PFAS, which stands for per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances, are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been widely used in various industries and consumer products for decades. These forever chemicals are extraordinarily persistent in the environment and the human body, raising serious questions about their long-term impact on our health. There are multiple health risks associated with PFAS exposure, including links to certain cancers, immune system dysfunction, and developmental issues.
Understanding PFAS, or “Forever Chemicals”
PFAS are artificial compounds that have very strong carbon-fluorine bonds that make them extremely resistant to breaking down—hence the nickname “forever chemicals.” This durability made PFAS very attractive for industrial applications. However, these substances can easily accumulate in the environment and the bodies of humans and animals over time. This makes PFAS particularly dangerous.
Once these chemicals enter your body, they can remain there for years, potentially decades. Research has linked PFAS exposure to serious health conditions, including:
- Kidney and testicular cancer
- Thyroid disease
- Fertility problems
- Liver damage
- Child development issues
- Cholesterol increases
Common Sources of PFAS Contamination
PFAS contamination is alarmingly widespread. You may be exposed to these chemicals through contaminated drinking water, particularly if you live near industrial facilities, military bases, or firefighting training areas. Many consumer products also contain PFAS, including non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, water-repellent clothing, and some food packaging materials.
Firefighting foam—especially the type used at airports and military installations—contains high concentrations of PFAS that can contaminate groundwater. Even personal care products like certain shampoos, dental floss, and cosmetics may contain these chemicals. It is entirely possible to experience PFAS exposure from multiple sources at the same time.
Liability for PFAS-Related Health Complications
Suffering complications from PFAS exposure can be a scary and disorienting experience. Victims deserve justice for the harm these chemicals have caused to their health. If you believe your conditions were caused by PFAS, you may have grounds for a lawsuit.
Depending on the source of the exposure, multiple parties may be liable:
- Manufacturers who produced PFAS despite evidence of their dangers
- Companies that used PFAS in their products without adequate warnings
- Property owners who allowed PFAS contamination to spread to neighboring communities
- Government entities that improperly disposed of PFAS-containing materials
- Employers who exposed workers to PFAS without proper protection
Unlike many other toxins, PFAS exposure often occurs at low levels over extended periods. This can make it difficult to establish a clear connection between these chemicals and health problems. This is where an attorney can provide valuable assistance.
A PFAS lawsuit attorney can enlist the help of medical experts and environmental specialists to prove the connection between your exposure and health complications. They can help determine the most appropriate legal strategy for your situation, whether that’s an individual lawsuit or joining a class action. Throughout your case, your lawyer will negotiate aggressively with the defendants for a settlement that truly reflects the losses that you have suffered.
Take Action with Estey & Bomberger, LLP
The impact of PFAS contamination can be devastating to communities, families, and individuals. Estey & Bomberger, LLP represents those affected by these dangerous forever chemicals, holding responsible parties accountable for the harm they have caused.
Our lawyers have the resources and determination to take on complex toxic exposure cases, even against the largest corporate polluters. Contact us at (800) 260-7197 to discuss your potential PFAS claim with our PFAS lawsuit attorneys.