Exposure to PFAS in AFFF firefighting foam may result in an increased risk for breast cancer and other serious health problems.
Several studies, including a meta analysis published in the journal “Toxics“, found that certain PFAS chemicals increase the risk for developing breast cancer. According to researchers, the following types of PFAS chemicals were associated with a higher risk for breast cancer:
- Perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS)
- Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA)
- Perfluoro-n-decanoic acid (PFDA)
Another study looked at the levels of PFAS exposure on women firefighters in San Francisco. Researchers at the University of California, Berkeley found an increased risk for female firefighters to suffer from effects of PFAS exposure than women working in other professions.
Symptoms of breast cancer typically include:
- New lump in the breast or underarm (armpit).
- Thickening or swelling of part of the breast.
- Irritation or dimpling of breast skin.
- Redness or flaky skin in the nipple area or the breast.
- Pulling in of the nipple or pain in the nipple area.
- Nipple discharge other than breast milk, including blood.
- Any change in the size or the shape of the breast.
- Pain in any area of the breast.
More Research On PFAS Chemicals And Cancer Risk
Studies have shown that certain PFAS chemicals, such as PFOA and PFOS, can increase the risk of certain cancers.
- A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found a statistically significant association between PFOA exposure and an increased risk of kidney cancer, testicular cancer, and ulcerative colitis.
- Another study published in the International Journal of Cancer found a positive association between PFOS exposure and breast cancer.
- The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has classified PFOA as a possible carcinogen, and PFOS as possibly carcinogenic to humans.
- The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has issued a health advisory for PFOA and PFOS, stating that long-term exposure to these chemicals above certain levels could be harmful to human health.
The evidence linking PFAS exposure to cancer is concerning, and further research is needed to fully understand the potential health effects of these chemicals.
