For the brave men and women who serve our country, the last thing they should have to worry about is the safety of the water they drink and the air they breathe on their own bases. Unfortunately, the widespread use of PFAS-containing products has exposed service members, their families, and civilian employees to harmful health effects. If you lived or worked on a military base and are now facing health issues that may be linked to PFAS exposure, you deserve justice—and you may be eligible for a lawsuit.
Common Sources of PFAS on Military Bases
Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of manufactured chemicals that have been widely used in many products for decades. PFAS are prized for their water and oil-repellent properties, heat resistance, and ability to reduce friction, but they do not break down naturally in the environment or your body. As a result, they can lead to serious health complications.
On military bases, these harmful chemicals have silently contaminated soil, groundwater, and drinking water systems, often without personnel knowing about the exposure or its potential health consequences. A major source of PFAS contamination is aqueous film forming foam (AFFF), a firefighting foam developed in the 1960s by the U.S. military and the 3M company. The military has used AFFF extensively in training exercises and emergency responses for decades.
When deployed, this foam releases PFAS into the environment, where it infiltrates water systems and remains indefinitely. The chemicals then make their way into groundwater, contaminating drinking water supplies on bases and putting service members, families, and nearby communities at risk.
Health Problems Associated with PFAS Exposure
Researchers have found strong connections between PFAS exposure and several serious health conditions. These include:
- Thyroid disease and cancer
- Elevated cholesterol levels
- Liver damage
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Child development issues
As research continues, scientists are discovering additional complications that may be linked to these chemicals. Health risks of PFAS exposure may include breast cancer, increased risk of miscarriage, reduced fertility, inflammatory bowel disease, and pregnancy complications like preeclampsia.
Legal Options for Military Personnel Harmed by PFAS
If you are a veteran, active-duty service member, or military family member affected by PFAS exposure, you deserve justice. Manufacturers who created and sold PFAS-containing products had a duty to ensure their safety. Unfortunately, many companies knew about potential health risks for decades but failed to warn the military or the public.
PFAS exposure lawsuits allow you to seek compensation for the harm that you suffered due to the contamination, such as medical expenses and pain and suffering. You may qualify for a claim if you:
- Served or lived on a contaminated military base
- Were exposed to PFAS, typically proven through water testing or base records
- Developed one of the health conditions scientifically linked to PFAS, such as kidney cancer, testicular cancer, or thyroid disease, after your exposure
An attorney can help determine whether you are eligible and begin building your case for fair and full compensation.
Speak with a PFAS Exposure Lawsuit Attorney Today
Military service members who were exposed to PFAS deserve justice. Estey & Bomberger, LLP is not afraid to stand up to government contractors, manufacturers, and other entities responsible for toxic exposure on military bases. Our firm will take the time to hear your story and aggressively pursue the justice and compensation you are owed. Contact us at (800) 260-7197 to speak with PFAS lawsuit attorneys who will fight for you.