a potential settlement.
37,000+ New Cases Filed in One Week
The AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL) saw an unprecedented jump in case volume last week. More than 37,000 new lawsuits were filed in response to the short-term “Filing Facilitation Window” established by Judge Richard Gergel, who is presiding over the federal MDL.
This surge more than tripled the size of the MDL, which had just over 12,000 cases at the start of the month. With this explosive growth, the AFFF MDL is now one of the largest mass tort proceedings in the United States.
While the September 5 deadline has passed, plaintiffs can still explore additional legal options. However, these may fall outside the MDL structure.
Ulcerative Colitis Cases Advance
On September 16, Judge Gergel approved the selection of three additional ulcerative colitis plaintiffs to move into Tier 2 discovery as part of the Group B bellwether process. One of these cases, along with a previously selected plaintiff, will later proceed to expert discovery. These cases may help determine how courts handle PFAS-related digestive illness claims in the future.
Veterans Still Waiting for Accountability
Many AFFF plaintiffs are veterans or military families exposed to toxic foam on U.S. bases. Despite mounting scientific evidence and strict new EPA standards for PFAS in drinking water, there is still no national registry to track exposure and long-term health effects.
Advocates say that until Congress or the VA takes action, litigation remains the only path to accountability for those harmed by decades of PFAS contamination from exposure to AFFF foam.
Settlement Possibilities Uncertain
Despite earlier signs of progress, no settlement has been reached in the AFFF litigation. Court activity suggests a renewed focus on preparing for the first bellwether trials, including expert discovery and pretrial motions. That said, a global settlement is still possible, and future developments could shift the course of the litigation once again.
September 1, 2025 - AFFF Litigation Moving Quickly Toward Settlement, File Now to Participate
The AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL) continues to evolve quickly, with more than 12,000 personal injury lawsuits now pending. A combination of scientific breakthroughs, legal deadlines, and judicial pressure is accelerating the pace of this litigation and likely moving it toward a global settlement.
First Trial Delayed to Allow Final Wave of Filings
Judge Richard Gergel recently issued a new court order that postpones the first bellwether personal injury trial in the AFFF MDL. The delay was prompted by a surge in unfiled claims, which the court said could disrupt settlement efforts and trial preparations.
- A 21-day “Filing Facilitation Window” has been created, running through September 5, 2025.
- All personal injury cases involving six core conditions—kidney cancer, testicular cancer, liver cancer, thyroid cancer, thyroid disease, and ulcerative colitis—must be filed during this window.
- Plaintiffs must submit documentation proving their diagnosis, PFAS exposure (such as contaminated drinking water or firefighting foam), and residence history.
Although not officially labeled a deadline, the September 5 date could function as a cutoff to join the litigation and participate in a future settlement. If you believe you have a claim, the time to act is now. Contact our team today.
New Study Ties PFAS to Genetic Changes and Cancer Risk
A recent study in Environmental Research strengthens the scientific link between PFAS exposure and disease. Researchers found that firefighters exposed to PFAS—especially from AFFF—had significant changes in microRNAs, the molecules that regulate genes involved in cancer suppression and immune system function.
- The study linked PFAS exposure to changes associated with kidney, liver, bladder, and blood cancers, as well as neurodegenerative and autoimmune diseases.
- These findings support claims that PFAS are not just present in the body; they may actively disrupt biological systems in ways that increase disease risk over time.
Former Firefighter Files New Case
On August 5, 2025, a former firefighter from Arcola, Illinois, filed a new lawsuit in the MDL after being diagnosed with kidney cancer. The plaintiff, who served in both military and civilian fire departments, alleges repeated exposure to PFAS from firefighting foam and contaminated drinking water.
His complaint names multiple chemical manufacturers and suppliers, accusing them of knowingly distributing dangerous products without proper warnings. The case underscores the growing number of occupational exposure claims driving this litigation forward.
