CINXE.COM
Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures - Public Health
<!doctype html> <html lang="en"> <head> <!-- START: META DATA --> <meta charset="utf-8"> <meta name="author" content="US Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans Health Administration" /> <meta name="dcterms.subject" content="Information about potential exposure to toxins from burn pits, possible health-related problems and VA benefits" /> <meta name="keywords" content="health, benefit, effect, exposure, hazard, waste, trash, smoke, burn pit, burn pits, health problem, health effects" /> <meta name="description" content="Information about potential exposure to toxins from burn pits during military service, possible health-related problems and VA benefits." /> <meta name="dcterms.created" content="12/13/2013"> <meta name="dcterms.dateAccepted" content="20241015" /> <meta name="dcterms.type" content="General Information" /> <meta http-equiv="X-UA-Compatible" content="IE=edge" /> <!-- END: Meta tags for Twitter cards --> <meta name="viewport" content="width=device-width, initial-scale=1.0" /> <!-- END: META DATA --> <!-- Bootstrap --> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/favicon.ico" media="all" rel="shortcut icon" type="image/x-icon"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/bootstrap.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/layout.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"><!-- Different Stylesheet for the Homepage --> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/accessibleMegaMenu.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/health.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/slider.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/slide-menu-custom.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/tabs.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/modal.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <link href="https://cdn.eo.va.gov/vendor/fa5/current/css/all.css" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"/> <!-- HTML5 Shim and Respond.js IE8 support of HTML5 elements and media queries --> <!-- WARNING: Respond.js doesn't work if you view the page via file:// --> <!--[if lt IE 9]> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/html5shiv.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/respond.min.js"></script> <![endif]--> <!--[if IE]> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/ie9all.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <![endif]--> <!--[if IE 8]> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/ie8.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <![endif]--> <!--[if IE 7]> <link href="/va_files/2014/responsive/styles/ie7.css" media="all" rel="stylesheet" type="text/css"> <![endif]--> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/jquery-1-10-2.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/swipe-min.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/scrollable.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/left-nav.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/tabs-library.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/tabs-accord.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/accessible2.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/custom-feature.js"></script> <script src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/externalLinks.js" type="text/javascript"></script> <script async type="text/javascript" src="https://dap.digitalgov.gov/Universal-Federated-Analytics-Min.js?agency=VA&yt=1&pga4=G-Y8BBTRX2M1" id="_fed_an_ua_tag"></script> <style type="text/css">.brand-consolidation-deprecated { display: none !important; } </style> <link rel="stylesheet" href="https://prod-va-gov-assets.s3-us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/generated/styleConsolidated.css" /> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://prod-va-gov-assets.s3-us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/generated/polyfills.entry.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://prod-va-gov-assets.s3-us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/generated/vendor.entry.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://prod-va-gov-assets.s3-us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/generated/proxy-rewrite.entry.js"></script> <script type="text/javascript" src="https://prod-va-gov-assets.s3-us-gov-west-1.amazonaws.com/js/vendor/uswds.min.js"></script> <!-- Google Tag Manager --> <script>(function(w,d,s,l,i){w[l]=w[l]||[];w[l].push({'gtm.start': new Date().getTime(),event:'gtm.js'});var f=d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0], j=d.createElement(s),dl=l!='dataLayer'?'&l='+l:'';j.async=true;j.src= 'https://www.googletagmanager.com/gtm.js?id='+i+dl+ '>m_auth=EVfhr6k93Fl16jzaZVCafQ>m_preview=env-2>m_cookies_win=x';f.parentNode.insertBefore(j,f); })(window,document,'script','dataLayer','GTM-WZ6MXMD');</script> <!-- End Google Tag Manager --> <!-- consolidation_4c8f2cfe1e1c427c5b14529d202ee961 --> <meta property="og:locale" content="en_US" /> <meta property="og:type" content="website" /> <meta content="https://www.va.gov/img/design/logo/va-og-image.png" property="og:image" /> <meta content="VA.gov | Veterans Affairs" property="og:title"> <meta content="VA.gov | Veterans Affairs" name="twitter:title"> <meta name="twitter:card" content="Summary" /> <meta name="twitter:site" content="@DeptVetAffairs" /> <meta content="Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you鈥檝e earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member鈥攍ike health care, disability, education, and more." property="og:description" /> <meta content="Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you鈥檝e earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member鈥攍ike health care, disability, education, and more." name="twitter:description" /> <meta content="Apply for and manage the VA benefits and services you鈥檝e earned as a Veteran, Servicemember, or family member鈥攍ike health care, disability, education, and more." name="description" /> <meta name="twitter:image" content="https://www.va.gov/img/design/logo/va-og-twitter-image.png" /> <style type="text/css" media="screen,print"> @import url(/PUBLICHEALTH/styles/site-styles.css); </style> <style type="text/css" media="screen,print"> @import url(/TS_SHARED/2014/responsive/va_administrations/VHA/styles/site-styles.css); </style> <script type="text/javascript"> var vaSurvey = 'mcenter'; var vaSiteFolder = 'PUBLICHEALTH'; </script> <script type="text/javascript" src="/TS_SHARED/2014/responsive/va_administrations/VHA/scripts/analytics-po.js"></script> <title>Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures - Public Health</title> <!