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Are you a firefighter
fighting cancer?

You may be entitled to compensation

Toxic forever chemicals may have caused your occupational cancer. We are ready to work to ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.

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What is Aqueous Film
Forming Foam? (AFFF)

Aqueous Film Forming Foam, or AFFF, was once the gold standard for fighting fires and combating jet fuel spills. Now, its fifty-year reign is crumbling as the horrific health effects of the chemicals contained in the foam are becoming increasingly apparent. AFFF contains perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). Collectively known as PFAS, these synthetic chemicals have been linked to increased rates of cancer, developmental delays, compromised immune systems, and other negative health outcomes.

Firefighter Turnout Gear

Studies have reported that every layer of firefighter turnout gear have PFAS, which have been linked to increased risks for cancers and other serious health conditions. Even before being exposed to fire, the materials and finishes on the turnout gear can cause health concerns.

A safe and effective alternative to PFAS-free turnout gear has yet to be identified so it is recommended that firefighters take precautionary measures, including: regularly cleaning apparatus cabs, washing your hands after handling turnout gear, and transporting gear in sealed containers/bags.

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PFAS and Your Health

The full extent of PFAS’ impact on health is yet to be fully understood. So far, they are linked to a myriad of health problems throughout the human body: 

  • Kidney disease and kidney cancer. This interferes with the kidneys’ ability to excrete PFAS in urine—the most common way they exit the body. 
  • Prostate and testicular cancers.
  • Developmental effects and delays, e.g. behavioral changes, low birth weight, accelerated puberty, and bone variations. 
  • Lowered immune response to infections and vaccines.
  • Increased cholesterol and/or risk of obesity.
  • Decreased fertility.

In pregnant women, increased risk of high blood pressure and pre-eclampsia.

Did You Know?

  • PFAS have been found in the blood of 97% of Americans. 
  • PFAS are everywhere. PFAS have been found in our food, food packaging, drinking water, air, soil, personal care products, and countless household products. 
  • The half-life of PFAS in the body ranges from 3.5 – 4.8 years. This is due in part to their incredibly strong carbon-fluorine bond. This means it could take decades before they leave your body—hence the name “forever chemicals.” 
  • PFAS can be passed to fetuses and newborns. Pregnant mothers can transfer PFAS into the womb by eating or drinking water or food contaminated with PFAS. They can also be excreted through breastmilk. 
  • More than 9,000 PFAS have been identified. More than 600 are currently used in products and industries U.S. today. 
  • As of June 2022, 2,858 communities in 50 states and two territories are known to be contaminated by PFAS.
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I have worked with Mr. Holihan/the firm on several occasions over the years. His knowledge of (FDNY) procedures and the law is for sure one-of-a-kind. I feel my legal matters benefitted from his knowledge. I would recommend without hesitation.

Robert M., Ret. FDNY Lieutenant

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Questions about your case?

Do you have questions about your case? Our team would love to help! Start your free claim review to see if you qualify and our friendly and knowledgable staff will assist you.

Plaintiff’s Co-Lead Counsel in the AFFF Litigation

Attorney Paul J. Napoli is serving as Plaintiffs’ Co-Lead Counsel on the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL) now in progress in South Carolina. He has served as Liaison Counsel on numerous toxic tort, class-action cases, including the Colorado PFOA/PFOS Toxic Tort Litigation, among many other landmark environmental lawsuits.

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