FREE Case Review (866) 588-0600

Can PFAS Cause Kidney Cancer?

Increased rates of kidney cancer have been diagnosed in individuals with elevated levels of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, also known as PFAS “forever chemicals,” in their blood.
Awards & recognition
C.L. Mike Schmidt Published by C.L. Mike Schmidt
Free Confidential Lawsuit Review
If you or a loved one was injured, you should contact our lawyers immediately. You may be entitled to compensation by filing a lawsuit and we can help. Please click the button below for a Free Case Evaluation or call us toll-free 24 hrs/day by dialing (866) 588-0600.

Start My Free Case Review

PFAS Exposure Kidney Cancer Study

To investigate the link between PFAS exposure and kidney cancer, researchers at the National Cancer Institute conducted a study [1] that looked at the risk of renal cell carcinoma (RCC, the most common form of kidney cancer) in relation to levels of PFOA and 7 other PFAS within the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian (PLCO) Cancer Screening Trial, a large U.S. population-based cohort.

The cohort included 324 RCC cases and 324 individually matched controls. The findings suggested a heightened risk of kidney cancer associated with increasing PFOA exposure. The researchers concluded that PFOA is a renal carcinogen, and the findings demonstrated that exposures comparable to those observed in the general population are linked to an increased risk for kidney cancer development.

Related Article: PFAS Lawsuit Update

What is Kidney Cancer?

Kidney cancer is a disease characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in a person’s kidney tissue. In time, these cells form a mass called a tumor. Kidney cancer begins when something triggers a change in the cells of the kidney, and they divide out of control.

Kidney Cancer Symptoms

In its early stages, kidney cancer usually doesn’t cause any signs or symptoms. Over time, the following symptoms may develop:

  • Blood in your urine, which may appear pink, red or cola-colored
  • Pain in your back or side that doesn’t go away
  • Loss of appetite
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Tiredness
  • Fever

Treatment

Kidney cancer is typically treated with a combination of surgery, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Radiation therapy and chemotherapy are also used in some cases. People with kidney cancer that has spread (metastatic cancer) often receive multiple lines of therapy.

What Other Chemicals Have Been Linked to Kidney Disease?

In addition to PFAS, other chemicals that have been associated with kidney cancer include trichloroethylene (TCE), benzene, benzidine, cadmium, herbicides, and vinyl chloride.

Related Articles:

See all related product liability lawsuits our lawyers covered so far.

Choose our lawyers

Have you or a loved one been unreasonably injured by a dangerous or defective consumer product?

FAQs

1. What Are the Symptoms of Kidney Cancer That Might Be Linked to PFAS Exposure?

Symptoms include blood in urine, lower back pain on one side, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and persistent fever, which may indicate kidney cancer potentially linked to PFAS exposure.

2. Can PFAS Exposure Cause Other Types of Cancer or Health Issues?

Yes, PFAS exposure is linked to other cancers, such as testicular cancer, and various health issues, including liver damage, immune system effects, thyroid disease, and developmental problems.

3. What Steps Can I Take to Reduce My Exposure to PFAS?

Reduce exposure by using water filters certified to remove PFAS, avoiding products with PFAS, and checking local water quality reports for contamination levels.

4. Are There Legal Actions Available for Individuals Diagnosed With Kidney Cancer Due to PFAS?

Yes, individuals diagnosed with kidney cancer due to PFAS exposure can pursue legal action against manufacturers or responsible parties for compensation and to hold them accountable.

Get a Free Lawsuit Evaluation With Our Lawyers

The Product Liability Litigation Group at Schmidt & Clark, LLP law firm is an experienced team of trial lawyers focusing on plaintiffs’ representation in lawsuits. We are handling individual litigation nationwide and currently accepting new legal challenges in all 50 states.

If you or a loved one was injured by PFAS contamination, you should contact our law firm immediately for a free case evaluation. You may be entitled to a settlement by filing a suit and we can help.

Free Confidential Case Evaluation

Verified 100% Secure SiteTo contact us for a free review of your potential case, please fill out the form below or call us toll free 24 hrs/day by dialing: (866) 588-0600.