Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances, commonly known as PFAS, have been linked to several chronic health conditions. The NIH warns of the risks involved in the continued use of these substances. It recommends reduced exposure and has offered free blood testing for potential victims, as well as guidance on limiting exposure.
Scientific research has shown that exposure to these chemicals is linked to kidney, testicular, and prostate cancer, high blood pressure in pregnant people, liver damage, and thyroid issues, among others. The full extent of exposure to PFAS is not yet known, but the current known dangers are a cause for concern.
PFAS are found in daily items, such as food packaging, fire extinguishing foam, non-stick cookware, water-resistant clothes, and cosmetic products.
This post discusses what PFAS are, the health risks associated with them, and how an attorney can assist those affected in filing a lawsuit.
Why are They Called Forever Chemicals?
PFAs are referred to as “forever chemicals” because they can persist for decades. They contain a powerful carbon-fluorine bond, which makes them resistant to breakdown.
Your body’s system is designed to break down and eliminate toxins. However, PFAS are resistant to most of these processes and can accumulate over time, causing serious health issues. Forever chemicals also endure for years in soil, water, and other organisms.
There are thousands of these synthetic chemicals, and more are being produced, making it challenging to eradicate them from the environment. Additionally, their persistent nature means that those exposed decades ago may still experience the effects of their exposure.
Health Conditions are Linked to Forever Chemicals
PFAS production began in the 1940s. Studies dating back to the 1960s had already shown that these chemicals could accumulate in the blood, leading to adverse effects. However, it wasn’t until the 1990s that the public began hearing about the dangers of PFAS, also known as forever chemicals.
Today, it has been consistently shown that exposure to forever chemicals is linked to the following severe health conditions:
Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension
Some forever chemicals have been shown to suppress normal blood flow between the maternal endometrium and the placenta. They do this by inhibiting the production of the inflammatory proteins required for this process. (Goodrich, Jesse A et al.)
Scientists believe that this interference causes the risk of preeclampsia and pregnancy-induced hypertension. Studies show that exposure to PFAS increases the likelihood of high blood pressure during pregnancy in humans.
Liver damage
The risk of liver damage is associated with PFAS interference with normal lipid and bile acid metabolism in the liver. Without proper metabolism, fat can accumulate in the liver, causing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
Studies continue to uncover the effects of PFAS on the human liver. In 2022, a review of over 100 such studies showed a direct link between exposure to some PFAs and higher levels of alanine aminotransferase ALT in the blood (Costello, Elizabeth et al.).
ALT is an enzyme that, when present in the blood, signals liver damage. Although only 25 humans were used in the study, and further research is required for a broader understanding, the findings raise serious concerns about the health risks associated with PFAS. The PFAS linked to these changes are perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), and perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA).
It’s critical to note that the study showed high levels of ALT in both humans and rodents.
Thyroid disease
Forever chemicals impede liver functions by either disrupting thyroid hormone synthesis or mimicking natural hormones. Such interference can cause hormonal imbalances in the thyroid, which can lead to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. (Coperchini, F et al.) Exposed individuals can also be susceptible to autoimmune diseases like Hashimoto’s and Graves’ disease.
Interference with thyroid hormones also affects other biological processes, such as fetal development.
Immunotoxicity
The National Toxicology Program (NTP) found that PFAS are linked to immunotoxicity. These compounds interfere with the immune system by inhibiting the body’s antibody production, thereby reducing the body’s ability to fight diseases. It is especially concerning that the interference occurs after vaccination and compromises an individual’s protection against diseases such as diphtheria and tetanus. (Bline, Abigail P., et al.)
Reduced antibody production also leaves exposed individuals vulnerable to infections, such as those affecting the lower respiratory tract.
Testicular Cancer
According to the Environmental Agency (EPA), epidemiological evidence points to links between PFAS and testicular cancer. It is the most prevalent cancer in active-duty military men and young men in general. Researchers found that a higher level of PFOA is associated with an increased risk of developing testicular cancer.
Prevalence in men who lived on or near military bases can be connected to their exposure to PFAS present in firefighting foams that were used in these installations for years. (Hu, Xindi C et al.) The chemicals contaminated the water supply of Air Force installations, as evidenced by elevated levels in the blood of those who served as firefighters at these installations or on bases with higher levels of PFAS in their water supply.
To date, exposed individuals with serious health conditions have been able to file lawsuits seeking compensation. Potential victims can plan a free case evaluation with Krentsel Guzman Herbert, LLP.
Kidney cancer
The probability of developing renal cell carcinoma, the most common kidney cancer, increases with increased exposure to PFAS. While research continues on the exact mechanisms producing these effects, the hypothesis is that PFAs can damage the DNA, interfere with the immune system, and cause chronic inflammation—all of which are factors contributing to cancer.
Not all cases of kidney cancer are associated with PFAS exposure. However, if you have been exposed to these chemicals through contaminated water or other ways discussed here, you can speak to your physician about your concerns so that proper tests can be done. If your doctor finds a connection, you may be able to sue liable parties for compensation.
Due to ongoing research on the effects of the thousands of variations of PFAS, the list of health conditions we have discussed is not comprehensive. Emerging studies keep unveiling new health concerns you should be aware of. According to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), exposure to PFAS is also connected to minor decreases in birth weight and increases in cholesterol levels.
How Can a PFAS Exposure Lawyer Help Individuals?
Forever chemicals are dangerous, not only because they interfere with normal body processes, but especially because their effects last for decades. There have been numerous lawsuits against companies that concealed valuable information revealing the adverse health effects of PFAS on humans. Municipalities have also sought compensation.
If you are wondering whether you are eligible for compensation, speak to an experienced PFAS exposure attorney. Generally, veterans who developed cancers after consuming contaminated water when they served at military bases and individuals who suffered the same results living in nearby communities can file lawsuits.
Our seasoned attorneys can offer a free case evaluation to determine if you are eligible to file a lawsuit. Contact our offices for a free consultation.
References
- Goodrich, Jesse A et al. “Exposure to perfluoroalkyl substances and risk of hepatocellular carcinoma in a multiethnic cohort.” JHEP reports: innovation in hepatology vol. 4,10 100550. 8 Aug. 2022, doi:10.1016/j.jhepr.2022.
- Costello, Elizabeth et al. “Exposure to per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Markers of Liver Injury: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Environmental health perspectives vol. 130,4 (2022): 46001. doi:10.1289/EHP10092
- Coperchini, F et al. “Thyroid disruption by perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoate (PFOA).” Journal of endocrinological investigation vol. 40,2 (2017): 105-121. doi:10.1007/s40618-016-0572-z
- Bline, Abigail P., et al. “Public Health Risks of PFAS-Related Immunotoxicity Are Real.” Current Environmental Health Reports, vol. 11, no. 2, 2024, p. 118, https://doi.org/10.1007/s40572-024-00441-y. Accessed 28 Jul. 2025.
- Hu, Xindi C et al. “Detection of Poly- and Perfluoroalkyl Substances (PFASs) in U.S. Drinking Water Linked to Industrial Sites, Military Fire Training Areas, and Wastewater Treatment Plants.” Environmental science & technology letters vol. 3,10 (2016): 344-350. doi:10.1021/acs.estlett.6b00260