--VHA SHARETHIS WIDGET REMOVED JANUARY 2017 --> </head> <body> <div id="skiplink"> <a href="#main-content" >skip to page content</a></div> <!-- BACK GROUND WRAPPER EFFECTS --> <div id="main"> <div id="bg-main"> <div id="bg-middle-effect"> <div class="container" id="main-wrap"> <header class="row main-header-wrap"> <div class="csshide"> Attention A T users. To access the menus on this page please perform the following steps. 1. Please switch auto forms mode to off. 2. Hit enter to expand a main menu option (Health, Benefits, etc). 3. To enter and activate the submenu links, hit the down arrow. You will now be able to tab or arrow up or down through the submenu options to access/activate the submenu links. </div> <div class="main-header clearfix"> <!-- #Top tab--> <div id="locator-mobile"> <div class="va-crisis-line"> <div class="va-flex"> <button data-show="#modal-crisisline" class="va-crisis-line-button va-overlay-trigger"> <span class="va-flex"> <span class="vcl"></span>Get help from Veterans Crisis Line </span> </button> </div> </div> <div id="mainLocator-btn">Locator</div> <div id="mainContact-btn">Contact</div> <div class="search-btn" id="search-btn">Search</div> <div id="main-contact"> <div class="title">Contact Us</div> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#explore-our-faqs-and-other-res">FAQs</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#contact-us-online-through-ask-">Ask a Question</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#call-us">Toll Free Numbers</a></p> </div> <div id="main-locator"> <div class="title">Locator</div> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=1">Hospitals and Clinics</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter_flsh.asp">Vet Centers</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=3">Regional Benefits Offices</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/contact_rlc_info.asp">Regional Loan Centers</a></p> <p><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division_flsh.asp?dnum=4 ">Cemetery Locations</a></p> </div> </div> <!-- end--> <!-- # social and search --> <div class="social-n-search"> <div class="va-crisis-line"> <div class="va-flex"> <button data-show="#modal-crisisline" class="va-crisis-line-button va-overlay-trigger"> <span class="va-flex"> <span class="vcl"></span>Get help from Veterans Crisis Line </span> </button> </div> </div> <div class="search-btn">Search</div> <div id="main-search"> <!-- SEARCH --> <div id="search-area"> <form id="searchForm" method="GET" action="https://www.va.gov/search/"> <!-- do not insert line breaks in the div tag below --> <div id="mainSearchForm"><label for="searchtxt" class="positionsearch">Enter your search text</label><input name="query" type="text" id="searchtxt" size="5" title="Enter your search text" value="" /><input name="t" type="hidden" value="false" /><label class="positionsearch" for="edit-submit">Button to start search</label><input id="edit-submit" class="form-submit" type="image" src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/main-search-button.png" alt="Click here to submit your search" name="submit"></div> </form> </div> <!-- END SEARCH --> </div> <!-- End main site search --> <div id="main-social-wrapper"> <div class="social-wrapper-508"> <div id="main-secondary-nav"> <ul class="secondary-nav"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/site_map.htm" title="Site Map A-Z">site map [a-z]</a></li> </ul> </div><!--End main secondary nav --> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's Email Directory" href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USVA/subscriber/new/"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-email.png" alt="Email icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Facebook page" href="https://www.facebook.com/VeteransAffairs"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-fb.png" alt="Facebook icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Twitter account" href="https://www.twitter.com/DeptVetAffairs/"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-twitter.png" alt="Twitter icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA News" href="https://news.va.gov"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-blog.png" alt="Blog icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Flickr account" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/VeteransAffairs/"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-flickr.png" alt="Flickr icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Youtube account" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/DeptVetAffairs"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-youtube.png" alt="Youtube icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Instagram account" href="https://www.instagram.com/deptvetaffairs/"><img src="https://www.va.gov/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-instagram.png" alt="Instagram icon"></a></div> </div><!-- End social-wrapper-508 --> </div><!--End main social wrapper --> </div> <!-- # social and search --> <!-- # logo --> <div id="main-logo"> <a href="https://www.va.gov" title="Go to VA.gov" class="logo"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/header-logo.png" alt="Official seal of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs"></a> </div> <!-- / logo --> </div> <!