A major turning point in the ongoing discussion about “forever chemicals” is the notable discovery. According to a recent study from the University of Birmingham, perfluoroalkyl substances, or PFAS, can be absorbed through human skin.
Environmental chemists used lab-created 3D human skin models resembling real skin to study how PFAS chemicals permeate the dermis. Findings from The Conversation, confirm that those chemists observed distinct PFAS absorption rates. This conclusion may have a significant impact on the AFFF lawsuit, which includes allegations of health harm from PFAS exposure.
As per the Consumer Notice, the AFFF (Aqueous Film Forming Foam) lawsuit centers on suppliers concealing PFAS dangers in firefighting foams. Manufacturers allegedly hid the harmful properties of these chemicals. Plaintiffs, in this regard, include members of the impacted communities, firefighters, and military personnel. They allege that these foams’ exposure to PFAS caused major health problems like cancer, weakened immune systems, and developmental abnormalities.
The bellwether trial phase of the lawsuit has been reached. The trials have already been proven to be rather complex. It’s due to a continuous barrage of new scientific discoveries. What would the revelation on the dermal absorption of PFAS mean for the future of the litigation?
Where is the AFFF lawsuit Currently Headed?
The AFFF litigation stems from the use of firefighting foams containing PFAS, which are known to persist in the environment. US Department of Veterans Affairs highlights that the toxic chemicals pose health risks.
PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in firefighting foam due to their water-repellent properties. They are known as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body.
The lawsuit alleges the harmful occurrence is due to the act of casualty and ignorance from AFFF manufacturers and suppliers. Eventually, it has resulted in widespread contamination and health concerns. Victims include firefighters, military personnel, and communities near military bases and airports.
The AFFF foam lawsuit has now reached the bellwether trial phase. It’s a stage in which a few select cases are tried first to help predict outcomes in the larger litigation. Bellwether trials are early test cases that help predict outcomes in larger litigation. They are critical in shaping potential settlements and directing the resolution of numerous related, pending cases.
Currently, several bellwether trials are scheduled, focusing on claims of personal injury and environmental contamination. Key conditions under focus in these trials include:
- Cancer diagnoses: Plaintiffs are claiming that PFAS exposure caused a variety of cancers, including kidney, testicular, and pancreatic cancer. The claim is backed by data from the Division of Cancer Epidemiology and Genetics (DCEG) at the National Cancer Institute.
- Water contamination: A study published in Environmental Science & Technology Letters has established that PFAS contamination from AFFF has polluted their drinking water. This directly endangers local communities, according to TorHoerman Law.
The New Study on Dermal Absorption of PFAS
A groundbreaking study by Dr. Oddný Ragnarsdóttir at the University of Birmingham shows PFAS absorption through human skin. The researchers discovered that 15 of the 17 tested PFAS compounds could penetrate the skin barrier. Some chemicals absorb 58.9% (PFPeA or Perfluoropentanoic acid). This finding challenges previous assumptions that PFAS, due to their ionized state, could not breach the skin.
Shorter-chain PFAS are commonly used as replacements for longer-chain variants. The study found that the former category is more easily absorbed through the skin. It adds a new dimension to our understanding of PFAS exposure and potential health consequences.
What Does This Mean for the Future of the AFFF Lawsuit?
The implications of this study for the AFFF lawsuit are significant. Now established that PFAS absorbs through the skin, more exposure claims may arise. This includes direct contact cases like those of firefighters and military personnel.
The study could support the claims of current plaintiffs. They may now have more solid proof of PFAS exposure and its health effects. Higher settlement amounts or better trial results could result from this.
This new evidence may impact the outcomes of the bellwether trials, possibly in favor of the plaintiffs. Consequently, this may expedite the settlement of the wider legal dispute.
Will the AFFF MDL Accept Any New Cases?
Unquestionably, the lawsuit may lead to an increase in the variety of health issues connected to PFAS exposure. When exposure occurs through the skin, it can reveal new health conditions. Instances include dermatological issues as well as systemic effects that were previously unknown.
This may result in a recent spike in new cases. It is unlikely, though, that they will be involved in the current trials. In the ongoing AFFF litigation, the finding that PFAS can be absorbed through the skin adds a piece of evidence. More cases and more comprehensive claims could all be part of future litigations.
Looking ahead, the study may also lead regulatory agencies to reevaluate PFAS exposure limits and safety guidelines in the workplace. This could lead to stricter laws and enhanced safety measures for those handling these substances.
