High cholesterol occurs when someone has too much of a fatty substance known as cholesterol in their blood. It is often caused by eating fatty foods, lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking, and excessive alcohol drinking. Nevertheless, high cholesterol is also common in civilian and military firefighters who work with the fire suppressant AFFF, as exposure to the PFAS in this firefighting foam can cause this health condition. According to medical studies, some PFAS increase the level of "bad" cholesterol, while others increase the "good" type. Specifically, exposure to PFOS and PFNA can result in high concentrations of "bad" cholesterol. Furthermore, exposure to certain PFAS is associated with increased blood lipid levels in firefighters.
It has been known for years that old-generation PFAS can increase cholesterol, but the potency is significant. High concentrations of PFAS could push people, particularly older firefighters exposed to AFFF, into the "high cholesterol" category, which can easily increase the risk of heart disease, according to studies. The researchers in a study observed a positive association between concentrations of PFOS, PFOA, and PFNA and total cholesterol. Interestingly, they found the opposite for the chemical PFHxS. Consequently, only exposure to certain PFAS has a link to high cholesterol.
There are generally no symptoms of high cholesterol. However, if you have the condition and it is left untreated, it can cause a heart attack or stroke. For this reason, it is crucial for civilian and military firefighters who used AFFF to have their cholesterol levels checked regularly. Still, some of the signs that you might have high cholesterol are:
Nonetheless, the only way to know whether you have high cholesterol is by undergoing a blood test looking at your lipid levels. If you are a firefighter exposed to AFFF with high cholesterol and want to file a claim to recover financial compensation, you will have to provide our expert team with your medical records, which must state that your cholesterol levels are 240mg/dL or higher, or your medical records stating high cholesterol and evidence of your prescription or treatment plan.
With over 35 years of experience in reviewing toxic exposure and personal injury claims, our team of professionals is ready to help civilian and military firefighters exposed to AFFF with high cholesterol determine whether they are entitled to financial compensation. The process of assessing your claim is very simple and will take place over the phone. We will only need your military or employment records and your medical records to evaluate your case and establish your eligibility. If we find out that you are entitled to compensation for your condition, we will promptly direct you to a reliable attorney so you can have your claim filed as soon as possible.
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