Chemicals associated with a higher risk of developing multiple myeloma include perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS).
If you are a military or civilian firefighter, you have likely been exposed to these chemicals through constant use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) at work. If you have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma, you may be eligible to file an AFFF exposure claim.
Multiple myeloma begins in the blood's plasma cells, which are made in the bone marrow. Some of the early signs of multiple myeloma are bone pain or bone weakness, low blood counts, and high calcium levels in the blood.
The lifetime risk of developing multiple myeloma for the U.S. general population is 1 in 108 for men and 1 in 133 for women. However, these odds may increase depending on your exposure to risk factors, like a family history of multiple myeloma, excess body weight, and exposure to chemicals at work.
Military and civilian firefighters have been exposed to PFAS due to their regular use of AFFF. PFAS have shown impressive qualities at the peak of their popularity, having been used in kitchenware, turnout gear, and medical implants. They do not degrade easily, which unfortunately means they stay in the environment and human blood for a long time.
PFAS have been linked to an increased risk of blood cancers, and this association has been linked to their effects on the immune system and normal body processes. Once PFAS enter the bloodstream, they can decrease bone quality by interacting with nuclear receptors. Immune system dysfunction and reduced bone quality can drastically affect the risk of developing multiple myeloma.
The growing evidence of increased multiple myeloma risk caused by PFAS exposure is not limited to research studies. This association is also reflected in multiple myeloma incidence and mortality rates. In an updated review of meta-analysis studies on multiple myeloma, researchers found that firefighters are at 1.53 times greater risk of developing multiple myeloma and 1.28 times more likely to die from the condition than the general population. The potential causes of the elevated risks include different chemicals that firefighters are exposed to at work.
Military and civilian firefighters may be eligible for compensation if they have been diagnosed with multiple myeloma after AFFF exposure at work. If you believe you may qualify, contact our legal team to get a free evaluation of your employment (or military) records and medical documents at no cost. If you are eligible, you will be connected to an AFFF exposure attorney who can help with the filing process.