Does PFAS Exposure Increase Risk of Non Hodgkins Lymphoma?

What is Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma?

Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a cancer that originates in the lymphatic system, which is part of the body’s immune network. Specifically, it involves an overgrowth of lymphocytes, the white blood cells responsible for helping us fight infections. There are multiple subtypes of NHL, usually classified by the type of lymphocyte involved (B-cells or T-cells) and the rate at which the disease progresses.

One of the challenges with NHL is its broad range of manifestations. Diffuse large B-cell lymphoma is considered one of the more aggressive forms, while follicular lymphoma often progresses more slowly. According to the American Cancer Society, determining a patient’s specific NHL subtype is critical because each responds differently to treatments. For instance, an aggressive subtype may require chemotherapy and immunotherapy sooner than a lower-grade disease.

When lymphoma begins, abnormal cells multiply in the lymph nodes, sometimes forming tumors. These diseased cells may then spread through the lymphatic vessels, potentially reaching other lymph nodes or even organs outside the system. Because the lymphatic system runs throughout the body, the disease can emerge in several regions at once.

Many factors can influence whether an individual is more likely to develop NHL. Examples include genetic predispositions, autoimmune conditions, certain infections such as Epstein-Barr virus, and immunosuppressive medications. Occupational or environmental exposures, including certain chemicals, have also attracted interest from researchers. Benzene is a long-studied example linked to blood cancers, but PFAS have joined the list of chemicals under investigation for their immunotoxic properties.

While no one factor definitively causes every case of NHL, the disease’s influence on the immune system is a consistent hallmark. By destabilizing normal immune mechanisms, harmful agents may create an environment that allows abnormal cells to flourish.

What are PFAS and how do they impact the immune system?

PFAS is an umbrella term referring to thousands of synthetic chemicals used in a variety of industries. They are often found in non-stick cookware, water-repellent textiles, firefighting foams, and industrial applications in aerospace, automotive, and electronics. Their chemical structure is exceptionally stable, which makes them resistant to heat and water. However, that same stability means PFAS can persist in the environment for decades, leading to widespread exposure through soil, water, and air.

According to the National Toxicology Program (NTP), two well-known PFAS variants—PFOA and PFOS—are recognized for their potential to suppress immune function. This suppression may manifest as reduced antibody response and changes in how immune cells, like lymphocytes, function. Immune dysregulation is a key concern because a properly functioning immune system helps spot and destroy irregular cells. If those checks fail, abnormal growths, including lymphoma, can take hold more easily.

Scientists have studied immune system biomarkers among people with elevated PFAS in their blood, sometimes finding lower antibody responses to vaccines and a higher rate of infections. Although these findings do not prove a one-to-one cause of NHL, they highlight the ability of PFAS to alter immune pathways linked to cancer defense.

Regulatory agencies like the EPA have noted the importance of “safe, secure, and trustworthy” analysis as they continue to investigate the health implications of these chemicals. Their research often looks at real-world examples of PFAS exposure, such as communities living near manufacturing plants or individuals routinely exposed to aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF). Over time, a buildup of PFAS in the bloodstream may alter immune homeostasis, potentially contributing to chronic inflammation and cell damage.

While precise mechanisms still need further exploration, growing data suggests that PFAS can disrupt how white blood cells operate and multiply. For diseases like NHL, which hinge on lymphocyte irregularities, even minor immune system shifts could be significant.

How could PFAS exposure contribute to blood cancers?

Researchers propose several biological pathways that could link PFAS exposure to blood cancers, including immune suppression, chronic inflammation, oxidative stress, and direct genotoxic effects. Immune suppression stands out as a leading theory. When the immune system is weakened, its surveillance against errant cellular growth diminishes. This can allow pre-cancerous or mutated cells to thrive instead of being targeted and destroyed.

Chronic inflammation is a second pathway under investigation. PFAS have been shown in some environments to spark sustained, low-level inflammatory responses in body tissues. Over long periods, ongoing inflammation can produce cellular stress and increase the likelihood of DNA damage, which, if left unrepaired, can promote cancer. Alongside inflammation, oxidative stress can lead to mutations and disrupt normal cell processes. These cumulative effects may encourage the aberrant growth patterns seen in lymphomas.