-- ************************************** START MAIN NAVIGATION ********************************************* --> <!-- main navigation --> <nav id="main-nav" class="main-nav"> <div id="menu-btn" class="menu-btn"> <div class="rt-menu"><span>More VA</span></div> </div> <!-- # navigation --> <div id="nav-wrap"> <b id="close-nav"></b> <div class="menu-btn" id="menu-btn-close"> <div class="rt-menu"><span>More VA</span></div> </div> <div id="nav-container" class="nav-container-close"> <ol class="accessible-megamenu"> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"> <!-- Begin Heathcare Dropdown --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"> <a href="https://www.va.gov/health" aria-haspopup="true">Health</a></span> <div class="cols-1 firstcol accessible-megamenu-panel"> <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <ol> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/">Health Care Information</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/topics/">A-Z Health Topic Finder</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.myhealth.va.gov/">My Health<strong><em>e</em></strong>Vet</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/refill-track-prescriptions">Prescriptions Refills</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/schedule-view-va-appointments">Schedule a VA Appointment</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/">Veterans Crisis Line</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/">Mental Health</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ptsd.va.gov/">PTSD</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/">Public Health</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/communitycare/">Community Care</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.caregiver.va.gov/">Caregiver Support </a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/choosing-between-urgent-and-emergency-care/">Urgent Care </a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li> <!-- End Health Dropdown --> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"> <!-- Begin Benefits Dropdown --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"> <a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/" aria-haspopup="true">Benefits</a></span> <div class="cols-1 accessible-megamenu-panel"> <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <ol> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/">General Benefits Information</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/compensation/">Disability Compensation</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/pension/">Pension</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/">GI Bill <span class="registeredmark">®</span></a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/" >Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill/survivor_dependent_assistance.asp">Dependents' Educational Assistance</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/persona/dependent_survivor.asp">Survivor Benefits</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/">Home Loans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/insurance/">Life Insurance</a></li> <li><a href="https://benefits.va.gov/benefits/appeals.asp">Appeals Modernization</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li> <!-- End Benefits Dropdown Dropdown --> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"> <!-- Begin Burials and Memorials Dropdown --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"> <a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/" aria-haspopup="true">Burials & Memorials</a></span> <div class="cols-1 accessible-megamenu-panel" > <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <ol> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/">Cemetery Services</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/burial_benefits/">Burials</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/hmm/">Headstones Markers & Medallions</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/pmc.asp">Presidential Memorial Certificates</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/cems/listcem.asp">Cemeteries</a></li> <li><a href="https://gravelocator.cem.va.gov/">Nationwide Gravesite Locator</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/burial_benefits/burial_flags.asp">Burial Flags</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/burial_benefits/">Burial Allowance</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li> <!-- EndBurials and Memorials Dropdown --> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"> <!-- Begin About VA --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing2_about.htm" aria-haspopup="true">About VA</a></span> <div class="cols-2 fifthtolast accessible-megamenu-panel"> <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <span class="mega-hdr-sub-text"><span class="panelheader">Inside VA</span></span> <ol class="accessible-megamenu-lvl3"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/bios/secva.asp">Secretary of VA</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/bios/">Executive Biographies</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing_organizations.htm">Organizations</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/about_va/vahistory.asp">History</a></li> </ol> </li> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <span class="mega-hdr-sub-text"><span class="panelheader">Budget and Performance</span></span> <ol class="accessible-megamenu-lvl3"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/performance/">VA Plans, Budget, & Performance</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/finance/afr/index.asp">Agency Financial Report (AFR)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/budget/products.asp">Budget Submission</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/recovery/">Recovery Act</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li><!-- End About VA --> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"><!