Veterans Still Waiting for Help
A significant number of AFFF plaintiffs are veterans or military families, but there’s still no national registry to track PFAS exposure at contaminated bases or monitor long-term health effects. Many veterans face bureaucratic obstacles while trying to prove their illnesses are service-connected.
Until federal support improves, litigation remains the only viable path to compensation and accountability for many of these families.
Key Takeaways This Month
With a likely settlement on the horizon, the court is urging all eligible plaintiffs to file by September 5, 2025. If you or a loved one developed cancer or another illness after exposure to firefighting foam or PFAS-contaminated water, now is the time to speak with the Lawsuit Legal News team about your legal options.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of a possible global settlement by waiting too long. Call us today.
August 1, 2025 - AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuits Surge as New Group of Firefighters File Claims in IL and Settlement Momentum Builds
The Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) litigation continues to gain traction, with a notable spike in new cases and growing indications that a global settlement may be on the horizon. These developments could have major implications for thousands of individuals, especially firefighters, exposed to toxic PFAS chemicals through firefighting foam or protective gear.
New Group Firefighter Lawsuit Filed in Illinois
A newly filed lawsuit in Madison County, Illinois, is drawing national attention. The complaint was brought by a group of current and former civilian and military firefighters from across the U.S. who allege serious health issues linked to prolonged PFAS exposure. The suit names more than 50 manufacturers and distributors, including 3M, DuPont, and Chemours.
According to the complaint, these companies knew for decades about the health dangers associated with PFAS (chemicals commonly found in AFFF and firefighting gear) but failed to warn users or take their products off the market. The plaintiffs have been diagnosed with a range of serious medical conditions, including testicular, kidney, and thyroid cancer, as well as ulcerative colitis and thyroid disease.
The defendants are expected to seek removal of the case to the federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) currently underway in South Carolina, which now serves as the central hub for thousands of similar claims.
MDL Reaches 11,000+ Cases Amid Talk of Settlement
The AFFF MDL continues to expand rapidly, adding 705 new lawsuits in just the past month, bringing the total case count to more than 11,000. This sharp increase reflects a critical moment in the litigation, with many plaintiffs' firms working to file claims before a potential settlement is reached.
Although no settlement has been formally announced, signs point toward meaningful progress. Discovery is mostly complete, bellwether trial plans are in place, and both sides appear to be operating with the procedural focus that often signals serious negotiations.
Why Timing Matters
While no outcome is guaranteed, the current phase of the AFFF litigation may represent a closing window for new plaintiffs. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with cancer or another illness after repeated exposure to firefighting foam, now is the time to explore your legal options.
Lawsuit Legal News continues to accept and monitor these cases closely. Contact our team to learn whether you qualify to file an AFFF lawsuit or join the ongoing MDL before it’s too late.
July 1, 2025 - Under Pressure From the October Trial Date, Settlement Becomes More Likely This Summer
Many firefighters, military personnel, and residents harmed by PFAS-laden foam feel that justice has moved slowly. At Lawsuit Legal News, we remain optimistic that patience will be rewarded, possibly as early as this summer. Recent court actions suggest that things may be about to pick up speed.
Court Pressure & Settlement Climate
- On June 22, the presiding judge urged 3M, DuPont, BASF, Johnson Controls, and others to resolve personal-injury claims before the October bellwether trial.
- Water-system settlements have already eclipsed $13 billion, so these defendants know the financial stakes of the pending personal injury claims.
Road to the First Trial
- A June 17 scheduling order set firm rules: coordinated juror questionnaires, requiring both sides to disclose their 500 core exhibits in advance, and setting schedules for all pre-trial matters before trial starts on October 20, 2025. The court has not chosen which one of three kidney-cancer plaintiffs will lead the way.
Fresh Scientific Support
- A 2020-23 Arizona study (≈2,000 participants) confirms firefighters carry the highest blood serum levels of PFHxS, PFOS, and PFHpS. This data fortifies the causation claims presented in the pending litigation.
