Study Shows Health Risks for Veterans from Burn Pit Exposure
Recent research indicates that prolonged deployments to military bases with burn pits have placed veterans of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars at a higher risk for respiratory ailments from burn pit exposure. This study, utilizing newly declassified data, was published by JAMA Network Open and involved the analysis of health records from 459,381 military veterans. These findings highlight small but significant increases in the risk of asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and hypertension.
Key Findings from the Latest Research
The research is a crucial step in understanding the health outcomes linked to exposures during military service, according to the authors—a group of scholars from various universities. Although the risk increases are modest, the implications are vast, potentially affecting several million veterans who were exposed to burn pits during their service.
Historical Context and Veteran Concerns
For many years, burn pits were a common fixture at numerous combat outposts in Iraq and Afghanistan, and many in the military community have long suspected that these pits were detrimental to soldiers’ health. However, U.S. Department of Defense and Department of Veterans Affairs officials had initially denied any correlation between exposure to burn pits and subsequent health issues. This topic has consistently been a contentious issue in Washington, leading to numerous congressional hearings aimed at improving care for affected veterans.
Legislative Changes and Expanded Benefits for Burn Pit Exposure
A significant legislative change occurred in 2022 when Congress passed a bill that broadened healthcare and disability benefits for veterans affected by exposure to toxic burn pits, marking a pivotal shift in policy and recognition of the risks associated with burn pits.
Challenges and Advances in Research
Despite ongoing public concern, research into the long-term health effects of burn pit exposure has been scarce. One challenge has been isolating burn pit exposure from other environmental hazards that could also contribute to respiratory diseases. The recent study leverages a large veteran sample and detailed deployment records to conduct a more precise analysis, making it one of the most comprehensive studies on this issue to date.
Tucker Disability Law: Helping Veterans Nationwide
Veterans who have applied for disability and had their claim denied, have a right to file an appeal.
In addition, Veterans with preexisting conditions that are made worse by their time in service, or who develop service-connected disabilities following their time in the military, may also apply for benefits. If you feel that you qualify for a claim, don’t delay, contact us immediately.
Or maybe you’re one of the thousands of veterans who are frustrated because they feel that they have been underrated by the VA, or that upcoming changes will cause you to be underrated.
Tucker Disability Law has helped veterans in every kind of situation for over 30+ years and we can help you too. Contact us so that we can have a discussion about your specific situation and make sure you’re getting the benefits you deserve. If you have any condition that is likely related to burn pit exposure, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to help you with your claim, whether that involves filing an initial claim or an appealing one that’s been denied.
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