Exposed to AFFF? Beware of These Severe Health Conditions That Can Affect Firefighters
Simone Reed 
Firefighting is a noble profession that often exposes individuals to various risks, including those associated with toxic substances. Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) is one of these materials that has drawn attention because of how well it puts out fires. However, exposure to AFFF is not without consequences.
In recent years, there have been worries about the possible health consequences of exposure to aqueous film-forming foam. This article aims to shed light on the severe health conditions individuals exposed to AFFF may face.
Understanding AFFF
A firefighting solution called AFFF is used to put out flames caused by combustible liquids, including oil, gasoline, and jet fuel. It does this by producing a coating on the fuel’s surface, stopping the oxygen supply, and putting out the flames.
Aqueous film-forming foam comprises various compounds, including per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). PFAS’s effectiveness in combating fires, environmental durability, and possible health hazards are well-known.
Health Risks Associated with AFFF Exposure
Aqueous film-forming foam contains per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which have raised concerns regarding potential health risks associated with exposure. Some of the health risks linked to aqueous film-forming foam exposure include:
Cancer
Cancer may be the most concerning health risk associated with aqueous film-forming foam exposure. Research has connected PFAS chemicals contained in AFFF to a variety of cancers, including testicular, kidney, bladder, prostate, and breast cancer.
Prolonged exposure to PFAS increases the risk of developing these cancers, posing a significant threat to firefighters and military professionals. For instance, a Kaiser Family Foundation article mentions a federal study that proved the direct connection between PFAS and testicular cancer. The article also covers the story of Gary Flook, who served in the Air Force as a firefighter.
Gary was diagnosed with testicular cancer at the age of 45 and had to undergo an orchiectomy and chemotherapy. He has consequently launched an aqueous film-forming foam foam lawsuit against the producers of these items. If you have been diagnosed with cancer after exposure, you can also file an AFFF foam lawsuit to seek compensation.
According to TruLaw, many exposed individuals have filed lawsuits that have now been consolidated into multidistrict litigation (MDL). The latest Judicial Panel on Multidistrict Litigation (JPML) reports show that, as of April 2024, there were 8,061 pending lawsuits.
Reproductive Issues
Exposure to AFFF has also been linked to reproductive problems, including reduced fertility, low birth weight, and developmental issues in newborns. PFAS compounds can build up in the body over time, harming both men’s and women’s hormonal balance and reproductive health.
As pointed out by a ScienceDirect study, these chemicals can affect reproductive tissues directly or indirectly through endocrine disruptors. They may also play a part in breast and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis function.
Liver Damage
PFAS compounds have been shown to cause liver damage and dysfunction. Long-term exposure to aqueous film-forming foam can lead to elevated liver enzymes, fatty liver disease, and even liver cancer. The liver plays a crucial role in detoxification, and damage to this organ can have serious health consequences.
A National Institutes of Health (NIH) article says that perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) are commonly linked with liver damage. These are also the very PFAS chemicals found in aqueous film-forming foam composition. The article states that a meta-review of numerous studies in people and rodents has confirmed the link between PFAS and liver damage.
Immune System Dysfunction
Studies show that exposure to PFAS chemicals weakens the immune system, making people more susceptible to infections and autoimmune illnesses. PFAS compounds can disrupt the normal functioning of immune cells, compromising the body’s ability to defend against pathogens and maintain overall health.
A PubMed Central study investigated the impact of contaminated drinking water exposure on immune system biomarkers. It concluded that increased PFAS concentration in blood levels can alter inflammatory profiles. Moreover, it stated that PFAS can impair the body’s response to vaccination by affecting immunity.
Neurological Disorders
Emerging research suggests a relationship between aqueous film-forming foam exposure and neurological illnesses, including Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. PFAS chemicals can cross the blood-brain barrier, causing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. This may contribute to the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
This was also confirmed by an NCBI study that found a good enough connection between PFAS exposure and neurological disorders. It also stated that the connection is strongest development exposure or among sensitive populations. The impact becomes stronger in those who are already facing some neurological condition.
Thyroid Disorders
PFAS compounds have been demonstrated to interfere with thyroid function, resulting in hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, energy production, and hormone balance, and any disruption in its function can have widespread health effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Does AFFF Affect Firefighters?
Firefighters may be exposed to aqueous film-forming foam by eating, making skin contact, or inhaling, among other means. It is frequently sprayed directly onto the fire during firefighting operations, producing aerosols that firefighters may breathe in. Furthermore, skin contact may occur when handling and applying AFFF, resulting in PFAS dermal absorption. Accidental ingestion of aqueous film-forming foam is possible, especially if firefighters ingest tainted water or foam residues.
Are AFFF Formulas All the Same Risk?
Not every aqueous film-forming foam formulation contains the same amount of PFAS or presents the same level of harm to people’s health.
As worries about the toxicity of conventional aqueous film-forming foam mount, several producers have created low-PFAS or PFAS-free formulations. To reduce the health concerns associated with AFFF exposure, fire departments and emergency responders are urged to prioritize utilizing PFAS-free firefighting foams.
What Safety Measures May Firefighters Use to Reduce Their Exposure to AFFF?
To reduce skin contact and inhalation of AFFF, wear the appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and respiratory protection. Use containment and recovery systems to avoid contaminating the environment and reduce exposure during training exercises and emergency reactions.
After firefighting operations, decontamination measures should be carried out to eliminate aqueous film-forming foam residues from PPE, equipment, and vehicles. To ensure the health and safety of firefighters and the community, promote using PFAS-free firefighting foams and safer substitutes for AFFF.
What Consequences Does Exposure to AFFF Have on One’s Health Over Time?
Long-term exposure to PFAS has been linked to several harmful health outcomes, including organ damage, cancer, and reproductive problems. Proactive steps to reduce aqueous film-forming foam exposure and safeguard firefighter health are crucial to safeguard firefighters.
To conclude, exposure to AFFF poses significant health risks due to PFAS chemicals. They have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues, liver damage, immune system dysfunction, neurological disorders, and thyroid disorders.
Firefighters and other individuals exposed to aqueous film-forming foam should take precautionary measures to minimize their risk of adverse health effects. They should wear appropriate PPE, properly handle and dispose of the foam, and receive adequate training and education.
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Steven Schuster