The military has long been a cornerstone of national defense, with service members training tirelessly to protect the country. However, behind the proud history of military service lies a disturbing reality—many veterans and active-duty service members have been unknowingly exposed to harmful chemicals that pose serious health risks. Among these chemicals are per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), a group of toxic substances widely used in military firefighting foam. Unfortunately, these substances have found their way into the environment surrounding military bases, leading to an alarming increase in military service related cancer diagnoses.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a family of synthetic chemicals that are highly resistant to water, heat, and oil. They were first introduced in the 1950s and have since been used in various applications, including firefighting foam, waterproof clothing, non-stick cookware, and stain-resistant carpets. The U.S. military, in particular, has used PFAS-containing firefighting foam (Aqueous Film-Forming Foam, or AFFF) in training exercises, fire drills, and emergency response operations at military bases.
While these chemicals were praised for their effectiveness, they are now known to be highly persistent in the environment and the human body. Due to this trait, they are sometimes called “forever chemicals.” Once PFAS enter the soil, water, or air, they do not break down and can accumulate over time. The impact of this accumulation on both the environment and human health has been catastrophic, particularly for those living or working near military installations.
How PFAS Exposure Occurred at Military Bases
For decades, military personnel used firefighting foam during training exercises without fully understanding the potential dangers of PFAS. AFFF, designed to suppress dangerous fires in high-risk environments, was sprayed freely during routine exercises. However, what began as a safety measure for service members soon became a widespread environmental issue. Over time, large quantities of PFAS seeped into the ground, contaminating the soil and water sources surrounding military bases. As these chemicals were washed away or absorbed by the land, they found their way into the food and drinking water consumed by both military personnel and nearby communities.
As more studies connected PFAS to a wide range of major health issues, such as kidney cancer, liver disease, and thyroid problems, the long-term effects of exposure became clearer. Unfortunately, many veterans were unaware of the risks associated with their training and work environments, only discovering the connection between PFAS and cancer years or even decades later.
The Rising Link Between PFAS and Military Service-Related Cancer
As studies on PFAS poisoning have grown, so has our knowledge of how it is linked to cancer. To put it simply, being around PFAS for a long time can make getting some kinds of cancer much more likely. Veterans and active military members who worked in or near contaminated places for years are now being told they have diseases they didn’t expect. PFAS exposure has been strongly linked to kidney and testicular cancers in particular. However, a new study has added bladder and prostate cancer to this list as well.
The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is aware of this growing concern and is trying to help veterans who are being affected. The VA has increased its coverage for cancers related to military service, including those linked to PFAS. This means that veterans can get money for health problems that happened while they were in the military. To get compensation, however, it is still hard for many soldiers because they don’t know about the risks or have trouble showing that their cancer is directly linked to their service.
The Long-Term Environmental and Health Consequences
The contamination of military bases with PFAS has far-reaching consequences, not just for veterans but for entire communities. Drinking water supplies, including wells and local water sources, have become heavily contaminated, placing civilians at risk. As these chemicals travel through water systems, they can affect not only those living near military bases but also those located miles away.
The health consequences are significant. In addition to the development of cancer, PFAS exposure is associated with a range of other diseases, including high cholesterol, immune system disruption, and developmental delays in children. The environmental contamination is so widespread that many military bases now face expensive clean-up efforts that could take decades to resolve.
Moving Forward: The Need for Accountability and Action
It’s clear that PFAS contamination on military bases has left a toxic legacy. The military and the government need to move right away to fix the damage these chemicals have caused. Efforts to restrict the use of PFAS in firefighting foam and other military applications are a step in the right direction, but it is equally important to address the consequences of past exposure. Veterans suffering from military service-related cancer should not have to fight for recognition and compensation, and more research should be dedicated to understanding the full scope of PFAS exposure on military bases.
In conclusion, the toxic legacy of PFAS contamination at military bases has left an indelible mark on the health of veterans and their families. As we continue to uncover the devastating effects of these chemicals, it is imperative that action is taken to ensure the safety and well-being of those who serve our country. The fight for justice and accountability is far from over, but with greater awareness, we can work toward a healthier, safer future for all.
