Firefighting Foam and You: PFAS Exposure and VA Claims

For decades, a firefighting agent called Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) was a mainstay at military bases across the U.S.  However, recent concerns have surfaced regarding the health risks linked to the chemicals in AFFF.

This blog post aims to guide veterans who might have been exposed to AFFF during their service. We’ll explore ways to determine potential exposure. We will also provide you with vital information regarding how to navigate the VA claims process.

Was Your Base on the AFFF Firefighting Map?

Since the 1960s, AFFF has been a firefighter’s trusted weapon against flames on numerous military installations. Once hailed as a lifesaver, AFFF is now raising concerns due to the presence of perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) chemicals. These chemicals have been linked to various health problems.

However, the military used AFFF without fully disclosing potential health risks. Current efforts are focused on identifying veterans who may have been exposed to this firefighting foam. Thankfully, resources are available to help veterans determine if their military bases utilized AFFF.

Scope of AFFF Footprint: Resources for Veterans

Several tools can shed light on your potential AFFF exposure. The Department of Defense (DoD) offers a database listing military bases where AFFF use has been confirmed. This resource provides details on the specific situations and levels of PFAS exposure that occurred at each location. Veterans can find this database and search by their base of service to see if it’s included.

Photo by Dominik Sostmann on Unsplash

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) also provides another useful tool: an interactive map for exploring potential AFFF exposure risks. This online resource depicts PFAS contamination across the United States.  You can assess the potential for exposure in the locations where you served using this map.

Short-Term Exposure and Beyond

Even veterans with brief service at bases documented to have used AFFF may be at risk. The length of exposure is a factor in evaluating potential health effects.

Finding Your Records

While these resources are valuable, they have limitations.  Not all bases that used AFFF might be listed.  For the most definitive confirmation of exposure, your best bet is to obtain your complete military service records.  A thorough review can provide a clearer picture.

Veteran advocacy organizations can help decipher your service records and assess your exposure risks. Additionally, they can offer insights into the potential health effects of AFFF exposure and guide you through your claims.

Understanding the Health Effects of PFAS Exposure

Veterans who served near AFFF sources must comprehend the potential health risks posed by PFAS contaminants.  These hazardous compounds are a growing concern. Veterans who may have been exposed deserve clear information on the potential consequences.

Health Concerns Linked to PFAS

Studies have begun to reveal a link between PFAS exposure and a range of serious health issues, including:

Increased Risk of Certain Cancers: TruLaw suggests a connection between PFAS exposure and cancers such as colon, breast, and pancreatic cancer.

Weakened Immune System: Exposure to PFAS may lead to a compromised immune system, reducing the body’s response to vaccinations and increasing the risk of infections.

Thyroid Problems: Exposure to PFAS has been associated with thyroid conditions such as hypothyroidism and thyroid disease.

Pregnancy Complications: Preeclampsia and gestational hypertension are two pregnancy complications linked to PFAS exposure.

Digestive Issues: Ulcerative colitis, a chronic inflammatory bowel disease, may be associated with PFAS exposure.

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) currently requires veterans to establish a direct connection between their health conditions and PFAS exposure, rather than automatically assuming a link.

Moreover, you can also resort to legal compensation by filing an AFFF lawsuit with the help of a personal injury attorney.

You will need to present medical records attesting to your conditions to make a compelling argument. The records should establish a potential association with their service time. This may involve collaboration with experienced medical professionals who can provide evidence supporting the connection between their condition and PFAS exposure.

Additionally, working with claims specialists can be instrumental in navigating the VA claims process effectively.

Navigating the Maze of VA Claims: What is Needed?

Winning a VA claim for health problems potentially linked to AFFF exposure can feel like running a marathon. While a diagnosed health condition is a major hurdle to be crossed, it’s just the first step on the path. Here’s a breakdown to help you navigate the complexities:

From Correlation to Causation: Bridging the Evidence Gap

AFFF has been found to cause severe health issues. Even though such studies show a possible relationship, they don’t prove that AFFF caused the health problem in your specific case. Veterans Affairs (VA) requires solid evidence of a direct cause-and-effect connection between AFFF exposure and your diagnosed condition.

Building a Strong Case: Medical Proof and Service Records

For your VA claim, you will need watertight evidence.

Medical records: These documents should detail your diagnosis, relevant medical history, and any specialist reports that hint at a possible connection to AFFF exposure.

Military service records: These act as another crucial piece of evidence. They can prove that you served at a location where AFFF use was documented during your time there.

These pieces of evidence help prove the opportunity for exposure—you were in the right place at the right time (or unfortunately, the wrong place at the wrong time).

Not a One-Size-Fits-All Situation: Individuality Matters

The way that the human body responds to environmental stimuli varies. A person’s genetic makeup, general health, and co-occurring medical disorders are some of the factors that can affect how PFAS exposure presents itself.

Certain diseases, such as some types of cancer, can have several underlying causes. The VA recognizes this intricacy. It conducts a thorough assessment of all relevant data to determine whether AFFF exposure was the primary factor contributing to the veteran’s health problem.

Acquiring knowledge of these components empowers you to confidently approach the VA claims process. By staying informed about the potential health effects of PFAS exposure and understanding the VA claims process, veterans can take proactive steps to protect their health and well-being.

How Can You Seek VA Benefits

For veterans who served around AFFF firefighting foam, securing VA disability benefits can feel like an uphill battle. Here’s a roadmap to help you navigate the process:

The Proof is in the Rating

The VA assigns disability ratings based on your illness severity. These ratings range from 0% (no disability) to 100% (total disability) and determine your monthly VA compensation. A 10% rating or higher is key to unlocking those benefits.

A Simpler Path Forward

Recently, the VA made things simpler by accepting direct AFFF contact as evidence of exposure. This could significantly speed up claim approvals for veterans.

Getting Started

Kick off your application by contacting the VA to explore your claim options. Veteran organizations can be invaluable allies —they can guide you in gathering the necessary evidence. Additionally, stay tuned to updates from advocacy groups; new legislation might expand access to AFFF-related benefits.

Building Your Support System

Veteran support groups are a haven for connecting with others impacted by AFFF. These groups offer valuable resources—from healthcare professionals to benefits specialists and even legal guidance.

Online forums also provide a platform for veterans to share their experiences and exchange tips on navigating the complexities of healthcare and disability claims. Remember, you’re not alone in this fight.

To conclude, the sacrifices you made during your service deserve recognition. By understanding the claims process, gathering evidence to support your case, and leveraging the available support systems, you’re well on your way to securing the benefits you deserve.