Why Timing Matters
- With more than 10,000 suits in the MDL and the judge signaling impatience, the window to join is quickly narrowing. Our team is optimistic that the defendants will try to settle these cases late this summer, before the first trial starts in October. If you are still considering joining this MDL, speaking with one of the AFFF lawsuit lawyers at LLN now can protect your right to share in any upcoming settlement.
June 1, 2025 - Kidney Cancer Bellwether Trial Approaches
The AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL No. 2873) now includes over 9,300 personal injury lawsuits, with a recent surge of 414 new filings in April alone, likely in anticipation of potential settlement discussions.
Upcoming Bellwether Trial (Kidney Cancer Focus)
- The first personal injury bellwether trial is scheduled for October 20, 2025. To minimize jury confusion, it will focus exclusively on kidney cancer claims.
- Judge Richard Gergel is still deciding whether to try one or up to three plaintiffs together in this trial.
- Plaintiffs want to consolidate cases for efficiency and impact; defendants prefer a single-plaintiff trial, favoring the Voelker case, despite its complications.
- Plaintiffs argue that Donnelly or Speers would better meet the court’s goal of testing general and specific causation without unnecessary distractions.
Arguments for Consolidation
- Plaintiffs proposed consolidating five cases (involving both kidney and testicular cancer) due to shared:
- Exposure to the same AFFF products
- Contamination from the same military sites near Willow Grove, PA
- Use of Pennsylvania law, common experts, and similar medical narratives
- Benefits of consolidation:
- Avoids repetitive trials
- Enhances jury understanding by reinforcing patterns
- Limits defense strategies focused on isolating individual plaintiffs
Next Steps
- Daubert (expert witness) and summary judgment rulings are expected later this summer.
- A Science Day is scheduled for June 20, 2025, to present research on links between PFAS exposure and cancer.
- The judge will revisit case consolidation decisions based on these developments.
May 1, 2025 - Settlement Momentum Building: "Final Lap" of the Litigation
The AFFF firefighting foam multidistrict litigation (MDL) appears to be nearing a critical turning point. Lawyers and parties involved are pushing hard to finalize cases, and some attorneys have already stopped accepting new claims, anticipating a potential settlement announcement.
Important: If you are considering filing a claim, the time to act is now. Once settlement negotiations close, there will likely be no advance warning — new claims could be shut out without notice.
Right now, case reviews are moving at a rapid pace. Law firms are carefully verifying product identification, exposure evidence, and medical records to determine which claims qualify for settlement discussions. The litigation feels very much in its "final lap," with heightened urgency across the board.
Upcoming Science Day: Focus on Liver and Thyroid Cancer
The presiding judge has scheduled a Science Day for June 20, 2025, immediately following the regular MDL status conference in Charleston, South Carolina.
This session will focus on the two cancer types most commonly linked to AFFF exposure in the lawsuits:
- Liver cancer
- Thyroid cancer
During Science Day:
- Each side (plaintiffs and defendants) will present four expert witnesses — two for each type of cancer.
- Presentations are intended to educate the Court, not argue the case.
- The event will be off the record and cannot be cited later, but it remains a pivotal moment.
- No direct questioning will occur, but lawyers are expected to carefully craft each presentation to influence the judge’s understanding of PFAS science and cancer causation.
The way the Court interprets the scientific evidence could significantly impact future rulings on expert testimony and the overall direction of the MDL.
Case Count Update: Litigation Continues to Grow
The AFFF MDL continues to grow steadily:
- 498 new cases were added in March 2025, matching the increase from February.
- Total cases pending: 8,928 lawsuits.
This surge comes as discovery deadlines approach, especially for claims involving thyroid and liver cancers, which are central to the upcoming Science Day presentations.
New Deadlines for Expert Disclosures
The Court has set the following key deadlines:
- Plaintiffs' expert reports (liver and thyroid cancer cases): Due July 11, 2025
- Defendants' expert reports: Due August 22, 2025
These deadlines only apply to plaintiffs alleging liver or thyroid cancer.