Direct genotoxicity—where a substance damages the genetic material within lymphocytes—has also emerged as a potential mechanism. Chemicals like PFOA and PFOS might interfere with DNA replication or repair functions, although evidence in humans remains under active study. Even subclinical damage, replicated over many cell divisions, can heighten cancer risk.

Finally, immunotoxicity studies have revealed changes in lymphocyte behavior when PFAS levels are high in the bloodstream. In certain laboratory experiments, PFOS and PFOA appear to reduce the responsiveness of T-cells and B-cells, which are key players in the body’s disease-fighting system. If these cells respond too slowly or inadequately to threats, abnormal cellular proliferation can become more likely.

None of these pathways alone conclusively prove that PFAS cause NHL. However, combined findings paint a picture of potential biological interference that aligns with how blood cancers can form. Further research is ongoing, and major institutions stress the need for longitudinal studies to track exposure levels alongside clinical outcomes.

What does the research say about PFAS and NHL?

Numerous studies have attempted to quantify whether heightened PFAS exposure correlates with a higher incidence of NHL. Some large-scale epidemiological projects observed a statistically significant association between PFOA and PFOS levels in blood and increased risks of NHL, especially among populations with sustained high exposure. For example, firefighters who repeatedly used AFFF or residents near contaminated water sources have sometimes shown greater rates of certain cancers, including lymphoma.

On the other hand, some investigations have found little or no overall link. One study mentioned in the research indicated no positive association between PFAS exposure and B-cell non-Hodgkin lymphoma in participants with PFAS concentrations comparable to the general population. Researchers did note an “inverse association” between certain PFAS, like perfluorononanoate (PFNA), and specific lymphoma subtypes under certain conditions. The same study reported a possible positive link between perfluorohexane sulfonate (PFHxS) and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, although the results were described as suggestive rather than conclusive.

Discrepancies in findings often stem from variations in study design. Differences in participants’ baseline health, the type of PFAS measured, the window of exposure, and the length of follow-up can all influence results. Many experts recommend further investigation into specific subtypes of NHL, since some may be more vulnerable to PFAS-induced immune or genetic effects.

It is also worth noting that PFAS exposure frequently occurs with other pollutants, making it challenging to pinpoint a singular cause. Epidemiological studies must account for confounding factors like smoking, occupational hazards, and pre-existing immunological conditions. Where multiple exposures overlap, attributing risk solely to PFAS becomes more complex.

Nonetheless, the body of research underscores that individuals with elevated PFAS exposure may be more susceptible to immune-related diseases. Recent updates from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) raised PFOA and PFOS to more concerning classifications based on updated evidence of carcinogenic potential. Organizations such as the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health have labeled PFAS as possible occupational hazards where immune disruption is concerned.

While no authoritative consensus states “PFAS cause NHL” outright, those living or working in high-exposure settings are among the first populations studied for possible correlations. The trend in ongoing litigation, particularly related to AFFF, further illustrates that many believe the scientific evidence of PFAS’s role in diseases like NHL is sufficiently strong to warrant legal action.

Populations most at risk for PFAS-linked NHL

Some populations appear to be more consistently exposed to the kinds of PFAS levels that may alter immune function and heighten the risk of blood cancers. Understanding these at-risk groups is crucial for targeted monitoring, preventive measures, and early intervention.

Military and firefighter communities

Firefighters and military personnel are routinely exposed to AFFF, especially during training exercises and in emergency scenarios where the foam is sprayed for fire suppression. AFFF is known to contain high amounts of PFAS. Over time, these chemicals can accumulate in the blood. According to ongoing lawsuits in the AFFF multidistrict litigation, many individuals who used AFFF extensively have reported higher incidences of cancers, including NHL. Studies are still investigating the precise link, but many plaintiffs argue that prolonged exposure led to adverse effects.

