The American Cancer Society estimates that, similar to previous years, in 2023, approximately 2,800 new cases of male breast cancer will be diagnosed and over 500 men will die from this disease. While the main cause of breast cancer is having the BRCA1, BRCA2, CHEK2 or PALB gene mutation, a more obscure risk factor for this disease is toxic exposure, which occurs frequently among civilian and military firefighters. Because they use the dangerous fire suppressant AFFF regularly, which contains between 50% and 98% PFAS, a group of toxic and carcinogenic substances, exposure is inevitable even if they wear protective gear. Exposure to PFAS was found to promote the growth and proliferation of breast cancer cells.
Unfortunately, a rising number of men who work as firefighters are at risk of developing breast cancer as a consequence of frequent PFAS exposure. As one of the most known chemicals from the PFAS group, PFOA has the strongest association with breast cancer. Moreover, six studies offered data suitable for the assessment of PFHxS, which also had a positive correlation with breast cancer in individuals exposed to it. If you are or were a civilian or military firefighter and believe you have breast cancer, these are the symptoms that might indicate it:
According to a study by the Environmental Working Group, the existence of these hazardous chemicals in the blood may increase breast cancer risk. Even at low doses, PFAS exposure can change the structure and growth of mammary glands. In animal studies, PFOA was found to cause significant changes and multiple abnormalities in the mammary glands of lactating mice frequently exposed to the chemical. It is known that altered timing of mammary gland development can increase the risk of breast cancer. If you are or were a civilian or military firefighter and now struggle with breast cancer, the culprit behind your disease might be AFFF exposure, so do not hesitate to contact us to have your case evaluated, as you might be entitled to compensation.
With over 35 years of experience in assessing toxic exposure claims, Atraxia Law will gladly help you find out if you are eligible to file a claim for AFFF exposure as a civilian or military firefighter. The process is simple and will require minimal involvement from you, as we understand that people with cancer are often in a lot of physical and emotional pain. We will only need your employment or military records and your medical records to review your case. If we determine that you are eligible, we will immediately put you in touch with a specialized attorney so you can have your claim filed as soon as possible.