Firefighters risk their lives daily to protect communities from the dangers of fire. However, new research reveals that the equipment and substances used to combat blazes may be putting firefighters’ health and safety at even greater risk. Research has indicated a potential connection between non-Hodgkin lymphoma and firefighters’ exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl compounds (PFAS) in firefighting foam.
This article will explore the growing concern that the very tools and substances designed to protect firefighters might be endangering their health.
What is Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma?
Lymphocytes, a subset of white blood cells, cause a class of cancers known as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). It includes a wide range of subgroups with varying epidemiologies, etiology, cell markers, genetic variables, clinical presentation, and responsiveness to treatment.
Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is often classified into two main groups based on its clinical behavior: slow-growing (indolent) and fast-growing (aggressive).
Among adults, the three most prevalent B-cell lymphomas are follicular lymphoma, Burkitt lymphoma, and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. Additional subtypes include primary central nervous system lymphoma, marginal zone lymphoma, and mantle cell lymphoma. In the category of mature T-cell lymphomas, adult T-cell lymphoma and mycosis fungoides are the most commonly encountered.
The approach to treating NHL is highly individualized, considering factors such as the disease stage, grade, histological subtype, and the patient’s overall health status.
According to the National Institutes of Health, indolent forms of NHL typically manifest as gradually enlarging lymph nodes over an extended period. However, aggressive forms often present with systemic symptoms like unexplained weight loss and fever, which can rapidly progress and become life-threatening if left untreated.
Initially, approximately two-thirds of NHL patients notice swollen lymph nodes. Other less frequent presenting symptoms may include skin rashes, heightened sensitivity to insect bites, persistent fatigue, pruritus, fever, abdominal distension, and edema. As the disease progresses, about half of the patients develop secondary tumors in organs beyond the lymphatic system. At the time of diagnosis, 10-35% of cases already have primary tumors located outside the lymph nodes.
Firefighter Files Lawsuit Alleging AFFF Exposure Caused Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted to investigate the link between occupational exposure to carcinogens and the risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL).
Researchers analyzed observational epidemiological studies published between 2000 and 2020, focusing on case-control, cohort, and cross-sectional studies. Out of the numerous studies examined, 51 met the criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis, particularly those that reported odds ratios and confidence intervals.
The included studies assessed occupational exposures across various sectors, such as agriculture, the chemical industry, and manufacturing.
The meta-analysis revealed an overall odds ratio of 1.27, suggesting a 27% higher risk of NHL for individuals with occupational exposures, though the results varied significantly across studies.
The highest risks were associated with exposure to pesticides like malathion and carbaryl, and agricultural workers were found to be particularly vulnerable.
As per South Florida Carribean News, non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma has also been linked to exposure to (AFFF). The PFAS present in AFFF has been shown to cause abnormalities in the lymphatic system. These abnormalities can lead to the development of this type of cancer.
In light of these findings, individuals who have lost loved ones to NHL or other diseases linked to AFFF foam are pursuing legal action.
Lawsuits Involving Firefighting Foam Chemicals are Increasing
A study published in the medical journal Environmental Health Perspectives investigated a link between exposure to PFAS and an increased risk of testicular cancer. This study focused specifically on U.S. airmen. The study specifically looked at perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a type of PFAS.
As per VFW, the researchers analyzed blood samples from 530 airmen diagnosed with testicular cancer and compared them to 530 cancer-free airmen. They found that the airmen with cancer had significantly higher levels of PFOS in their blood compared to the control group.
Other factors linked to higher PFAS exposure include serving as a firefighter. Additionally, being stationed at a military base where PFAS was detected in the water supply increased exposure. These findings suggest occupational exposure to firefighting foam chemicals may increase cancer risk.
The study was the first to examine a potential connection between PFAS levels and testicular cancer, specifically in Air Force personnel. Testicular cancer is the most common cancer in young military servicemen and the general young male population.
According to TruLaw, over 1,600 gallons of AFFF contaminated with PFAS chemicals were accidentally released from a fire suppression system. This incident occurred at a former naval air base, which is now operating as an airport in Brunswick, Maine. The chemicals entered the local sewer and stormwater systems, causing significant environmental pollution.
Nearby ponds and nature preserves were affected, with foam reaching depths of four to eight feet in some cases. State authorities are still working on the cleanup.
Cleanup efforts by state regulators are ongoing. However, concerns linger about the long-term effects of PFAS chemicals, which are known to persist in the environment and pose risks to human health. The Brunswick spill can potentially contribute to the growing wave of litigation. This includes AFFF lawsuit navy cases, as individuals and communities seek compensation for alleged health and environmental damages.
Massachusetts Takes Action on PFAS in Firefighting Gear
Massachusetts will prohibit the use of PFAS chemicals in firefighter protective equipment starting in 2027 after Governor Maura Healey recently signed the new law. Manufacturing Dive says that beginning January 2025, manufacturers and sellers must disclose and label any PFAS gear.
The president of the Professional Fire Fighters of Massachusetts union expressed support for the legislation. He noted the significant toll that occupational cancer takes on firefighting personnel and their families. He called the law an essential step to address this public health crisis impacting fire services.
This legislation marks a milestone in the ongoing litigation around AFFF, which is routinely used by fire departments but often contains harmful PFAS chemicals. By phasing out these substances in firefighters’ protective clothing, Massachusetts is taking an important step to help reduce exposure risks for firefighting personnel. The new law could influence similar regulatory efforts in other states grappling with PFAS contamination issues.
FAQs
- Are there environmental factors that might cause non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma?
A: Research indicates that certain environmental exposures may increase the risk of developing non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL). Ongoing studies are investigating potential links between NHL and exposure to specific industrial chemicals, including benzene and various pesticides. While these connections are not yet conclusively proven, scientists continue to explore the relationship between environmental factors and NHL occurrence.
- What does the “3%” in 3% AFFF signify?
A: The percentage in AFFF concentrates refers to the mixture ratio with water. For 3% AFFF, the proper dilution is 3 parts concentrate to 97 parts water. This means that to create 100 units of firefighting foam solution, you would combine 3 units of AFFF concentrate with 97 units of water.
- What are the components of firefighting foam?
Firefighting foam is a specialized substance designed to combat fires, particularly those involving flammable liquids. It consists of three main elements: water, a foam concentrate, and air. When these components are combined in the correct proportions, they create a blanket of small, air-filled bubbles. This foam blanket is less dense than water, oil, or gasoline, allowing it to float on top of burning liquids and smother the fire.
Firefighters routinely risk their lives to protect communities. However, through no fault of their own, the equipment and substances used to combat fires may put these heroes’ health at risk. Their safety could be in even greater danger due to these hazards.
Evidence linking PFAS exposure from firefighting foam to cancers like non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma continues to mount. Manufacturers must be held accountable. Policies must be enacted to safeguard better those who safeguard us.