Kidney Cancer and Military Service: The PFAS Connection

Veterans who experienced toxic exposure during their military service may face a higher risk of developing health issues, with kidney cancer being one of these conditions.

There is evidence that chemicals like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may increase servicemembers’ risk of kidney cancer. If you’re a veteran exposed to PFAS during your service, it’s important to understand the risks and your rights. Recent policy changes are helping veterans with kidney cancer receive the benefits they deserve. You may also have legal options available. Our experts are ready to guide you—contact us today for support.

Kidney Cancer and PFAS Contamination in the Military

PFAS chemicals are a type of long-lasting chemicals that may increase your risk of various illnesses, including kidney cancer. Military members may experience PFAS exposure in various settings during their service. These chemicals may be present in firefighting facilities, hangars, barracks, maintenance buildings, toxic burn pits, and more. PFAS can even contaminate base water supplies. Understanding the risks of PFAS can help veterans seek medical care and legal support if they develop kidney cancer or other related conditions.

What Are PFAS and Why Are They Dangerous?

PFAS are a type of chemicals that are known to be resistant to oil, heat, and water. Because of this, they have often been called “forever chemicals.” They take an extremely long time to break down and have been used for decades in everyday items such as nonstick cookware, food packaging, firefighting foam, cosmetics, and batteries. However, when they enter the human body, they can remain there for extremely long periods. They may increase your risk of various health conditions, especially if you experience PFAS exposure for extremely long periods.

High-Risk Military Occupations for PFAS Exposure

On the one hand, you might experience PFAS exposure in countless military settings. However, certain occupations may face higher risks of exposure. For example:

• Firefighters may experience exposure when using firefighting foams. For example, the commonly used foam AFFF is well-known to contain PFAS.
• Aircraft mechanics may handle various PFAS-containing chemicals. Many airplane parts are also coated with PFAS. Pilots and air crews may also experience exposure around aircraft.
• Hazardous materials handlers and environmental safety officers may face exposure during cleanup and monitoring.
• Construction engineers may use PFAS chemicals in their positions. Demolition teams may also experience exposure when tearing down facilities.
• Supply personnel may handle PFAS chemicals during deliveries.

Additionally, many military personnel and civilians may have been exposed to toxic burn pits which were widely used to dispose of chemicals, medical supplies, plastics, and other hazardous materials. The smoke from these pits releases harmful toxins into the air. The burning materials also contaminated the surrounding environment. The military has made significant efforts to eliminate and clean up burn pits. However, burn pits’ effects may continue to threaten veterans and their families.

The Link Between PFAS Exposure and Kidney Cancer in Military Personnel

Evidence suggests that long-term exposure to PFAS increases the risk of developing kidney cancer (and other health conditions). This is a particular concern for veterans. While PFAS are found in everyday life, military members may face higher risks of exposure. For example:

• PFAS may contaminate a military base’s water supply.
• Servicemembers might inhale PFAS while spraying firefighting foam or working near burn pits.
• Industrial or mechanical processes may involve PFAS-containing chemicals.

Policymakers have only begun to recognize and tackle the problem of PFAS contamination relatively recently. Safety practices regarding PFAS are becoming more widespread. However, their prevalence at military installations still may make them difficult to control. Moreover, generations of servicemembers may have experienced exposure at a time when the risks of PFAS were not well-known. As a result, veterans still face risks of developing health issues from PFAS exposure. Nevertheless, you have rights regarding PFAS-related health conditions from military service. The help of a legal professional can better ensure you get the benefits you deserve.

Kidney Cancer: Signs, Symptoms, and Side Effects

There are various types of kidney cancer, including:

• Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (the most common form)
• Papillary renal cell carcinoma
• Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma

While each type has specific characteristics, common symptoms of kidney cancer include:

• Blood in the urine
• Ongoing back or side pain
• Unexplained weight loss
• Consistent lethargy and fatigue
• Fever
• Swelling or lumps in the abdomen

These symptoms are not exclusive to kidney cancer, which may make the condition harder to detect early. If you notice any of these symptoms, especially if you were exposed to PFAS during military service, seek medical care. Early detection may significantly improve treatment outcomes.

