Particularly with regard to open-air fire pits, I draw your attention to the urgent health issues resulting from environmental exposures during military operations. Linked to major long-term health problems among veterans, these burn pits used for garbage disposal in several military theaters have been connected.
Recent studies have established a correlation between prolonged deployment to bases with active burn pits and an increased risk of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. For instance, research indicates that for every 100 days of burn pit exposure, there is a 1% increased risk for asthma and a 4% increased risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) among veterans.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recognized these concerns and established the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry to monitor and study the health effects of such exposures. However, many veterans continue to struggle with related illnesses, and the need for comprehensive support and policy intervention remains critical.
In light of these findings, I respectfully urge you to consider the following actions:
- Enhanced Medical Surveillance and Research: Allocate resources to conduct longitudinal studies on the health impacts of environmental exposures, ensuring early detection and intervention for affected service members.
- Improved Healthcare Access: Expand healthcare services for veterans exhibiting symptoms associated with environmental exposures, including specialized clinics and expedited claims processing.
- Policy Reforms: Enact legislation that mandates safer waste disposal practices during deployments to prevent future health risks, and establish clear guidelines for exposure assessment and documentation.
- Veteran Education and Outreach: Implement programs to inform veterans about potential health risks related to environmental exposures and encourage participation in health registries and monitoring programs.
The Honoring our PACT Act of 2022 represents a significant step toward addressing these issues by expanding healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxic substances. Continued support and implementation of such legislation are vital to safeguarding the health and well-being of our service members.
Our nation’s strength is built upon the sacrifices of its service members. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that those who have served are protected from preventable health hazards and receive the care they deserve.