Residents near contaminated water sources

Communities located near industrial sites, military bases, or firefighting training areas may face higher PFAS levels in groundwater. Over decades, PFAS chemicals can seep into aquifers and municipal water systems. While filtration technologies like carbon filters and reverse osmosis can reduce PFAS in drinking water, not everyone has consistent access to these measures. In some regions, local residents only became aware of contamination after routine monitoring revealed elevated PFAS levels. For those who consume water with higher-than-average concentrations, long-term exposure might deepen risks of NHL and related conditions.

If you are concerned about local water safety, you might find more detail in our pfas contamination map, which offers an overview of areas in the United States where higher PFAS levels have been identified. Knowing whether your community is affected is often the first step toward seeking proper testing and remediation.

Workers in PFAS manufacturing and processing

Industrial employees who handle PFAS-laden materials can face chronic exposure through inhalation or direct contact. Manufacturers, chemical processing plants, and workers involved in producing consumer goods that include PFAS coatings may breathe in airborne particles or inadvertently ingest PFAS residues. The extended duration of occupational exposure can significantly raise blood concentrations of PFAS, potentially increasing susceptibility to immune-related disorders. Some workforce studies have noted elevated PFAS levels among plant employees, prompting further health surveillance to detect early signs of illness.

Government and scientific statements on PFAS and NHL

Regulatory agencies and scientific bodies have issued various statements on the potential link between PFAS and cancers like NHL. While few outright declare PFAS as definitive causes, there is a growing recognition that these chemicals warrant careful study and possibly stricter regulation.

The EPA states it is “committed to providing meaningful information on PFAS” to help the public understand possible risks. It supports ongoing research and has set advisory levels for PFOA, PFOS, and other key PFAS in drinking water, stressing that these are not enforceable regulatory standards but public health guidelines.

On the scientific front, the International Agency for Research on Cancer upgraded PFOA to a human carcinogen in 2023 (IARC). PFOS was also classified as a possible human carcinogen that same year. The National Toxicology Program has concluded that certain PFAS “are hazardous to immune system function,” indicating that long-term exposure could have serious health implications. Although these positions do not specifically classify PFAS as direct causes of NHL, they reflect an ongoing push for more robust data on cancer endpoints.

Institutional statements also highlight the role of cumulative or lifetime exposure. Unlike some chemicals that leave the body quickly, PFAS persist in human tissues. Chronic, low-dose exposure can lead to concentrations that potentially create physiological changes, including immune suppression. As PFAS research expands, many scientists argue that mandatory regulations may be necessary to protect public health, especially for groups facing repeated contact with these substances.

International collaboration is increasing too. Organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) have issued preliminary guidelines. While broad consensus remains in development, momentum points toward more stringent oversight. In the meantime, experts suggest that individuals be aware of potential contamination in their water, food, and products, especially in regions with documented industrial discharge.

Can blood or water testing confirm exposure levels?

Yes. Blood tests measuring PFAS concentrations can provide a snapshot of recent cumulative exposure. Individuals with suspected high-level contact—such as firefighters or residents near industrial sites—often undergo blood testing to clarify how much PFAS is present in their system. While elevated PFAS levels do not automatically indicate NHL or any specific disease, they can help doctors assess whether immune system monitoring or additional evaluations are advisable.

Water testing is another critical component. Utilities in some states are required to periodically check PFAS levels in municipal supplies, reporting these findings to local health authorities. Private well owners may need to commission their own tests through accredited labs. This process often involves collecting water samples according to standardized protocols and sending them to a pfas testing lab that measures various PFAS compounds. Certified labs can detail the specific chemicals present, such as PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, and PFNA, and how each concentration compares to recommended limits.

When tests reveal PFAS levels above state or federal guidelines, residents can explore filtration options. Carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems have demonstrated efficacy in reducing many PFAS types in household water. However, these technologies can be costly and may require frequent maintenance. For those who suspect contamination at home, engaging with local environmental agencies and seeking professional guidance on water treatment is often the best approach.

It is important to note that both blood and water tests serve as diagnostic tools for exposure, not proof of disease. Elevated PFAS markers can prompt closer medical observation, but they do not confirm whether a person will develop NHL or any other specific condition. Given the complexity of factors that influence cancer risk, healthcare professionals often recommend a broader evaluation, looking at lifestyle, genetic history, and other environmental exposures.