Alternative health conditions linked to PFAS exposure

Kidney cancer is not the only condition you might develop following exposure to PFAS. They can also increase your risk of developing chronic kidney issues, along with other conditions such as:

• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Ulcerative colitis
• Skin cancer
• Lung cancer
• Ovarian cancer
• Liver disease
• High cholesterol
• Thyroid disease
• Cardiovascular disease
• Neurological problems

Moreover, PFAS exposure may cause problems with pregnancy, low birth weights, and harm to newborns. As a result, PFAS threatens virtually everyone who lives on or near a military base, such as spouses and children of servicemembers.

The PACT Act: Rights for Veterans with Kidney Cancer from PFAS

Efforts have been made to help those exposed to toxic substances during military service. A recent piece of legislation—the PACT Act of 2022—is particularly noteworthy. The act expands VA benefits and healthcare for those exposed to Agent Orange, toxic burn pits, and other harmful substances. 

Under the act, kidney cancer is now listed as a “presumptive condition.” This means the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) automatically (in most cases) presumes a link between the diagnosis and exposure to contamination during your service. As a result, veterans no longer need to prove their kidney cancer is service-related to receive benefits. If you are a veteran with kidney cancer, the PACT Act could make it easier for you to receive the care and compensation you deserve.

Policy Changes Regarding PFAS Use in the Military

Other policy changes aim to reduce servicemembers’ risk of PFAS exposure. For example:

• The Department of Defense (DoD) is phasing out PFAS-containing firefighting foam.
• The DoD is required to report the use and disposal of PFAS-containing materials on bases.
• The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established stricter guidelines for monitoring PFAS levels in military base water supplies.
• Lawmakers are pushing for more research into the effects of PFAS on military personnel.

These changes reflect a growing commitment to protecting military personnel from toxic exposures.

Filing a Claim for PFAS-Related Kidney Cancer

Veterans with kidney cancer who were stationed at military bases contaminated by PFAS may be able to file legal claims for compensation. However, you generally must meet certain criteria. These include:

• Stationing at a base contaminated with PFAS. Generally, you must have been stationed there for at least one year to file.
• Proof of a diagnosis of kidney cancer or other health issues linked to PFAS exposure.

You may also need to prove that you received a discharge other than dishonorable to qualify to file a claim. Other conditions may apply, and not all cases of kidney cancer will qualify for compensation. Keep in mind, kidney cancer may take 10 to 15 years to develop following exposure to PFAS. Therefore, you may be able to file a claim many years after your service. A dedicated legal team can help you document your case and determine eligibility.

How to Determine If You Were Exposed to PFAS in the Military

If you are concerned that you experienced PFAS exposure during your military service, a variety of resources can help you look into the matter. For example, you can check:

• Military Hazards’ list of contaminated bases: Look no further for a list of bases with known PFAS contamination. We’ve compiled our list of military bases with known PFAS contamination.
• The DoD: The DoD remains committed to addressing PFAS contamination at military installations. Check the DoD’s official PFAS site to learn more about these efforts.
• The Environmental Working Group (EWG):  The EWG’s interactive map allows you to track known and suspected PFAS contamination at at least 720 military installations nationwide.
• EPA Reporting: The EPA continues to monitor and track PFAS contamination in communities nationwide.
• The VA: The VA offers a variety of resources to educate Veterans on the risks of PFAS exposure.

Moreover, a variety of support groups exist to help veterans and their loved ones who are dealing with illnesses or disabilities sustained during military service. With the help of resources like these, you can take appropriate action to protect your health and access benefits following PFAS exposure.

The Importance of Long-Term Health Monitoring for Veterans Exposed to PFAS

Long-term health monitoring is essential for veterans exposed to PFAS, for several reasons.

1. Many of the health conditions linked to PFAS exposure may take years to develop. For example, kidney cancer may not appear for at least a decade following initial exposure.
2. Regular health screenings may help catch many potentially serious health issues before they have a chance to develop. Earlier intervention may minimize the impact of the condition and improve the veteran’s long-term health outlook.
3. Having a thorough health record documenting your care can help support veterans seeking VA health benefits. Additionally, your health record is important supporting evidence that may help you secure disability benefits related to PFAS exposure.
4. A veteran’s VA health record may help them stay connected to VA registries that allow them to access new treatments and resources.

But most importantly, regular healthcare helps you remain healthier, longer, ensuring that you continue to thrive for as long as possible.

Get In Touch With Our Legal Partners Today

If you’ve been diagnosed with kidney cancer as a result of your military service, legal help is available. You deserve the benefits you are entitled to, and a strong legal defense can help ensure you receive them. Contact us to speak to our legal partners specializing in PFAS-related cancer cases.

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