-- Begin Resources --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing_organizations.htm" aria-haspopup="true" aria-label="VA Resources">Resources</a></span> <div class="cols-1 accessible-megamenu-panel"> <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <ol> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing2_business.htm">Business</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/oca/index.asp" >Congressional Affairs</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/jobs/">Jobs</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/benefits_book.asp">Benefits Booklet</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/vetdata/">Data & Statistics</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/data/">VA Open Data</a></li> <li><a href="https://mobile.va.gov/appstore/"> VA App Store</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nrd.gov/">National Resource Directory</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/ogc/recognizedvsos.asp">Veteran Service Organizations</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/accountability/">Office of Accountability & Whistleblower Protection</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/transparency/">Transparency</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li><!-- End Resources --> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"> <span class="mega-hdr-text"><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing2_media_room.htm" aria-haspopup="true">Media Room</a></span> <div class="cols-3 thirdtolast accessible-megamenu-panel"> <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <span class="mega-hdr-sub-text"><span class="panelheader">Inside the Media Room</span></span> <ol class="accessible-megamenu-lvl3"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/">Public Affairs</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/pressrel/">News Releases</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/speeches/">Speeches</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/DeptVetAffairs">Videos</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/">Publications</a></li> </ol> </li> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <span class="mega-hdr-sub-text"><span class="panelheader">National Observances</span></span> <ol class="accessible-megamenu-lvl3"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/vetsday/">Veterans Day</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/speceven/memday/">Memorial Day</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/publications/celebrate_americas_freedoms.asp">Celebrating America's Freedoms</a></li> </ol> </li> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <span class="mega-hdr-sub-text"><span class="panelheader">Special Events</span></span> <ol class="accessible-megamenu-lvl3"> <li><a href="https://www.blogs.va.gov/nvspse/">Adaptive Sports Program</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.blogs.va.gov/nvspse/national-veterans-creative-arts-festival/">Creative Arts Festival</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.blogs.va.gov/nvspse/national-veterans-golden-age-games/">Golden Age Games</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.blogs.va.gov/nvspse/national-veterans-summer-sports-clinic/">Summer Sports Clinic</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.veteransgolfclinic.org/">Training - Exposure - Experience (TEE) Tournament</a></li> <li><a href="https://wheelchairgames.org/">Wheelchair Games</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.wintersportsclinic.org/">Winter Sports Clinic</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item"><!-- Begin Locations --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing2_locations.htm" aria-haspopup="true">Locations</a></span> <div class="cols-1 secondtolast accessible-megamenu-panel" > <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <ol> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division.asp?dnum=1&isFlash=0">Hospitals & Clinics</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/vetcenter.asp?isFlash=0">Vet Centers</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division.asp?dnum=3&isFlash=0">Regional Benefits Offices</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/homeloans/contact_rlc_info.asp">Regional Loan Centers</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/directory/guide/division.asp?dnum=4&isFlash=0">Cemetery Locations</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li><!-- End Locations --> <li class="accessible-megamenu-top-nav-item last"><!-- Begin Contact Us --> <span class="mega-hdr-text"><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/" aria-haspopup="true">Contact Us</a></span> <div class="cols-1 last accessible-megamenu-panel" > <ol> <li class="accessible-megamenu-panel-group"> <ol> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#explore-our-faqs-and-other-res">FAQs</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#contact-us-online-through-ask-">Ask a Question</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/contact-us/#call-us">Toll Free Numbers</a></li> </ol> </li> </ol> </div> </li><!-- End Contact Us --> </ol> </div> </div> <!-- /navigation --> </nav> <!-- main navigation --><!-- ************************************** END MAIN NAVIGTATION ********************************************* --> </header> <section class="row" id="container"> <div id="mainContentWrapper"> <a id="content-wrapper"></a> <!-- For Skip Nav --> <!-- ********** START BREADCRUMBS ********** --> <div id="breadCrumbPath"> <a href="https://www.va.gov/">VA</a> » <a href="https://www.va.gov/health">Health Care</a> » <a href="/index.asp">Public Health</a> » <a href='/PUBLICHEALTH/exposures/index.asp'>Military Exposures</a> » Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures </div><!--end breadCrumbPath--> <!-- ********** END BREADCRUMBS ********** --> <!-- ********** START SITE TITLE ********** --> <h1 id="site-title">Public Health</h1> <!-- ********** END SITE TITLE ********** --> </div> <!--End main content wrapper --> <!-- Left Container --> <div class="col-md-3" id="left-bar-wrap" > <div class="fill"> <!