The use of aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) in military operations has long been a standard practice for extinguishing fires. However, this practice has had unforeseen and severe health consequences for many service members.
The Hill reports that 5 million veterans were screened under a new law. Nearly half of them had at least one possible exposure to toxic substances during their military service. This milestone announcement highlighted that 43 percent of those screened or 2.1 million veterans, were exposed to hazardous materials.
This article discusses the significant challenges these veterans exposed to AFFF endure and the ongoing efforts to address this critical issue.
AFFF and the Shadow of PFAS
AFFF’s effectiveness lies in its key ingredient: per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These man-made chemicals, present since the 1950s, create a fire-resistant foam that extinguishes flames involving flammable liquids like gasoline.
ConsumerNotice.org explains that two of the most common PFAS types in firefighting foam are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS). These persistent chemicals don’t break down easily in the environment and can accumulate in the body over time.
While the EPA and VA acknowledge small amounts pose minimal risk, the U.S. Fire Administration warns of potential health problems from long-term exposure.
Militaries worldwide, including the U.S., have extensively used AFFF for firefighting and training exercises. Large companies like 3M have been major manufacturers of the foam for decades. However, its story takes a dark turn with the growing awareness of potential health risks associated with PFAS exposure. This raises concerns for firefighters and veterans who may have been exposed for extended periods.
Health Impacts on Veterans
Veterans who have been exposed to firefighting foam face an elevated risk of developing cancers such as kidney, testicular, and bladder cancer. Thyroid disease and immune system disorders are also common, leading to a host of chronic health issues.
The connection between firefighting and cancer has become increasingly evident over the past decade. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) notes that the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) reclassified the firefighting occupation as a “Group 1” carcinogen. This upgrade is from its previous “Group 2B” classification of “possibly carcinogenic” in 2010.
Numerous studies have shown a heightened risk of several cancers among firefighters, including non-Hodgkin lymphoma, myeloma, and prostate cancer. While results have varied, the overall trend indicates an elevated cancer risk for those in the profession.
The burden is both physical and emotional. Veterans grapple with the long-term consequences of their service and the impact on their families and personal lives. This multifaceted struggle underscores the urgent need for better support and resources for veterans facing AFFF-related health issues.
Legal and Regulatory Landscape
TorHoerman Law notes that the fight for justice for veterans exposed to the foam extends beyond healthcare. Legal and regulatory battles are ongoing, with veterans’ advocates and legal firms at the forefront.
Current laws and regulations aim to mitigate the impact of PFAS. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has set health advisory levels for PFAS and is working on establishing more stringent regulatory standards. Additionally, the Department of Defense (DoD) has also initiated efforts to phase out the use of PFAS-containing AFFF and transition to safer alternatives.
The VA recognizes the link between AFFF exposure and certain health conditions, enabling veterans to file VA claims for exposure to AFFF. Additionally, veterans can pursue legal action by filing firefighting foam lawsuits against manufacturers of AFFF. These lawsuits aim to hold manufacturers accountable for the health impacts of PFAS and secure financial compensation for affected individuals.
Despite these efforts, progress in legislation has faced setbacks. Regulatory measures are often slow to implement, and there is ongoing debate about acceptable PFAS levels and the timeline for phasing out harmful substances. Advocacy and legal support remain essential in driving forward the legislative changes needed to protect veterans and address the contamination effectively.
Advancing Research and Support for Veterans
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is taking proactive steps to enhance understanding and support for veterans affected by environmental exposures, including AFFF.
In 2023, the VA’s Health Outcomes Military Exposures (HOME) introduced the Surveillance Military Environmental Exposures (SMEE) division. SMEE’s primary mission is to gather and analyze data related to military environmental exposures and veteran health outcomes.
A significant initiative underway at SMEE is the development of an online information center dedicated to federally funded toxic exposure research. This comprehensive resource aims to empower veterans and researchers with easily accessible data and publications stemming from VA-funded studies.
Scheduled for completion over a 5-year phased effort, the information center will feature a fully searchable interface, ensuring robust access to research findings.
The establishment of SMEE and its ongoing research efforts demonstrate a growing commitment to addressing the health needs of veterans. Combined with continued advocacy efforts, legal battles, and ongoing research by independent scientists, the future holds promise for veterans struggling with AFFF-related illnesses.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does VA disability work?
VA disability is a tax-free monetary benefit paid to veterans with disabilities resulting from a disease or injury during active military service. The amount varies based on the disability rating, ranging from 10% to 100% in increments of 10%. Higher ratings correspond to greater compensation to support veterans’ needs.
What is the VA disability rating for toxic exposure?
The VA disability rating for toxic exposure on military bases ranges from 0% to 100%, based on the severity of resulting disabilities. Veterans may qualify for various benefits such as compensation, healthcare, vocational rehabilitation, and more, tailored to the degree of disability assessed by the VA.
What are the benefits of AFFF?
AFFF is effective in extinguishing fires involving flammable liquids by forming a blanket that suppresses oxygen and cools the fire. Its quick action and ability to prevent reignition make it a crucial tool in firefighting operations, particularly in military and industrial settings.
To sum up, the plight of veterans battling AFFF-related illnesses is a reminder of the unseen costs of service. While significant challenges remain, a wave of progress is building. Increased awareness, dedicated research efforts, and ongoing legal battles offer hope for a brighter future.
The road ahead requires continued action. We must support veterans’ advocacy groups, hold manufacturers accountable, and ensure veterans receive the healthcare and benefits they deserve.
The story of veterans and AFFF is not just about statistics and regulations. It’s about the human cost. By working together, we can ensure veterans exposed to the foam receive the recognition, support, and justice they deserve.
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