Because of their unique abilities to repel water, oil, and stain, PFOS (perfluorooctane sulfonate) became an instant hit. They can be found nearly everywhere, from non-stick cooking ware to firefighting foams.
PFOS, in particular, was an essential ingredient in manufacturing aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), one of the most effective types of firefighting foams.
PFOS belongs to a class of over 15,000 chemical compounds collectively known as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, or simply PFAS. In 2002, however, regulators phased out the production and application of PFOS due to rising environmental and health concerns, including the development of liver cancer.
Liver cancer claims the lives of approximately 30,000 Americans every year, making it one of the deadliest forms of cancer. It is often associated with risk factors such as excessive consumption of liquor, smoking, and heredity, but recent studies revealed that exposure to certain PFAS, particularly PFOS, may also be a contributing factor.
The Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California conducted a groundbreaking study that showed the disturbing connection between PFOS exposure and increased risk of getting non-viral hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common type of liver cancer. This nested case-control study examined serum samples from 100 individuals and discovered that those with higher concentrations of PFOS in their blood are 4.5 times more likely to get HCC.
An earlier study from the journal Environmental Health Perspectives also suggests a link between exposure to three PFAS types, including PFOS, and higher chances of developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can further lead to the development of liver cancer.
Previously, there had been animal studies that linked elevated risk of liver tumors to PFOS exposure. In 2012, a group of researchers, which also included those working with 3M -Minnesota Mining and Manufacturing Company, one of the largest producers of PFAS, conducted an experiment on Sprague Dawley rats to determine how PFOS exposure affects the liver. The research took at least two years, and scientists found out that rats administered the highest PFOS dose had a statistically significant increase in liver tumors.
Regulators, locally and globally, have since recognized the harmful effects of PFOS on human health. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) even reported that PFOS and PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid) can potentially cause cancer, including liver cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer, the research arm of the World Health Organization (WHO), dedicated to finding out the causes of cancer and developing strategies for its prevention and control, also listed PFOS under the list of substances 'possibly carcinogenic to humans.'
The most common symptoms of liver cancer include:
The prognosis for patients with liver cancer depends on several factors, including their overall health condition, the stage of the cancer, and the response to treatment, but when detected early and treated promptly, survival rates may improve. This is why individuals diagnosed with liver cancer, and who may have been exposed to PFAS, should seek help immediately.
If you or someone you know has been diagnosed with liver cancer and has a history of PFAS exposure at contaminated military sites, Atraxia Law can assist you. Our team of experts can help you determine your eligibility to file for PFAS exposure claims. To get started, all you have to do is share your military and medical records.
Family members may also file as long as they can present evidence of their stay (proof of residence). Once you qualify, we will connect you right away with a specialized attorney who can give you expert guidance every step of the way.