For plaintiffs with other conditions — such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, ulcerative colitis, or thyroid disease — the original pretrial schedules remain in place.
Bottom Line:
The AFFF firefighting foam litigation is rapidly approaching major milestones. With settlement discussions heating up and critical scientific evidence about to be presented, May 2025 marks an important moment for all involved plaintiffs and their attorneys.
Earlier AFFF Litigation News
At Lawsuit Legal News, our AFFF team, led by Attorney Matthew Dolman of Dolman Law Group, is carefully monitoring the possibility of punitive damage awards. Based on decades-old misconduct by DuPont and 3M, we believe there's a good chance that juries will award punitive damages to injured plaintiffs to punish the corporate activities that placed profits over safety.
For example, there is evidence that in the 1960s, DuPont acknowledged the dangers of AFFF when it warned its workers to use extreme care when handling these chemicals. In the 1970s, studies revealed contaminated fish near the 3M chemical plants. Then, in the 1980s, DuPont pulled all women from its PFAS factory after several female workers gave birth to severely deformed children.
Our team continues to accept AFFF claims, but with the likelihood of a settlement looming, there’s not much time left. Reach out today if you are considering your legal options. Don’t be left out of a possible global settlement.
April 1, 2025 - Another Jump in New Case Filings, Court
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Why Choose Lawsuit Legal News and Dolman Law Group to Guide You Through an AFFF Lawsuit?
Working with experienced firefighting foam cancer lawyers like the team at Dolman Law Group can help you create a successful AFFF firefighting foam cancer lawsuit to recover the financial compensation you need.
Without the assistance of a skilled AFFF lawyer, you may face ongoing financial struggles and continued stress as you try to deal with your circumstances alone.
AFFF lawsuits filed in the pending multi-district litigation (MDL) involve high-profile defendants with the resources to mount a strong defense.
If you have been harmed by AFFF foam exposure, our dedicated firefighting foam cancer lawyers can level the playing field for you and dramatically increase your odds of receiving the full amount of compensation you deserve. The Dolman Law Group team remains ready, willing, and able to assist you with an AFFF cancer lawsuit. Contact us today to learn more.
What to Expect When You Partner With the Lawyers Affiliated With Lawsuit Legal News
When you work with the experienced AFFF lawyers affiliated with Lawsuit Legal News (LLN), you'll have peace of mind knowing that your case is in the hands of a professional litigator with a vested interest in recovering the maximum compensation from the parties that harmed you.
Of course, the best personal injury attorneys do more than just offer legal advice and represent you during negotiations or in court. They also provide the resources and services needed to make the process of filing a lawsuit more convenient and worry-free when you are recovering from demanding injuries or illnesses.
What to Expect From Your AFFF Lawyer
Your AFFF lawyer will help you complete and file the necessary documentation for your firefighting foam cancer claim. They can also help determine what damages you can claim and calculate the maximum amount to request.
Most of all, using extensive knowledge and negotiating skills, the team at LLN will fight for the best possible settlement to help you get the most financial compensation to cover the full extent of your damages.
If a settlement is not possible, you need a litigator who is willing to take your case to trial and advocate for your rights. Attorney Matt Dolman has built a reputation as an aggressive trial attorney who won’t back down. Let him fight for you, too.
The Award-Winning Dolman Law Group Team Has Recovered Millions of Dollars for Injured People Like You
At Dolman Law Group, we are the legal team behind LLN, and we have an extensive, successful history of helping injury victims recover the financial losses they need to protect their futures. Since opening our offices in 2004, we have helped more than 40,000 clients and recovered more than $400 million in settlements and verdicts.
Our lead attorney, Matt Dolman, is an award-winning, highly respected advocate and a lifetime member of the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum because of the results he has achieved for his clients. He is also a nationally recognized firefighting foam attorney.
Our legal professionals supporting LLN have more than 120 years of legal experience and ample resources to successfully resolve large mass tort claims against corporate giants like 3M, DuPont, and Tyco. When you need tough advocates fighting for your legal rights, look no further than Lawsuit Legal News.
