PFAS Exposure and Kidney Cancer:
Understand the Risk and Take Action

 

Could PFAS and Forever Chemicals Be Responsible for Your Kidney Cancer?

Recent studies have linked exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “Forever Chemicals,” to an increased risk of kidney cancer. PFAS are man-made chemicals found in various household products, drinking water, firefighting foams, and industrial materials. Because these chemicals do not break down easily, they accumulate in the environment and the human body over time, leading to serious health concerns.

How Are People Exposed to PFAS?

PFAS contamination can occur through multiple sources, including:

  • Drinking Water: Many communities have reported PFAS contamination in their water supply due to industrial pollution and firefighting foam runoff.

  • Occupational Exposure: Firefighters, factory workers, and military personnel often face increased exposure due to the use of PFAS-containing materials.

  • Consumer Products: Non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothing, stain-resistant fabrics, and even some food packaging contain PFAS.

If you have been diagnosed with kidney cancer and believe you were exposed to PFAS through contaminated water, occupational hazards, or consumer products, you may be eligible to pursue legal action.

Diagnosing Kidney Cancer

Kidney cancer is often detected through imaging tests such as CT scans, MRIs, and ultrasounds. In some cases, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Symptoms like blood in the urine, lower back pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue, and swelling in the legs and ankles can indicate kidney cancer, making regular check-ups essential.

Some risk factors for kidney cancer include smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, genetic conditions, and exposure to harmful chemicals, including PFAS. Identifying potential risks early and taking proactive steps toward a healthier lifestyle can help reduce your chances of developing the disease.

 

Treatment Options for Kidney Cancer

The treatment plan for kidney cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:

  • Surgery: Removing part or all of the affected kidney (nephrectomy) is often the primary treatment.

  • Targeted Therapy: Medications designed to attack cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy cells.

  • Immunotherapy: Boosting the body's immune system to fight cancer more effectively.

  • Radiation Therapy: High-energy beams used to shrink or destroy cancer cells in specific areas.

  • Chemotherapy: Though less common for kidney cancer, some cases may require systemic treatment.

  • Active Surveillance: For small, slow-growing tumors, doctors may recommend close monitoring instead of immediate treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions About PFAS Contamination Lawsuits

If you are suffering from a health condition potentially linked to PFAS exposure, you may have numerous questions about pursuing legal action. Below, we provide answers to common inquiries about PFAS lawsuits.

Do I Qualify to File a PFAS Lawsuit?
You may qualify if you meet the following criteria:

  • Exposure: You consumed PFAS-contaminated water for at least six consecutive months after January 1, 1990.
  • Diagnosis: You were diagnosed with ulcerative colitis, kidney cancer, liver cancer, or testicular cancer after January 1, 2000.

How Can I Prove I Consumed Contaminated Water?
Several organizations, such as the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) and PFAS-REACH, provide interactive maps to help determine whether your water source was contaminated.

Once exposure is established, your doctor can test PFAS levels in your blood. While these tests won’t indicate safe or unsafe levels, they can substantiate your claim.

How Do I Prove My Diagnosis?
Proving your diagnosis is typically straightforward. Medical records or a statement from your healthcare provider can serve as evidence.

Are There Regions With Elevated PFAS Levels?
Yes. PFAS exposure is most common near urban areas and sources such as airports, fire training facilities, military bases, production plants (e.g., paper mills), water treatment sites, and landfills.

Regions with notable PFAS contamination include:

  • Southern and Central California
  • The Eastern Seaboard
  • The Great Plains
  • The Great Lakes

A U.S. Geological Survey study found PFAS in at least 45% of tap water samples nationwide.

How Do PFAS Cause Cancer?
While research is ongoing, certain PFAS chemicals have been linked to cancer. For example, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) as a human carcinogen in 2023 and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS) as a possible human carcinogen.

Studies have shown associations between PFAS exposure and testicular cancer, kidney cancer, and other conditions. Elevated PFAS levels have also been linked to health risks for individuals living near contaminated sites, such as military bases or production plants.

What PFAS Are Linked to Health Conditions?
Out of approximately 12,000 types of PFAS, the following are linked to adverse health effects:

  • PFOA: Associated with kidney cancer, testicular cancer, increased cholesterol, and decreased birth weight.
  • PFOS: Linked to cholesterol increases, immune response issues, and pregnancy-related complications.
  • PFNA: Associated with higher cholesterol levels.
  • PFDA: Linked to lower vaccine antibody response and cholesterol increases.
  • PFHxS: Associated with immune response changes and liver enzyme alterations.

If exposure to any of these chemicals resulted in a serious health condition, you may be eligible for compensation.

What Is the Average Settlement for PFAS Cases?
There is no standard settlement amount, as each case is unique. Potential compensation may include:

  • Current and future medical expenses
  • Lost wages and reduced earning capacity
  • Pain and suffering
  • Mental anguish
  • Loss of quality of life or consortium

An attorney can evaluate your case and provide a better estimate of potential compensation.

Are PFAS Cases Class Actions?
No, PFAS lawsuits are mass tort cases, specifically multidistrict litigation (MDLs). Unlike class actions, MDLs treat each lawsuit as an individual case, ensuring compensation reflects the specific damages of each plaintiff. This often results in higher payouts compared to class actions.

Can I Afford a PFAS Lawyer?
Yes. Most PFAS attorneys work on a contingency-fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront costs or hourly fees. Payment is only required if you recover compensation, with the fee deducted as a percentage of your settlement.

How Long Do I Have to File a PFAS Lawsuit?
The deadline depends on your state’s statute of limitations, which can range from one to several years. Consulting an attorney promptly is crucial to ensure you file within the required timeframe. Additional deadlines may apply based on your specific circumstances.

If you or a loved one has been affected by PFAS exposure, legal action can help you seek justice and compensation. Contact a qualified attorney to discuss your options.

Take Action Today

Manufacturers of PFAS chemicals have long been aware of their dangers but failed to warn the public. If you or a loved one has been affected, you deserve justice. Our legal team is here to help you fight for the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Don’t wait. Fill out the form to see if you qualify for a PFAS kidney cancer lawsuit. Time may be limited to take action, so contact us today for a free case evaluation. A successful lawsuit could provide the financial relief needed to cover costly medical treatments, lost income, and the emotional toll caused by this disease.

Your health matters. Your future matters. Let us help you take the next step toward justice.

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