The evidence continues to mount that a widely used firefighting foam may be linked to high cancer rates among U.S. firefighters.

There is an alarming cancer risk among firefighters due to using firefighting foam containing toxic chemicals known as PFAS (per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances).

Ben Brickhouse, a firefighter in Asheville, North Carolina, was forced into early retirement due to prostate cancer that had spread to his lymph nodes.

Ben Brickhouse, who became a firefighter later in life, initially anticipated a long career.

However, a routine physical in 2020 revealed an elevated prostate-specific antigen (PSA) level, a potential indicator of prostate cancer.

Subsequent tests confirmed the diagnosis, leading to the removal of his prostate.

Initially expecting a brief recovery period, Brickhouse's PSA levels did not return to normal, and further scans revealed that the cancer had spread, ending his firefighting career.

Only after his medical retirement and a lawsuit against the City of Asheville for workers' compensation benefits did Brickhouse learn about the link between cancer among firefighters and the use of Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF), which contains PFAS chemicals.

Brickhouse frequently used the foam as a firefighter during training, drills, and testing equipment.

The foam's leakage from fire trucks and the necessity to clean it up raised concerns about exposure.

The prevalence of cancer among firefighters and the widespread use of AFFF foam with PFAS chemicals are part of more significant national concerns.

Research indicates that high levels of PFAS chemicals may lead to various cancers and suppress the immune system.

Notably, PFAS-containing foam and gear used by firefighters have been identified as sources of exposure.

Despite these risks, many fire departments continue to use the foam, contributing to cancer becoming the leading cause of firefighter deaths, as the International Association of Fire Fighters reported.

The history of AFFF foam's introduction into firefighting begins with its development by 3M© in collaboration with the U.S. Navy to suppress fires:

• AFFF proved highly effective in extinguishing fuel fires and preventing reignition;
• Its success led to its widespread adoption by the military, commercial airports, and firefighting operations worldwide;
• However, early indications of the potential toxicity of PFAS chemicals associated with AFFF emerged as far back as the 1950s. 
• Despite this knowledge, public disclosure of these risks was delayed by 3M© for decades.

Studies in the 1980s revealed health problems linked to PFAS exposure, including kidney and liver issues.

The use of AFFF foam in firefighting and its associated health risks became more apparent over time, especially as it pertained to cancer.

A landmark study in 2013 indicated that firefighters had a higher risk of cancer than the general population.

Subsequent research found associations between firefighting and various cancers, leading to cancer being classified as "carcinogenic to humans" by the World Health Organization.

While some progress has been made, including phasing out PFAS chemicals from military firefighting foams and calls for airports to switch to PFAS-free alternatives, the chemical industry has exerted significant influence in resisting stricter regulations.

Despite the evidence, chemical companies argue that safe alternatives do not exist.

Some states have implemented bans or limitations on AFFF foam use, but the challenge remains in disposing of existing stockpiles safely.

One concerning aspect is the shelf life of AFFF foam, which can exceed 30 years, making many fire departments reluctant to dispose of it.

Additionally, the foam's composition makes it difficult to destroy without environmental risks.

Solutions such as the "PFAS Annihilator," which converts PFAS chemicals into safer compounds, offer potential alternatives.

Changing the culture within firehouses has also proven challenging:

• Firefighters have often downplayed the risks, with some even removing breathing apparatus prematurely after extinguishing fires;
• The tradition of keeping soiled and potentially toxic turnout gear and wearing it for extended periods has posed additional health risks;
• Challenges persist in transitioning to safer practices, such as more frequent cleaning and two gear sets per firefighter.

Ben Brickhouse and others affected by cancer within the firefighting community advocate for increased awareness, cancer screenings, and eliminating PFAS chemicals from all firefighting equipment and foam.

The urgency of these measures is underscored by the debilitating impact of cancer on firefighters' lives and the need to protect current and future generations of firefighters from this occupational hazard.

We believe that victims of cancer from toxic firefighting foam—and their families—deserve justice and compensation, starting with a free, private case