Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” are synthetic substances that have contaminated water supplies, workplaces, and communities across the United States for decades. These manufactured chemicals do not break down naturally and accumulate in the human body over time, leading to serious health complications including various forms of cancer.

Recent scientific evidence and legal developments have revealed that major chemical manufacturers knew about the health risks associated with PFAS exposure as early as the 1970s but failed to warn the public or take appropriate safety measures. If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other serious health conditions after exposure to PFAS, you may be entitled to significant compensation.

Understanding PFAS and Forever Chemicals

PFAS are a class of thousands of synthetic chemicals that have been used in American industry and consumer products since the 1940s. Due to their unique properties, these chemicals resist heat, water, and oil, making them valuable for various industrial and commercial applications.

The term “forever chemicals” reflects the fact that PFAS do not naturally degrade in the environment or human body. Once exposure occurs, these chemicals remain in the bloodstream indefinitely, building up over time and increasing the risk of serious health problems.

Common sources of PFAS exposure include:

Industrial and Occupational Sources:

• Aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF) used in firefighting
• Chemical manufacturing facilities
• Military bases and training facilities
• Airport firefighting operations
• Waste treatment plants

Consumer Products:

• Non-stick cookware and food packaging
• Water-resistant clothing and outdoor gear
• Stain-resistant carpets and upholstery
• Cosmetics and personal care products
• Cleaning products and food wrappers

Environmental Contamination:

• Contaminated drinking water supplies
• Agricultural products grown in contaminated soil
• Fish and wildlife from polluted waterways

Health Conditions Linked to PFAS Exposure

Scientific research has established connections between PFAS exposure and numerous serious health conditions. The accumulation of these chemicals in the body over time can lead to:

Cancer Types Associated with PFAS:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Liver cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Bladder cancer

Other Serious Health Conditions:

• High cholesterol and cardiovascular disease
• Pregnancy complications and decreased fertility
• Liver damage and dysfunction
• Immune system suppression
• Thyroid disease
• Developmental delays in children

Studies published in medical journals have documented that companies manufacturing PFAS knew about the cancer risks as far back as 1970, yet continued production and use of these chemicals without adequate warnings to workers or the public.

High-Risk Occupations for PFAS Exposure

Certain workers face elevated risks of PFAS exposure due to the nature of their employment. Occupations with documented high levels of PFAS exposure include:

• Firefighters: Regular use of AFFF firefighting foam containing PFAS
• Military personnel: Training and operations at bases with PFAS contamination
• Airport workers: Exposure through firefighting training and emergency response
• Chemical plant employees: Direct contact with PFAS during manufacturing processes
• Emergency responders: Use of AFFF foam during hazardous material incidents
• Waste management workers: Handling of PFAS-contaminated materials

These workers often experience prolonged, high-level exposure that significantly increases their risk of developing PFAS-related health conditions.

PFAS Water Contamination and Community Exposure

One of the most widespread forms of PFAS exposure occurs through contaminated drinking water. These chemicals have been detected in water supplies serving millions of Americans, with contamination often traced to:

• Military installations that used AFFF for training exercises
• Industrial facilities that discharged PFAS into waterways
• Landfills containing PFAS-contaminated waste
• Wastewater treatment plants unable to filter these persistent chemicals

Communities near these sources often show elevated levels of PFAS in their blood and higher rates of associated health conditions. In 2023, major PFAS manufacturers including Chemours, DuPont, and Corteva agreed to pay over $1 billion to begin addressing water contamination claims nationwide.

Corporate Knowledge and Cover-Up

Internal company documents have revealed that major chemical manufacturers were aware of PFAS health risks decades before this information became public. Evidence shows these companies:

• Conducted internal studies documenting health risks as early as the 1970s
• Failed to disclose dangerous health effects to regulators and the public
• Continued manufacturing and promoting PFAS despite known risks
• Lobbied against safety regulations and testing requirements

This pattern of corporate knowledge and concealment forms the basis for holding these companies accountable for the harm caused by their products.

Legal Accountability for PFAS Manufacturers

The attorneys at Harman Law Firm believe that companies who manufactured, used, or distributed PFAS-containing products while knowing the health risks should be held responsible for the injuries they caused. These corporations had a duty to:

• Conduct adequate safety testing before releasing products to market
• Warn workers and consumers about known health risks
• Implement proper safety measures to prevent exposure
• Discontinue dangerous products when risks became apparent

When companies fail to meet these basic obligations, they can be held liable for the medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages experienced by those they harmed.

Compensation Available in PFAS Lawsuits

Individuals who developed cancer or other serious health conditions after PFAS exposure may be entitled to substantial compensation, including:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of quality of life
• Wrongful death damages for surviving family members

The specific compensation available depends on the extent of exposure, severity of health conditions, and impact on the individual’s life and family.

Building Strong PFAS Cases

PFAS litigation requires extensive investigation and scientific evidence to establish the connection between exposure and health conditions. Successful cases typically involve:

• Documentation of PFAS exposure through work history or environmental testing
• Medical records establishing diagnosis and treatment
• Blood testing showing elevated PFAS levels
• Scientific evidence linking specific health conditions to PFAS exposure
• Expert testimony from medical and environmental specialists

At Harman Law Firm, we have the resources and experience necessary to conduct thorough investigations and build compelling cases against major chemical manufacturers.

Why Choose Harman Law Firm for Your PFAS Case

Harman Law Firm attorneys maintain a practice focus on defective drugs and medical devices, with extensive experience in complex toxic exposure litigation. We understand that most people are unaware of the extent to which chemical companies prioritize profits over public safety.

Our legal team has successfully represented clients against major corporations and pharmaceutical companies. We have the resources necessary to take on the chemical giants responsible for PFAS contamination and the commitment to hold them accountable for the harm they have caused.

We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no attorney fees unless we secure a favorable outcome in your case. This allows us to pursue justice for PFAS victims regardless of their financial circumstances.

Contact Our Atlanta PFAS Lawsuit Attorneys

PFAS exposure can lead to devastating health consequences that may not become apparent for years or decades. If you have been diagnosed with cancer or other serious health conditions and believe they may be related to forever chemicals exposure, it’s important to understand your legal rights.

Time limits apply to filing PFAS lawsuits, and building a strong case requires prompt investigation and evidence gathering. The sooner you contact an attorney, the better we can preserve important evidence and protect your interests.

Contact Harman Law Firm today for a free consultation to discuss your PFAS exposure and potential legal claims. Our experienced attorneys will evaluate your case and explain your options for seeking compensation.

Contact us online for your consultation or by calling (404) 554-0777.