Posted on August 22nd, 2024
There is an association between exposure to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and an increased risk of developing thyroid cancer, as per evidence from multiple studies. Higher exposure to perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), a class of PFAS, can increase an individual's thyroid cancer risk by as much as 56%, as per researchers.
PFAS belongs to a group of artificial chemicals used in diverse consumer and industrial products ranging from waterproof clothing to firefighting foams. Because of their stubborn nature, these have been called forever chemicals, as these never degrade and persist in our environment. PFAS is a known endocrine disruptive chemical (EDC) that alters thyroid function and activates the receptors involved in the development of thyroid cancer. With this background knowledge about PFAS and its exposure being a potential risk factor for thyroid cancer, researchers began to dig out more information.
Recent studies that investigated the link between PFAS exposure and thyroid cancer
An ecological study published in September 2023 showed a significant link between drinking water PFAS levels and thyroid cancer incidence, particularly in the Northeastern states of the US.
In November 2023, a study published in eBioMedicine suggested that exposure to PFOS was associated with a 56% increased risk for thyroid cancer among participants with a high level of the chemical in their blood. The researchers identified 88 patients with thyroid cancer and 88 healthy controls to measure PFAS levels in blood samples. An analysis of a subgroup of 31 patients conducted at least one year after the collection of plasma samples confirmed that a positive association exists between PFOS and thyroid cancer. The study results provide us with solid epidemiological evidence to believe the hypothesis that PFAS exposure is a risk factor for thyroid cancer, specifically papillary thyroid cancer, which accounts for 80% to 85% of all thyroid cancer cases.
Be vigilant and watch out for the thyroid cancer signs and symptoms
About 97% of residents of the United States have PFAS in their serum, which confirms people are extensively exposed to the toxic chemical. The American Cancer Society estimates 44,020 new thyroid cancer cases in the US during the year 2024. Thyroid cancer develops slowly without any apparent symptoms initially. If you believe that you have been exposed to PFAS either at your workplace, while serving in the military, or due to staying at a contaminated military base, you need to watch out for the following symptoms and seek subsequent medical attention:
- A painless neck swelling in the front portion
- Hoarseness in voice
- Difficulty swallowing or breathing
- Soreness in the throat
- Lymph node swelling in the neck
We can help you file your claim for PFAS toxic exposure-related thyroid cancer
With over 30 years of experience, ELG is always ready to provide quality legal assistance. If you are a veteran or if you have spent time at a military base with a history of PFAS contamination for at least a year and are now battling thyroid cancer, contact us for a case evaluation, as you might be entitled to financial compensation.
Our legal team would require records about military service if you are a veteran and your family member's proof of stay at an army base and medical records. We will check whether you are eligible to file a claim, and if you do so, we will proceed with further steps in claiming your compensation.
