What Cancers are Linked to PFAS?

Is PFAS Cancer-Causing?

PFAS, short for “per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances,” has recently been linked to adverse health effects including altered metabolism and fertility, birth defects, obesity, diabetes, and cancer.

Elevated body levels of the chemical PFOA, one type of PFAS chemical, have been associated with an increased risk for the development of the following types of cancer:

• Kidney Cancer
• Testicular Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Endometrial Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Thyroid Cancer
• Childhood Leukemia

Related Article: PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Update

How Can PFAS Cause Cancer?

A March 2020 study published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health tried to establish possible mechanisms underlying the link between PFAS and cancer [1].

The study’s authors summarized the existing evidence about PFAS substances, which can act like previously known cancer-causing chemicals.

The mechanisms include different ways PFAS can disrupt biological activity, such as by changing DNA, weakening the immune system, inducing chronic inflammation, causing cells to proliferate, or altering normal communication between cells.

The researchers looked for evidence of 10 such carcinogenic (cancer-causing) traits in animal, cell, and human studies of roughly two dozen PFAS chemicals.

“We found that every single one of them exhibited at least one of the key characteristics” of carcinogens.- Alexis Temkin, Senior Toxicologist at the Environmental Working Group (EWG), collaborated with researchers from Indiana University on the study.

What Other Health Problems Can PFAS Cause?

In addition to cancer, PFAS may lead to the following adverse health effects in some people:

• Increased cholesterol levels
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Decreases in infant birth weights
• Decreased vaccine response in children
• Increased risk of high blood pressure or preeclampsia in pregnant women

How Does PFAS Contamination Occur?

PFAS contamination has been found to occur in drinking water, food, indoor dust, certain consumer products, and workplaces.

Most exposures in the general public occur through drinking contaminated water or eating food that contains PFAS.

Although some types of PFAS are no longer used, many products, including food packaging materials, may still contain PFAS.

Can I Test Myself for PFAS?

Several labs in North America currently offer PFAS blood testing: AXYS Analytical, EmpowerDX, and Eurofins. AXYS and Eurofins measure PFAS in blood serum, and EmpowerDX offers a home finger-prick test.

Related Articles:

• Can PFAS Be Removed From the Body?
• What Household Products Contain PFAS?

FAQs

1. How can I determine if I have been exposed to PFAS?

To determine if you have been exposed to PFAS, check if your community has reported water contamination through the EPA’s water quality reports or EWG’s contamination map. Blood tests can measure PFAS levels in your body, though they’re not routinely available through standard medical care. Consider your history with potential exposure sources like firefighting foam, industrial work, or residence near manufacturing facilities or military bases.

2. What steps can I take to reduce my exposure to PFAS?

To reduce PFAS exposure, install a certified water filtration system (activated carbon or reverse osmosis) if your water is contaminated. Avoid non-stick cookware, especially if scratched, and choose PFAS-free alternatives. Check labels for phrases like “PFAS-free” or “fluorine-free” when purchasing stain-resistant products, waterproof items, and food packaging. Limit consumption of fast food and microwave popcorn, which may contain PFAS in their packaging.

3. Who can file a lawsuit related to PFAS exposure and cancer?

Individuals diagnosed with cancers linked to PFAS (particularly kidney, testicular, and ovarian cancer) after significant exposure through contaminated water, occupational contact, or regular use of PFAS-containing products may qualify for a lawsuit. Firefighters exposed to AFFF foam, residents near military bases or chemical plants, and those with documented high blood PFAS levels have the strongest cases. Family members may file wrongful death claims for deceased loved ones.

4. How much compensation might I receive from a PFAS lawsuit?

Compensation in PFAS lawsuits varies widely based on illness severity, exposure duration, and case strength. Individual cancer cases may settle for $100,000 to several million dollars, with larger amounts for permanent disability or wrongful death. Class action settlements for property damage or medical monitoring typically provide smaller individual payments but cover more people. Community-wide settlements with manufacturers have reached billions of dollars for water remediation.

5. Can I join a class action lawsuit for PFAS contamination?

Yes, you may be eligible to join a PFAS class action lawsuit if you live in an affected community with contaminated water or own property that has decreased in value due to contamination. Class actions are typically focused on property damage, water remediation costs, or medical monitoring rather than personal injuries. For serious health conditions like cancer, individual lawsuits often provide better compensation than class actions.

6. How long do PFAS lawsuits typically take to resolve?

PFAS lawsuits typically take 2-5 years to resolve due to their scientific complexity and the evolving nature of PFAS litigation. Individual cases may settle faster if the connection between exposure and illness is well-established. Class actions and multi-district litigation involving many plaintiffs generally take longer. The timeline depends on factors including jurisdiction, evidence strength, and whether the case settles or proceeds to trial.

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

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 that focus on the representation of plaintiffs 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.

Reference:

1. https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/5/1668