Bladder cancer is the fourth most commonly diagnosed cancer in men in the U.S. While the disease is more common in people over 65 years old, certain risk factors can affect your chances of developing this condition at a younger age.
The signs of bladder cancer include frequent urination, blood in the urine, and pelvic pain. Smoking is a strong risk factor, but occupational hazards and chemical exposure can elevate risks.
Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) contains perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are widely known for their harmful effects on humans and animals, including an increased risk of developing cancer.
PFAS have been linked to various cancers, including genitourinary cancers. A Nature publication reported that PFOS and PFHxS were associated with kidney cancer and bladder cancer in men. Out of more than 100 types of PFAS found in legacy stocks of AFFF, PFOS and PFHxS were the highest in concentrations, respectively.
These stocks had been in production for decades and were continuously supplied to the military until 2001. With the long life span of PFAS-based products, stockpiles remain in military bases and fire department stations until 2025. Long-term exposure to these foams has put the health of military and civilian firefighters in danger, and their odds of developing cancers and diseases may have been seriously impacted.
After PFAS were introduced in the 1950s, they could be found in many products like kitchenware, turnout gear, and AFFF. These chemicals are persistent in the environment and bioaccumulative, which means PFAS levels continue to build up in our blood and tissues.
Military and civilian firefighters had the longest and most frequent exposures from the use of AFFF at work, and they were in danger of repeated inhalation and direct contact in military bases and training centers. There is growing evidence that the risks for PFAS-associated diseases are significantly high. A study published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention found that firefighters had an 18% increased risk for bladder cancer (risk estimate: 1.18), along with elevated risks for testicular cancer and prostate cancer.
Bladder cancer has a high (78%) five-year survival rate, but treatment and recovery can be costly. If you have been frequently exposed to AFFF and have been diagnosed with bladder cancer, we highly encourage you to pursue a claim to recover medical costs.
Atraxia Law helps military and civilian firefighters explore their legal options after being diagnosed with cancer. To start the process, we will evaluate your employment or military records and medical documents showing your diagnosis. If you are eligible, you will be connected to an AFFF exposure attorney who can file your claim.