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The PFAS Lawsuits – What You Need to Know

They are just about everywhere. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have found widespread use in various industries due to their unique characteristics. However, of late, these chemicals are garnering attention for their potential health impacts. Below, we delve into what PFAS are and provide an overview of the lawsuits manufacturers of products containing PFAS are facing.

What are PFAS?

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals. They were first introduced in the 1950s and have since found applications in a wide range of industries. This is due to their unique characteristics. These chemicals are resistant to heat, oil, stains, water and grease. They are able to withstand extremes in temperature. They also have non-stick properties.

Where Can PFAS Be Found?

Because of their unique properties, PFAS have been used in the manufacture of a wide range of products as well as in various industrial processes. Some common areas where PFAS have been applied include:

  • Non-stick cookware – Teflon and other similar coatings used to manufacture non-stick cookware contain PFAS.

  • Waterproof clothing and textiles – PFAS are to treat stain and water-resistant fabrics used to manufacture items such as raincoats.

  • Food packaging – PFAS are used to manufacture items such as grease-resistant paper, fast food wrappers and microwave popcorn bags.

  • Firefighting foams – this is the most infamous application of PFAS. These chemicals are used in the manufacture of firefighting foams that are primarily used on military bases, airports and naval vessels.

  • Personal care items – Many modern personal care products such as dental floss, shampoos and makeup are formulated with these chemicals.

The Problems with PFAS

While PFAS have many useful characteristics, they also have some drawbacks. One of the biggest issues with PFAS is their persistence. These chemicals do not break down easily. They can remain in the environment as well as in the human body for years as they are resistant to degradation. When PFAS enter the environment, water sources and the soil, they persist causing long term contamination. This in term results in widespread and long-term exposure to these chemicals.

Studies have linked exposure to PFAS to various types of cancers as well as other health conditions. Exposure to these chemicals can be through consuming contaminated food or water. You can also absorb these chemicals by inhaling contaminated particles in the air or soil.

Because of the widespread use of these chemicals in the manufacture of various items, it is estimated that upwards of 97 percent of Americans have been exposed to these chemicals. The risk of exposure and suffering adverse effects are higher for firefighters and military personnel as well as those working in industries using PFAS.

Health Conditions Related to PFAS Exposure

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a variety of health problems. While research is ongoing, some of the health conditions associated with PFAS exposure include:

  • Kidney cancer

  • High cholesterol levels

  • Thyroid disease

  • Thyroid cancer

  • Testicular cancer

  • Liver damage

  • Child development issues including delayed onset puberty and low birth weight

  • Effects on the immune system potentially reducing the body’s ability to fight infections

  • Hormonal disruptions

  • Reproductive issues

There are various conditions that are linked to PFAS exposure. However, for some, the link is less certain. These include:

  • Breast cancer

  • Preeclampsia

  • Pregnancy-related high blood pressure

  • Higher risk of miscarriage

  • Inflammatory bowel disease

  • Low sperm count

  • Reduced sperm motility

Categories of PFA Lawsuits

Thousands of PFA lawsuits have been filed and are expected to be filed across the country. These lawsuits fall into three main categories:

  • Personal injury claims – these are lawsuits filed by individuals seeking compensation for damages suffered as a result of exposure to PFAS. These lawsuits have been filed by those that have suffered illnesses (or whose relatives have been killed) as a result of PFAS exposure.

  • Contamination of drinking water supplies – these lawsuits have been filed mainly by municipalities, states and other government entities for compensation for cleanup, testing, monitoring and more.

  • Environmental contamination – these lawsuits are filed mainly by government agencies claiming compensation for cleanup, monitoring, testing and more of contaminated natural environments.

Can I Bring a PFAS Lawsuit?

If you have suffered a health condition or have a relative that died as a result of a health condition caused by exposure to PFAS, you may be eligible to file a lawsuit to recover compensation for damages you have suffered. You would however, need to get a medical diagnosis and have medical records that prove that your condition is believed to have been caused by PFAS exposure.

You should contact an experienced attorney to help you through the process of filing a lawsuit. While there are many other PFAS cases, proving your case and showing that you are entitled to compensation is vital. Working with an attorney will give you access to the knowledge and resources you need to strengthen your case. Contact us at 402-933-3345 to schedule your free consultation.