What is Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF)?
When most people think of firefighters battling fires, they usually picture brave men and women using fire hoses to spray water and douse rampant flames. In most cases, firefighting relies on this tried and true method of combatting a blaze, but there are some instances where water is not a viable option.
For example, where fires involve certain chemicals or fuel, adding water can worsen the situation. In flammable liquid situations, firefighters turn to aqueous film-forming foam, commonly known as AFFF. When this substance is sprayed onto fires, it creates a foam that turns into a film that smothers the flames by restricting oxygen until the fire is extinguished.
AFFF is usually purchased in a concentrated form that is mixed with water before its use. It comes in 3% or 6% variations depending on the mixture's water ratio. AFFF has been used since the 1960s when it was invented for use by the military primarily as a fire suppression tool for fuel fires.
The Future of Firefighting Foam
Although AFFF has been used extensively for decades, its days are numbered. After so many firefighters and military members have reported illnesses and other medical conditions following exposure to firefighting foam, AFFF has come under scrutiny. AFFF firefighting foam is being phased out due to an increased risk of cancer being discovered.
The phase-out of this product's use by the military is supposed to be completed by 2024, and many civilian institutions have since discontinued its use as well. They are working on a number of alternatives to combat fires caused by flammable liquids. The dangers posed by toxic chemicals such as PFAS greatly outweigh the benefits of utilizing this product.
Of course, for some people, these actions come too late. Hundreds of product liability AFFF lawsuits have been filed around the country seeking fair compensation for those who have been diagnosed with cancer or other serious conditions as a result of their exposure to AFFF. The federal cases have been consolidated into multi-district litigation (MDL) to ensure consistent evidence disclosure and judicial rulings to protect these plaintiffs facing an uncertain future.
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) Lawsuits FAQs
What are Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) Chemicals, and How Do They Relate to AFFF Lawsuits?
Let's start with some background information to explain how AFFF can harm individuals who come in contact with this product. In order to make AFFF foamy and give it its trademark film that smothers fires, AFFF manufacturers utilize per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
PFAS are a controversial set of chemicals that have come under immense scrutiny due to their connection with an increased risk of cancer and their durability and longevity, which makes them an ongoing serious environmental and public health problem.
These chemicals have been used since the 1950s in a variety of applications, where their waterproof and durable characteristics have been very useful. PFAS can be found in a wide range of products, including solvents, food packaging, clothing, and furniture.
PFAS are manmade fluoropolymers that resist heat, oil, grease, and water. These attributes are useful in many circumstances, but the usefulness is offset by the fact that these chemicals take an extremely long time to break down in the environment. Known as "forever chemicals," PFAS can seep into soil and contaminate water sources and can accumulate in the bodies of wildlife and people who are exposed to or drink the toxic water.
Because these chemicals can easily find their way into food and water supplies, they are extremely dangerous. PFAS can accumulate in human bodies over time and can cause significant damage that can affect organ functions and lead to cancer.
These medical conditions can lead to extensive medical costs, the need for long-term care, and substantial changes in the affected person's lifestyle. A dedicated AFFF lawsuit attorney at LLN can explain how to bring a legal claim to recover related expenses and losses after a diagnosis of AFFF-related cancer. If you think your medical issues are related to AFFF exposure, don't wait to reach out to Lawsuit Legal News to learn more about your right to compensation.
Was there a settlement involving AFFF in 2023?
In October 2023, a large number of AFFF water contamination claims filed by local water authorities and municipalities were resolved in a global settlement agreement. 3M, DuPont, and the other defendants will reportedly pay $10.3 billion to resolve these claims as part of the settlement deal.
A few municipal claims, known as the Telomer Water Provider cases, were not included in the global settlement, and the court is now working to resolve those claims. Unfortunately, this means the court is not focusing on individual personal injury claims, and those cases will most likely continue into 2025.
