While testicular cancer is rare in the general population, civilian and military firefighters who used the fire suppressant AFFF are twice as likely to develop this disease. This is because AFFF contains PFAS, a group of highly toxic and carcinogenic substances. With each use, firefighters are inevitably exposed to these dangerous chemicals, even if they wear protective gear. Testicular cancer is the fifth most common cancer in civilian and military firefighters. Out of the 9,000 substances making up the PFAS group, PFOA was found to have the strongest connection with testicular cancer.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the Environmental Protection Agency have identified possible associations of certain PFAS with various cancers, including testicular cancer. A study found that young men exposed to high PFAS concentrations over a long time experienced several different problems with their reproductive systems, such as lower testosterone activity resulting in smaller genitalia and lower sperm counts. These changes might precede the onset of testicular cancer.
When it is the result of AFFF exposure, testicular cancer usually takes about 15 years to develop. If you are a civilian or military firefighter who used AFFF, you should closely monitor your health and look out for the following symptoms, as they might indicate testicular cancer:
The fire suppressant AFFF, whose formula was devised by the U.S. Navy and the 3M company in 1966, can sometimes contain 98% PFAS, making it very harmful to the health of firefighters who use it. To make matters worse, even the turnout gear civilian and military firefighters wear contains these chemicals to offer protection against extreme heat and fire. Over time, as the gear wears out, it releases PFAS, which can easily be inhaled by firefighters. If you struggle with testicular cancer as a firefighter due to AFFF exposure, we advise you to contact us, as you might be entitled to financial compensation for your unjust suffering.
Our expert team has the necessary experience, resources, and knowledge to help you find out whether you are eligible to file a claim for AFFF exposure. The process is simple, as you will only have to send us your employment or military records and your medical records so we can evaluate your case. Eligible firefighters will be immediately put in touch with a specialized attorney so they can have their claims filed as soon as possible and obtain financial compensation for their physical and emotional distress.