For decades, the U.S. military has been at the forefront of technological and chemical innovations. These advancements have undoubtedly strengthened national security. However, they have also led to the widespread use of chemicals that pose significant health risks to service members and their families.
Some of these substances are now linked to cancer, a harsh reality that has affected countless veterans and active-duty personnel. This article explores three prominent cancer-causing chemicals used by the U.S. military and their long-term impact on health.
1. Agent Orange
Agent Orange is perhaps one of the most infamous chemicals associated with military use, mainly due to its deployment during the Vietnam War. The herbicide was used to defoliate forests and eliminate cover for enemy troops. It contained dioxins, highly toxic compounds that have been linked to several types of cancer.
In the process, over 11 million gallons of Agent Orange were sprayed across 20 million acres of Vietnam’s landscape, Cleveland Clinic notes. However, the fallout wasn’t limited to the dense forests it was meant to destroy.
Nearly 3 million American soldiers stationed in Vietnam found themselves directly exposed to this chemical without knowing its long-term dangers. And it didn’t stop there. For millions of Vietnamese civilians living in the affected areas, exposure to the toxic dioxins in Agent Orange became a harsh reality. This exposure has led to health complications that still linger today.
What types of cancer are associated with Agent Orange exposure?
Research has shown that exposure to Agent Orange is linked to several types of cancer, including:
- Non-Hodgkin lymphoma
- Hodgkin lymphoma
- Chronic lymphocytic leukemia
- Soft tissue sarcoma
- Lung cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Multiple myeloma
As research revealed the link between Agent Orange exposure and cancer, Vietnam veterans began demanding justice for their suffering. In 1979, a class-action lawsuit was launched on behalf of 2.4 million veterans affected by the toxic herbicide, seeking compensation for their health conditions.
Following years of litigation, a settlement was finally achieved in 1984. Seven major chemical companies responsible for producing Agent Orange agreed to a $180 million payout to support the veterans and their families.
Yet, despite this settlement, countless veterans continue to bear the physical and emotional scars of their exposure to the dioxin-laden chemical. Many still struggle with its devastating health effects even decades after the war.
2. Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS)
PFAS, commonly known as “forever chemicals,” have been widely utilized in firefighting foams (AFFF) by the military for many years. Their high resistance to environmental degradation has resulted in significant contamination of water sources surrounding military installations.
The problem has been exacerbated by improper cleanup efforts following AFFF usage, allowing these harmful substances to seep into nearby water bodies and groundwater.
In recent years, extensive studies have assessed the level of PFAS contamination in drinking water across the United States. The results have consistently been alarming. According to a Statista report, PFAS were detected in tap water samples from 18 U.S. states between May and June 2023.
Notably, Monroe, New Jersey, exhibited the highest concentration of PFAS among the samples tested, with a staggering 82 parts per trillion (ppt). Major metropolitan areas such as Los Angeles, Austin, and Denver have also been found to have PFAS contamination. This puts millions of residents at risk of consuming potentially unsafe drinking water.
Which types of cancer are associated with PFAS exposure?
Research has suggested possible connections between exposure to PFAS and various cancers, including kidney and testicular cancer. There may also be potential links to additional cancers, such as breast and prostate cancer. Nevertheless, investigations are still underway to gain a clearer understanding of these relationships.
According to TorHoerman Law, studies have shown that PFAS can accumulate in the body over time, disrupting hormonal functions and affecting the immune system. AFFF used in training exercises and emergency responses on military bases has resulted in severe groundwater and soil contamination. This contamination puts both military personnel and nearby communities at risk of cancer.
In response to this alarming situation, a wave of legal action has emerged against government authorities and PFAS manufacturers. The AFFF foam lawsuit highlights the negligence of those responsible for properly cleaning up these harmful chemicals before they could leach into water sources.
Additionally, the lawsuit seeks compensation for individuals who have developed cancer as a direct result of exposure to these toxic substances. This highlights the urgent need for accountability and justice for those affected.
3. Benzene
Benzene is a chemical commonly found in fuels and industrial solvents. It has been a staple in various military applications, including jet fuel and hydraulic fluids. Benzene exposure occurs mainly through inhalation, posing a significant risk to service members working around fuel tanks, aircraft, and other machinery.
What cancers are linked to exposure to benzene?
Benzene is recognized as a human carcinogen, particularly linked to a higher likelihood of developing leukemia. This includes specific types such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Some studies also suggest potential links to other blood cancers.
Benzene also affects bone marrow, leading to blood disorders and an increased risk of developing leukemia. Service members exposed to high levels of benzene, particularly those in aviation and mechanics roles, are at greater risk of blood-related cancers.
Although this article focuses on the U.S. military, recent lawsuits against the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) highlight the dangers of benzene exposure.
Recently, the Ministry of Defence of the UK has faced criticism as numerous aircrew members have filed a lawsuit, as reported by The Guardian. They claim to have been exposed to benzene emissions from military helicopters that are still in operation.
Alarmingly, reports indicate that at least three former crew members have succumbed to cancer attributed to these toxic fumes.
Legal documents reveal that the MoD was aware of the risks associated with emissions from Sea King helicopters as early as 1999. However, they neglected to take necessary protective measures for the crew, allowing the helicopter to remain in service until 2018.
Currently, nearly 40 individuals affected by this situation are suing the MoD. Many more are expected to come forward, shedding light on a serious health crisis that has long been overlooked.
Overall, the sacrifices made by service members extend far beyond the battlefield. The exposure to cancer-causing chemicals like Agent Orange, PFAS, and benzene has left a lasting mark on the lives of many veterans and families. Understanding these risks and advocating for change can help prevent future harm and provide the necessary support to those who have already been affected.
If you or someone you know has been exposed to these chemicals during military service, consider reaching out to veteran support organizations. They can provide information on medical assistance and legal options.