Who is Eligible for an AFFF Lawsuit Claim?
Eligibility for the AFFF Cancer Lawsuit primarily involves veterans and individuals who may have come in contact with Aqueous Film-Forming Foams (AFFF) during their military service or in certain environments and have since developed health conditions or illnesses due to this exposure. You must have used AFFF regularly on the job after 1960, you must have a diagnosis that is related to PFAS exposure, and you must have been discharged from the military other than dishonorably.
Who was affected by exposure to AFFF?
Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) has proven to be a highly effective tool used for fire suppression. The primary way people come into contact with AFFF is through occupational exposure, although certain groups are also at risk of environmental exposure given their proximity to job sites where AFFF is used. The following people are the most likely to be impacted by exposure to AFFF:
- Firefighters: Fire stations across the U.S. have historically relied on AFFF to tame blazes in real-life emergencies and training exercises. Military firefighters also use AFFF for similar purposes. In both cases, they have frequent and considerable contact with the carcinogenic substance.
- Military Personnel: The military is one of the heaviest users of AFFF. Having AFFF on hand and training service members on how to use it is essential to safety given the number of flammable and explosive equipment found on military bases, but that also means many military personnel have been exposed to harmful levels of toxins through AFFF.
- Airport Workers: AFFF is a key element in most airports’ fire safety strategy, as fuel sources abound. However, airport employees who use AFFF to extinguish fires, as well as those who are nearby, have higher rates of exposure.
- Communities Near Military Bases and Airports: AFFF runoff can taint the local water supply, subjecting nearby residents to the harmful effects of its toxins.
- Workers in Industries Using AFFF: Industries that deal with explosive materials and highly flammable liquids often keep AFFF on hand in case a fire breaks out.
AFFF firefighting foam has undeniable benefits when it comes to an immediate safety concern, but in the long term, many believe that the hazardous chemicals it contains are not worth the risk. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS as the chemicals are also known, have heat-resistant properties that allow AFFF to cool off a fire.
PFAS have been dubbed “forever chemicals” because the human body takes a long time to process them once they have been absorbed. As PFAS build up in a person’s system, they can upset the body’s normal routines, leading to a number of serious health issues, such as cancer and chronic conditions like thyroid disease.
The U.S. military, private companies, and other groups have noted the threat AFFF poses to the public. Many sectors are phasing out AFFF and committing researchers to creating other PFAS-free fire extinguishers. While these efforts look promising for reducing AFFF exposure in the future, there is still the matter of compensating individuals who have already been harmed by the forever chemicals in AFFF firefighting foam.
What states have banned AFFF foam?
States are taking swift action to transition to safer and more efficient alternatives. Twelve states, including California, Colorado, Connecticut, Hawaii, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Washington, have implemented bans on the use of all PFAS in firefighting foam, permitting only restricted exceptions.
Which PFAS Chemicals are Found in Aqueous Film Forming Foam?
The two most common forms of PFAS in firefighting foam are perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). Both have been linked to the increased risk of cancer and are considered toxic. Several companies have pledged to phase out the use of PFOS and PFOA, but they are far from completely abandoned. Even once the current use of these chemicals has ended, old PFOA and PFOS will continue to persist in the environment for a long time to come.
AFFF Toxicity Proven to Accumulate and Last For Years
The PFAS found in AFFF are the primary reason why firefighting foam is so hazardous to your health. PFAS can build up in a person’s body over time and remain without breaking down. Research is still ongoing to determine the full effects of PFAS on people’s health, but studies have concluded that PFAS are carcinogenic and also cause disruption of many organ functions.
We know that any exposure to AFFF can be hazardous. However, incidental and isolated cases of exposure alone are usually not enough to cause cancer. Touching some AFFF foam alone will not immediately cause severe health issues, although it is highly recommended that people avoid any exposure to the substance if possible.
Cancer risks and other health issues become a strong concern after repeated exposure over a long period of time. This kind of danger usually happens as a result of working as a firefighter or serving in the military, where AFFF use is still a concern.