-- *************** START LEFT NAVIGATION MENU ***************** --> <!-- ********** START LEFT NAV MENU CODE ********** --> <div id="leftNavContainer" class="clearfix"> <!-- ********** START LEFT NAVIGATION *************** --> <div class="sitemap" id="sitemapup"><span>Menu</span></div> <div id="leftNavWrap"> <div id="leftNav" class="lftNavhide"> <div class="sitemap" ><span>Menu</span></div> <ul class="accordion" style="margin-left:0px; padding-top:0px;"> <!-- ********** START PROGRAM OFFICE NAV ************ --> <li><a href="#" title="Public Health"><span></span>Public Health</a> <ul class="sub-menu"> <li><a href="/index.asp" title="Public Health Home">Public Health Home</a></li> <li><a href="#" title="Military Exposures"><span></span>Military Exposures</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/index.asp" title="Military Exposures Home">Military Exposures Home</a></li> <li><a href="#" title="4 Ways to Find Exposures"><span></span>4 Ways to Find Exposures</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/health-concerns.asp" title="Related Health Concerns">Related Health Concerns</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/wars-operations/index.asp" title="Wars & Operations">Wars & Operations</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/categories/index.asp" title="Exposure Categories">Exposure Categories</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/topics/index.asp" title="A-Z Index">A-Z Index</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Agent Orange"><span></span>Agent Orange</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/index.asp" title="Agent Orange Home">Agent Orange Home</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/basics.asp" title="Facts about Herbicides">Facts about Herbicides</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/conditions/index.asp" title="Veterans' Diseases">Veterans' Diseases</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/birth-defects/index.asp" title="Birth Defects">Birth Defects</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/benefits/index.asp" title="Benefits">Benefits</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/locations/index.asp" title="Exposure Locations">Exposure Locations</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/providers/index.asp" title="Provider Resources">Provider Resources</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/research-studies.asp" title="Research Studies">Research Studies</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/agentorange/publications/index.asp" title="Publications & Reports">Publications & Reports</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Depleted Uranium"><span></span>Depleted Uranium</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/depleted_uranium/index1.asp" title="Depleted Uranium Home">Depleted Uranium Home</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/depleted_uranium/DU_Exposure.asp" title="DU Exposure">DU Exposure</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/depleted_uranium/health_concerns.asp" title="Health Concerns">Health Concerns</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/depleted_uranium/DU_Screening.asp" title="DU Screening">DU Screening</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/depleted_uranium/Health_care_providers.asp" title="Health Care Providers">Health Care Providers</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Embedded Fragments"><span></span>Embedded Fragments</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/toxic_fragments/index.asp" title="Home">Home</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/toxic_fragments/surv_center.asp" title="Surveillance">Surveillance</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/toxic_fragments/Eligibility.asp" title="Eligibility">Eligibility</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/toxic_fragments/Fragment_Removal.asp" title="Fragment Removal">Fragment Removal</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses"><span></span>Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/index.asp" title="Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses Home">Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses Home</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/military-service.asp" title="Gulf War Service">Gulf War Service</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/medically-unexplained-illness.asp" title="Medically Unexplained Illnesses">Medically Unexplained Illnesses</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/infectious_diseases.asp" title="Infectious Diseases">Infectious Diseases</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/benefits/index.asp" title="Benefits">Benefits</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/sources/index.asp" title="Exposures during Gulf War">Exposures during Gulf War</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/providers/index.asp" title="Provider Resources">Provider Resources</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/research.asp" title="Research Studies">Research Studies</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/publications/index.asp" title="Publications & Reports">Publications & Reports</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/index.asp" title="Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits"><span></span>Airborne Hazards and Burn Pits</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/index.asp" title="Airborne Hazards Home">Airborne Hazards Home</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp" title="Registry">Registry</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/research.asp" title="Research">Research</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/get-care.asp" title="How to Get Care">How to Get Care</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/for-providers.asp" title="Health Care Providers">Health Care