Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam, has recently been linked to an increased risk of various thyroid diseases. This connection is especially concerning for firefighters, who may be exposed to AFFF due to their professional duties.
As awareness of health risks linked to AFFF exposure grows, a rising number of military and civilian firefighters are initiating lawsuits. They are targeting over 36 manufacturers responsible for these firefighting foams. Companies like 3M, Tyco, and DuPont are among those being sued. The primary goal of these lawsuits is to compensate victims and prevent further harm from AFFF exposure.
AFFF Causes Thyroid Cancer and Hypothyroidism
Thyroid cancer is now established to be a result of PFAS exposure. A study identified a 56% increased risk of thyroid cancer linked to high levels of linear PFOS. This PFAS chemical is prevalent in firefighting foam. This new evidence strengthens the link between PFAS exposure and thyroid cancer.
Emerging research has also found a concerning link between AFFF exposure and an increased risk of thyroid disease. This is primarily due to the presence of per and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These ‘forever chemicals’ disrupt the thyroid hormone system, which regulates metabolism, fertility, cardiovascular health, and fetal neurodevelopment. This disruption can also cause thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism, Graves’ disease, and Hashimoto’s disease.
The Effect of Ongoing Research on the AFFF Lawsuit
Due to recent developments, the number of cases in the AFFF firefighting foam lawsuit has increased to over 6,000. Besides thyroid cancer, the steering committee for the plaintiffs in the AFFF lawsuit is now also focused on liver cancer. Starting March 20, 2024, the U.S. District Court for the District of South Carolina plans to incorporate these cancer types. This is part of its ongoing bellwether trials process.
Ongoing research aims to identify the precise mechanisms that connect exposure to AFFF with different health conditions. The available data emphasizes how urgent it is to address these health risks. According to TorHoerman Law, comprehending the effects of exposure to PFAS has become essential to compensation claims for victims.
Settlements in the AFFF Lawsuit
Although no settlements have been reached yet in the AFFF litigation, attorneys suggest that AFFF lawsuit settlement amounts could vary. Depending on various factors, these amounts might range from $40,000 to $300,000 or more. Top-tier plaintiffs may receive settlement amounts as high as $500,000.
Factors Affecting the Settlement Amounts of AFFF Lawsuits
The following important factors can have a substantial impact on the settlement amounts in AFFF lawsuit cases:
- Severity of injury: The degree of emotional and physical harm is a major factor in deciding the settlement amount.
- Financial losses: Another significant consideration is the injury’s financial impact, which includes medical expenses and lost wages.
- Proof of AFFF exposure: The quality of the proof attributing the victim’s illness to AFFF exposure is critical. This includes the victim’s thorough history of AFFF exposure as well as scientific studies. It should prove the connection between AFFF and AFFF-caused cancer.
- Negligence and liability of AFFF manufacturers: The settlement amount is also influenced by the extent to which AFFF manufacturers may be held accountable for the injuries.
- Examination of analogous cases: Settlement sums from analogous cases involving AFFF exposure may provide benchmarks. These can help estimate compensation in new cases.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why are thyroid cancer lawsuits linked to AFFF foam?
Thyroid cancer lawsuits linked to AFFF firefighting foam are based on the hazardous effects of PFAS chemicals found in the foam. Exposure to these chemicals can disrupt thyroid hormone functions, potentially leading to various thyroid diseases including cancer. The disruption occurs because PFAS chemicals can accumulate in thyroid cells, inhibiting essential enzymes.
2. What is the average settlement for an AFFF lawsuit?
Expert lawyers assume that settlement amounts for AFFF lawsuits may range between $40,000 and $500,000 or more. This would be based on the case strength and other individual parameters.
3. What are the factors that influence the AFFF lawsuit settlement amount?
The severity of the thyroid dysfunction and the victim’s age are taken into account when determining compensation in these cases. Further, the victim’s detailed history of exposure to AFFF is also considered.
4. What can victims of hypothyroidism due to AFFF exposure expect in settlement amounts?
Victims of hypothyroidism due to AFFF exposure can expect settlement amounts generally ranging from $300,000 to $450,000. This range considers factors like the condition’s severity and each case’s specific details. It also includes exposure extent and the quality of legal representation.
The link between AFFF exposure and thyroid disease emergence demands scrutiny in legal and medical sectors. With a growing body of evidence linking PFAS to thyroid hormone disruption, individuals, especially those with extensive AFFF use, face a complex situation. They are now navigating potential compensation claims due to these risks.
