Table of Contents
- What is Firefighting Foam (AFFF)?
- Why Firefighters in San Diego Are at Risk
- Causes of Cancer Linked to AFFF Exposure
- How to Identify If AFFF Exposure Caused Cancer
- Legal Pathways: Filing an AFFF Lawsuit in San Diego
- Case Study 1: San Diego Firefighter with Kidney Cancer
- Case Study 2: Retired Fire Captain with Prostate Cancer
- Case Study 3: Military Firefighter Exposed at Naval Base San Diego
- Steps to File a Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuit
- Resources for Firefighters and Families
- Conclusion
What is Firefighting Foam (AFFF)?
Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) is a chemical-based firefighting foam used for decades to extinguish fuel-based fires, particularly in airports, military bases, and industrial areas. According to Wikipedia, AFFF contains per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)—toxic compounds often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they persist in the environment and the human body for decades.
These PFAS chemicals, including perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), have been linked to several types of cancers and long-term health conditions. The American Cancer Society has reported strong evidence that PFOA exposure is associated with kidney and testicular cancer, as well as thyroid disease and liver damage.
Why Firefighters in San Diego Are at Risk
San Diego has a dense concentration of military installations, airports, and industrial facilities, where AFFF has been widely used. Firefighters in these areas are frequently exposed to PFAS through:
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Direct firefighting activities involving AFFF.
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Training exercises where large volumes of AFFF are sprayed.
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Contaminated water and soil around bases like Naval Base San Diego and the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar.
LawRS highlights that San Diego residents and firefighters are filing lawsuits after being diagnosed with cancer directly tied to AFFF exposure.
Causes of Cancer Linked to AFFF Exposure
Research published on the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) shows that PFAS in AFFF disrupt hormonal balance, weaken the immune system, and increase cancer risk. The most common cancers associated with PFAS include:
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Kidney cancer
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Testicular cancer
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Prostate cancer
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Liver cancer
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Pancreatic cancer
How AFFF causes cancer:
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PFAS accumulate in the blood and organs.
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They disrupt cell function and immune response.
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Long-term exposure damages DNA and promotes tumor growth.
How to Identify If AFFF Exposure Caused Cancer
Firefighters and military personnel can determine whether AFFF caused their illness by evaluating:
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Occupational History – Years of service in firefighting or military training with AFFF.
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Medical Diagnosis – Types of cancer commonly linked to PFAS.
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Environmental Testing – Checking local water contamination levels around San Diego fire stations and bases.
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Expert Legal Review – Lawyers specializing in AFFF lawsuits can assess service records, medical history, and exposure levels.
For deeper insight into PFAS impacts, read our internal blog: PFAS: Understanding the Forever Chemicals and Their Impact on Health and Environment.
Legal Pathways: Filing an AFFF Lawsuit in San Diego
Firefighters in San Diego who developed cancer may be eligible to join the nationwide AFFF Multidistrict Litigation (MDL). These lawsuits seek compensation for:
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Medical bills and cancer treatment costs
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Loss of wages and disability benefits
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Pain and suffering damages
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Wrongful death compensation for families
Our related guide explores these legal aspects in detail: AFFF Firefighting Foam Lawsuit: Health Risks, PFAS Exposure & Legal Rights.
Case Study 1: San Diego Firefighter with Kidney Cancer
Name: Michael R., age 42
Background: Michael served as a firefighter in San Diego for 18 years. He participated in annual training sessions that used large amounts of AFFF.
Medical Diagnosis: In 2019, Michael was diagnosed with kidney cancer. His oncologist confirmed high PFAS levels in his blood.
Legal Outcome: Michael filed an AFFF cancer lawsuit with the help of local attorneys. His case was consolidated into the national MDL, and he is awaiting settlement.
Case Study 2: Retired Fire Captain with Prostate Cancer
Name: David S., age 61
Background: David worked at the Marine Corps Air Station Miramar. His role included supervising fuel fire drills involving AFFF.
Medical Diagnosis: Diagnosed with aggressive prostate cancer in 2021. His exposure history showed decades of direct contact with firefighting foam.
Legal Outcome: His legal team proved long-term PFAS exposure and secured significant compensation to cover medical bills and retirement needs.
Case Study 3: Military Firefighter Exposed at Naval Base San Diego
Name: Anthony L., age 38
Background: Served as a Navy firefighter at Naval Base San Diego. Trained extensively with AFFF, often without protective gear.
Medical Diagnosis: Developed testicular cancer at 36. Laboratory tests indicated elevated PFAS biomarkers in his system.
Legal Outcome: Joined the federal MDL against AFFF manufacturers. His case highlights the military’s significant risk exposure.
Steps to File a Firefighting Foam Cancer Lawsuit
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Medical Records: Obtain diagnosis and PFAS test results.
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Service Records: Document firefighting or military duties.
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Legal Consultation: Contact a law firm handling AFFF lawsuits.
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File Claim: Lawsuits may be consolidated under MDL 2873.
For alternatives to AFFF and preventive measures, read our guide: AFFF Firefighting Foam: Health Risks, Legal Cases, and Safer Alternatives.
Resources for Firefighters and Families
Conclusion
Firefighters in San Diego face serious health risks from prolonged exposure to AFFF. With mounting medical research and legal action, many are now filing lawsuits to hold manufacturers accountable. If you or a loved one served as a firefighter or military personnel in San Diego and were later diagnosed with cancer, seeking legal guidance is critical.
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