What cancerous compounds are found in AFFF?
Two of the compounds in AFFF that are known carcinogens are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS). They are part of the chemical group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). As human-made compounds, they do not occur in the natural environment. Some forms of PFAS can take over 1000 years to degrade. This long degradation period is why the actions we take today have such a huge effect on our future.
Who is At the Greatest Risk of Developing Cancer From AFFF?
AFFF is primarily used by firefighters, so they are at the highest risk for dangerous levels of exposure. Firefighters, in general, are exposed to dangerous substances in the course of their work, and despite the use of protective equipment, it is likely that they will come into contact with AFFF on a regular basis.
Firefighters can come into contact with AFFF while directly applying it to a fire, while preparing it for use, during the cleanup of the area and their protective clothing, and even just handling equipment that has become covered in the substance. As we know, even small amounts of exposure over the course of a career can add up and have a significant health impact on these first responders.
Part of AFFF's function is to leave a film on the surfaces it contacts in order. This film works well not just to smother a flame but also to keep flammable surfaces from reigniting. This has posed a problem since its resilience and pervasiveness on everything it touches makes human exposure and eventual soil and water contamination more likely.
Which Illnesses Are Connected to AFFF Exposure?
AFFF is most notably tied to an increase in cancer risk. The following are the most common types of cancer that have been linked to AFFF exposure.
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Liver cancer
- Breast cancer
- Leukemia
- Lymphoma
- Ovarian cancer
- Prostate cancer
In addition to these various types of cancer, people with long-term exposure to AFFF are more likely to develop a number of other illnesses that include:
- Asthma
- Fertility issues
- Fetal and child developmental disorders
- High blood pressure
- Thyroid disease
Do You Have a Viable AFFF Lawsuit Against Manufacturers or Other Liable Parties?
Firefighting foam is a product that needlessly places firefighters at a high risk of developing severe health problems. Although firefighters understand they must work with a number of dangerous materials to perform their jobs, they have the right to know all potential risks to make the best decisions.
However, when the chemical manufacturers and distributors fail to fully disclose the potential health risks associated with normal AFFF use, their negligence has caused widespread harm to the people in our country who have dedicated their lives to saving others.
Firefighters, emergency responders, and military personnel who have been diagnosed with the listed cancers and illnesses associated with AFFF exposure are taking legal action to recover compensation for the damages they have suffered due to AFFF exposure.
Thousands of product liability lawsuits have been filed against 25 different companies, such as DuPont, 3m, Tyco, and Chemguard, that manufacture and sell AFFF products. The sheer number of federal lawsuits has led to the creation of a multidistrict litigation (MDL-2873) in South Carolina overseen by U.S. District Judge Richard M. Gergel. This MDL consolidates the many claims to make pretrial proceedings more efficient and consistent nationwide while also allowing the coordination of plaintiffs' attorneys and judicial rulings.
The manufacturers of AFFF have already resolved many of the municipal water contamination claims brought by various cities and towns as a result of the damage caused to the local aquifers by firefighting foam. In fact, the very first municipal water contamination case was set to be tried on June 13, 2023 (City of Stuart v. 3M Co.) and was postponed as a large portion of municipal cases were being resolved.
What Damages Can You Claim Related to AFFF Exposure?
Those harmed by AFFF exposure usually suffer severe losses to their financial, physical, and even emotional quality of life. In a product liability lawsuit, financial losses caused by AFFF exposure are considered legal damages. The goal of product liability mass tort claims is to make injured plaintiffs whole by providing sufficient compensation from the responsible parties that caused the plaintiffs' damages, including adverse health effects and the costs associated with treating such.
Allowable damages can involve tangible financial losses like medical bills, known as economic damages, or non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering and loss of quality of life, which do not have an easily attributable dollar value. An experienced product liability attorney can help you determine which damages you have suffered and place a value on your personal injury claim.
