The uniform came off, but the fight didn't end. Thousands of veterans discovered the real battle began years after they served, against an enemy they were never warned about.
AFFF containing PFAS was introduced by the Department of Defense in the 1970s. During training and emergency response, these chemicals were released into the environment.
The accumulation of PFAS resulted in widespread groundwater contamination on military bases, leading to serious health consequences in the long run.
Veterans followed orders and used the resources they were given. They drank from base water supplies, worked in maintenance hangars, and lived in barracks - all while not knowing about the PFAS contamination. PFAS chemicals don't break down in the environment and accumulate in the body over time, causing health problems in the future.
The connection between PFAS exposure and bladder cancer isn't just mere speculation. Research shows a 45% higher bladder cancer risk for those exposed to these chemicals than the normal average. For veterans, this translates to real diagnoses, treatments, and questions about why their service made them sick. Bladder cancer strikes 3,200 veterans annually, according to the VA. Behind each number is a veteran dealing with a disease that may be linked to their service, fighting battles they never expected.
Chemical exposure doesn't get recognition like combat injuries. Veterans with cancer treatment often have questions about its cause and service connection. Adding medical bills to an already challenging situation makes things even worse.
Families have a difficult time understanding how military service caused cancer. There may be some friends who doubt the connection. The health of many veterans is at risk because of PFAS contamination.
There are many veterans who seek legal action not just for compensation, but also for accountability. They can use their service records as evidence to support claims for medical expenses, lost wages, and life impact damages.
This fight extends beyond individual cases. Veterans are pushing for recognition that their illnesses are connected to their service, demanding better protection for current military personnel, and seeking justice for decades of unknowing exposure.
Veterans suffering from PFAS-related bladder cancer deserve justice. Cancer treatment is expensive and often requires extended time away from work, creating financial hardship on top of health challenges. At Atraxia Law, we understand the struggles veterans face when dealing with service-connected illnesses.
With decades of experience in toxic exposure litigation, our team knows how to build strong cases that hold responsible parties accountable. To pursue your claim, we'll need your medical records confirming the bladder cancer diagnosis, proof of military service, and evidence of PFAS exposure at your duty station. Our team will guide you through every step of the process while you focus on your health and recovery.