Burn pits have become a prominent topic in discussions about veteran health. Deployed in locations like Iraq and Afghanistan, the military used these open-air pits for waste management. With the use of open-air burn pits, there has been a significant increase in certain cancers among military veterans.
An estimated 3.5 million soldiers have been exposed to toxic smoke from open burn pits, leading to alarming health effects. For many years, these sites operated without regulation, government oversight, or testing, exposing soldiers to harmful substances and leading to adverse long-term health effects. Veterans affected by these conditions often face significant challenges in obtaining the necessary medical care, support, and compensation.
The health impacts of burn pit exposure can be severe, including respiratory issues, neurological disorders, and various forms of cancer. The long-term exposure to hazardous chemicals and toxins released through the burning of waste materials has left many veterans struggling with debilitating conditions. Despite the growing awareness of these health concerns, long-term studies on the effects of burn pits are still ongoing; thus, many veterans still encounter difficulties in receiving proper medical attention and benefits.
If you or someone you know is a veteran experiencing health issues related to burn pit exposure, it’s crucial to seek help and support. The National Veterans Homeless Support NVHS) offers resources and assistance for veterans in Central Florida, and we can help you get the support you need and deserve.
Understanding Burn Pits and Their Impact
What Are Burn Pits?
Burn pits are large open-air pits used to dispose of various waste materials by burning them. These pits were commonly employed, particularly in military settings, before alternative disposal methods such as incineration, recycling, waste segregation, and landfills became more widely implemented. The substances burned in these pits included a vast array of materials such as chemicals, paint, human waste, medical waste, electronic waste, wood, styrofoam, petroleum products, munitions, rubber, and other hazardous materials.
The use of burn pits has raised significant health and environmental concerns. When these waste materials are burned, they release a complex mixture of pollutants into the air, including particulate matter, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), dioxins, and heavy metals. Exposure to these pollutants can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory problems, cardiovascular diseases, and even cancer.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the detrimental effects of burn pits, prompting efforts to find and implement safer waste disposal alternatives. However, the legacy of burn pits continues to impact many individuals, underscoring the need for ongoing research and support for those exposed to these harmful practices.
Health Hazards Associated with Burn Pits
The practice of burning these toxic substances in open flames has led to significant airborne hazards. Military personnel who were exposed to the fumes from burn pits have reported various health issues. Immediate effects at the site of burn pits could include:
- Eye Irritation/Burning
- Cough and Throat Irritation
- Difficulty Breathing
- Skin Irritation and Rashes
Long-Term Health Effects
While short-term health issues are concerning, the long-term effects of burn pit exposure are still being studied. Long-term exposure to the toxins released by burn pits can lead to severe and chronic health conditions. Some of the potential long-term health effects include:
Asthma: There is an increased risk of developing asthma or worsening of pre-existing asthma due to the inhalation of airborne irritants and allergens. Asthma is a chronic condition that can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and require ongoing medical treatment.
Rhinitis and Sinus Issues: Chronic inflammation of the nasal passages and sinuses, known as rhinitis, can result from prolonged exposure to burn pit emissions. This condition can cause symptoms such as nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, and sinus pressure.
Airway Disease: Conditions affecting the airways, such as bronchitis, can develop from prolonged exposure to irritants. Bronchitis is characterized by inflammation of the bronchial tubes, leading to coughing, mucus production, and difficulty breathing.
Chronic Lung Disease: Long-term damage to the lungs can potentially lead to conditions like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is a progressive disease that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis, causing airflow blockage and breathing-related problems.
Hypertension: Elevated blood pressure, or hypertension, can result from chronic exposure to stressors and toxic substances. Hypertension can lead to cardiovascular issues such as heart disease, stroke, and heart failure.
Respiratory and Cardiovascular System Damage: Burn pit exposure can broadly impact both the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Respiratory damage can result in chronic lung conditions, while cardiovascular system damage can increase the risk of heart attacks and other related issues.
Gastrointestinal Tract and Internal Organ Damage: Ingesting or absorbing toxic substances can harm internal organs and the digestive system, leading to conditions such as liver and kidney damage and gastrointestinal disorders.
Cancer Risks: Prolonged exposure to carcinogenic substances released by burn pits can increase the risk of various types of cancer. The specific types of cancer that may be associated with burn pit exposure are still being studied, but presumptive cancers include:
- Brain, head, neck
- Nervous system cancers
- Gastrointestinal cancers
- Kidney cancers
- Lymphomas
- Melanoma
- Pancreatic cancers
- Reproductive cancers
- Respiratory cancers.
Current Status and Efforts
The Department of Defense has taken steps to address the issue by closing many burn pits and replacing them with safer waste management methods. However, despite these efforts, there are still nearly 300 identified burn pits around the world, predominantly located in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Kuwait. Continued research and monitoring are needed to understand the long-term impacts of burn pit exposure fully and, therefore, appropriately and effectively treat and compensate veterans who were exposed to toxic burn pit omissions.
Initiatives for Veterans
PACT Act
In April 2022, the VA officially recognized the connection between burn pit exposure and nine rare respiratory cancers, now treated as service-connected disabilities. Burn pits have also been linked to various other serious health conditions, impacting millions of veterans who served in affected areas. The PACT Act, expands healthcare benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits. This legislation significantly broadens the scope of recognized conditions and simplifies eligibility for veterans’ benefits.
Resources for Health Assistance
Register at Burn Pits 360
Burn Pits 360 has created an independent registry for eligible veterans and active service members to document exposures, report health issues and update their health status. This registry aims to provide vital resources and support for unmet needs related to burn pit exposures.
Apply for VA Healthcare
Veterans can apply for VA healthcare for both physical and mental health conditions. The PACT Act has expanded VA healthcare benefits to include veterans exposed to toxins from burn pits, Agent Orange, and other hazardous substances.
NVHS Programs and Support
NVHS is dedicated to ending veteran homelessness in Central Florida. NVHS uses proactive, intervention-based programs that involve reaching out to homeless veterans directly and providing assistance. Through street outreach, prevention, PTSD support, and transitional housing, NVHS helps transform the lives of those who have given so much but have been forgotten in America.
How You Can Help
Consider donating or volunteering to support NVHS in its mission to assist veterans. Your contribution can make a significant difference in the lives of veterans who have served our country and are now facing challenging health issues due to burn pit exposure and other health conditions. By understanding the impact of burn pits and providing the needed support and resources, we can help our veterans lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.