Some potential damages involved in these lawsuits include:
- Medical expenses - current and future
- Lost income - current and future
- Pain and suffering
- Lost earning ability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability
- Loss of consortium and family relationships
How Long Do You Have to File a Firefighting Foam Lawsuit?
Every state has created Statutes of Limitation that control how long an injured person can wait before filing a lawsuit to hold someone responsible for their injuries. The timeline that relates to your case will depend on many factors, including where you were injured, when you discovered your injuries, whether you can link them to prior AFFF exposure, and many other details. To ensure you don't miss your window of opportunity to bring a firefighting foam lawsuit, consult with one of the mass tort lawyers at LLN, who can help you calculate the limitation period that controls your potential legal action.
How Much is Your AFFF Lawsuit Worth?
Because every person exposed to AFFF has a different experience and is facing different medical concerns, we can't say what your specific case is worth without learning more about you.
During a free consultation with one of the LLN team members, we can gather more information to help us estimate the potential value of your AFFF injury claim.
How Much Does a Mass Tort Lawyer Cost?
Don't let the fear of paying a lawyer keep you from contacting the LLN mass tort team. We offer free consultations to ensure all your questions are answered, and we don't get paid until we successfully resolve your injury claim. Since you won't have to pay anything upfront, you have nothing to lose. Don't risk your future. Reach out today.
Others Who May Experience AFFF Exposure and Bring an AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit
While firefighters are the most at-risk group for harmful AFFF exposure, other people also can come into contact with AFFF in sufficient amounts and recurrence that they may face serious health risks.
Military personnel is at high risk for AFFF exposure because this product is commonly used in military settings such as airfields and ships to combat potential fuel fires.
Airport personnel can also be at risk for contact with AFFF since many airports have a history of using firefighting foam.
The LLN team also represents several airport workers who were exposed to high levels of PFAS while working as airport firefighters and training extensively with AFFF firefighting foam. This, in turn, impacted the drinking water with unacceptable levels of dangerous chemicals such as PFAS.
Some Claimants Were Harmed by Exposure to Persistent AFFF in the Environment
AFFF is made with chemicals that are forever resistant to breaking down safely in the environment. AFFF that is improperly disposed of can easily seep into the water table and end up in the bodies of residents and wildlife.
Areas that regularly use AFFF, such as military bases, airports, and firefighter training facilities, have been tested and show dangerous levels of PFAS in the water.
People that live in the vicinity of sites where AFFF is used regularly are at an increased risk of exposure to harmful PFAS that can elevate their risk of cancer and other serious health concerns.
If you have received a cancer diagnosis following exposure to toxic firefighting foam, call our firefighting foam lawyers today for a free consultation at 866-535-9515 or email me at matt@dolmanlaw.com.
Who are the AFFF Manufacturers & Defendants
The LLN team is currently investigating claims involving the following AFFF manufacturers:
- Tyco Fire Products
- 3M Company
- Dupont
- Chemguard
- Kiddr Fire Fighting
- Buckeye Fire Equipment
- Chemours Company
Contact an AFFF Lawsuit Attorney at Lawsuit Legal News About Your Firefighting Foam Lawsuit Today
If you have been injured due to AFFF foam exposure, it's best to consult with an experienced firefighting foam lawyer with experience in AFFF lawsuits as soon as possible.
Partnering with a skilled attorney at Lawsuit Legal News and Dolman Law Group will help you gather the necessary evidence to prepare your firefighting foam cancer lawsuit effectively and create a solid legal claim. Contact our experienced firefighting foam lawyers today.
Our AFFF firefighting foam lawyers remain ready, willing, and able to help you file a lawsuit and seek compensation for the harm and losses you sustained from exposure to harmful chemicals. We are working on claims against every conceivable firefighting form manufacturer, including giant corporations such as Chevron, 3M, DuPont, and Chemguard.
Don't wait any longer! Call 866-535-9515 or submit your case for review today!
Don't wait any longer, call us or submit your case for review today!