What to do if you have NHL and a history of PFAS exposure?

If you have been diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and suspect a link to PFAS, your first step should always be consulting a doctor who specializes in hematologic malignancies. Oncologists and hematopathologists can help determine whether your lymphoma subtype may be associated with chemical exposures. They can also guide you through standard treatment options like immunotherapy, chemotherapy, radiation, or targeted therapy, and may consider clinical trials.

Beyond medical consultations, thorough documentation of your exposure history can be valuable. This includes details like where you worked, whether you served in the military or firefighting units with AFFF use, and whether you lived in any area known for contaminated water supplies. Having blood test results that show elevated PFAS levels, along with occupational or residential records, can establish a clearer picture of your risk factors.

Staying informed about emerging findings may improve your ability to advocate for your own health. Ongoing research continues to refine our understanding of PFAS’s immunotoxic effects. A driving goal of many current studies is to identify which cancers are most strongly linked to PFAS and what “dose” thresholds might trigger problems. By following these developments, you and your medical team can better match new insights to your care strategy.

In addition, consider exploring mental health support or counseling services. A cancer diagnosis can be stressful, and worries about environmental contaminants often add another layer of concern. Community forums, nonprofit advocacy groups, and medical social workers can offer resources and coping strategies. Although uncertainties remain, keeping a proactive stance on your health—from seeking specialized clinicians to tracking scientific updates—can help you navigate the questions that arise from PFAS-related lymphoma concerns.

Are there legal options for PFAS-linked lymphoma cases?

Legal actions related to PFAS exposure have increased in recent years, particularly involving firefighting foam (AFFF). As of 2025, Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma is a recognized condition in the AFFF multidistrict litigation (MDL 2873), allowing those diagnosed with NHL to file a claim if they can document relevant exposure. While lawsuits cannot repair the health implications of PFAS contact, they may offer financial compensation to address medical costs and other losses.

Individuals from military backgrounds, firefighting units, or PFAS manufacturing plants are among the plaintiffs who argue that PFAS producers and distributors knew—or should have known—about the chemical’s risks. Settlements vary based on the severity of illness, documented exposure levels, and the likelihood of corporate negligence. In most scenarios, claimants work with legal teams to establish both medical evidence and a clear exposure pathway.

For those unsure whether they qualify for legal action, free case evaluations are often available. Legal support can guide you in determining whether your case fits into current PFAS litigation and whether it warrants filing a lawsuit. Even if a direct settlement or verdict is not guaranteed, many believe that by holding manufacturers accountable, public awareness of PFAS’s risks can increase, potentially driving stronger regulations.

We encourage individuals to gather evidence of exposure, consult medical professionals, and weigh legal counsel to determine whether this path makes sense for their specific situation. With multiple parties now under legal scrutiny, the window for claims might change over time. Being proactive can help ensure you do not miss critical deadlines or opportunities for compensation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How long do PFAS stay in the human body?

Studies show that PFAS can remain in the bloodstream for many years. Their strong chemical bonds make them slow to break down, increasing the likelihood of accumulation over time.

Does having elevated PFAS levels mean I will develop NHL?

Not necessarily. Elevated PFAS may weaken the immune system or create conditions that raise the risk of blood cancers, but many people with higher PFAS levels never develop lymphoma. Other factors such as genetics, lifestyle, and co-existing health conditions also contribute.

Can water treatment systems remove PFAS effectively?

Technologies like reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters can reduce PFAS in drinking water. However, effectiveness can vary by system design and maintenance frequency. For more details, see pfas water filter.

Are there specific symptoms of PFAS-linked NHL?

NHL symptoms, such as swollen lymph nodes, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss, may not differ whether related to PFAS or other factors. Anyone experiencing persistent symptoms should consult a medical professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Where can I find more information on current PFAS-related lawsuits?

Legal Claim Assistant offers resources and case evaluations. You can review recent cases and determine if you might be eligible to file a claim.