Providers</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/faqs.asp" title="FAQs">FAQs</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/reports.asp" title="Reports">Reports</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/participants.asp" title="Participants">Participants</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Radiation"><span></span>Radiation</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/index.asp" title="Radiation Home">Radiation Home</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/basics.asp" title="Facts about Radiation">Facts about Radiation</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/diseases.asp" title="Related Diseases">Related Diseases</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/benefits/index.asp" title="Benefits">Benefits</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/sources/index.asp" title="Exposure during Service">Exposure during Service</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/providers/index.asp" title="Provider Resources">Provider Resources</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/research.asp" title="Research Studies">Research Studies</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/radiation/publications/index.asp" title="Publications">Publications</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Benefits"><span></span>Benefits</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposures/benefits/index.asp" title="Benefits Overview">Benefits Overview</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/benefits/registry-evaluation.asp" title="Health Registry Evaluation">Health Registry Evaluation</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/benefits/health-care.asp" title="Health Care">Health Care</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="/exposures/providers/index.asp" title="Provider Resources">Provider Resources</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/research-studies.asp" title="Research Studies">Research Studies</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/publications/index.asp" title="Publications & Reports">Publications & Reports</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="VET-HOME"><span></span>VET-HOME</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/VET-HOME/index.asp" title="VET-HOME Overview">VET-HOME Overview</a></li> <li><a href="/VET-HOME/Understanding_VET-HOME.asp" title="Understanding VET-HOME">Understanding VET-HOME</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Diseases & Conditions"><span></span>Diseases & Conditions</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/diseases-conditions.asp" title="Diseases & Conditions Index">Diseases & Conditions Index</a></li> <li><a href="/n-coronavirus/index.asp" title="Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)">Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19)</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/health-concerns.asp" title="Military Exposure Related Health Concerns">Military Exposure Related Health Concerns</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/index.asp" title="Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses">Gulf War Veterans' Illnesses</a></li> <li><a href="#" title="Influenza (Flu)"><span></span>Influenza (Flu)</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/flu/index.asp" title="Influenza (Flu) Home">Influenza (Flu) Home</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/about.asp" title="About Flu">About Flu</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/vaccination/index.asp" title="Vaccination">Vaccination</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/prevention/index.asp" title="Prevent Flu">Prevent Flu</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/treatment/index.asp" title="Treatment">Treatment</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/materials/index.asp" title="Tools & Materials">Tools & Materials</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/professionals/index.asp" title="For Health Professionals">For Health Professionals</a></li> <li><a href="/flu/pandemic/index.asp" title="Pandemic Flu">Pandemic Flu</a></li> </ul> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Health & Wellness"><span></span>Health & Wellness</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/health-wellness.asp" title="Health & Wellness Index">Health & Wellness Index</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/quit-tobacco/" title="Tobacco and Health">Tobacco and Health</a></li> <li><a href="/vaccines.asp" title="Vaccines and Immunizations">Vaccines and Immunizations</a></li> <li><a href="#" title="Infection: Don't Pass It On"><span></span>Infection: Don't Pass It On</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn/index.asp" title="Infection: Don't Pass It On Home">Infection: Don't Pass It On Home</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn/hand-cleaning.asp" title="Hand Cleaning">Hand Cleaning</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn/Materials.asp" title="Materials">Materials</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn/womens-health-guide/index.asp" title="Women's Health Guide">Women's Health Guide</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn/mens-health-guide/index.asp" title="Men鈥檚 Health Guide">Men鈥檚 Health Guide</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/InfectionDontPassItOn/resources.asp" title="Resources & References">Resources & References</a></li> </ul> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Studies & Data"><span></span>Studies & Data</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/studies-data.asp" title="Studies & Data Index">Studies & Data Index</a></li> <li><a href="#" title="Epidemiology"><span></span>Epidemiology</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/epidemiology/index.asp" title="Epidemiology Home">Epidemiology Home</a></li> <li><a href="/epidemiology/studies/index.asp" title="Research Studies">Research Studies</a></li> <li><a href="/epidemiology/publications.asp" title="Publications List">Publications List</a></li> <li><a href="/epidemiology/reports/index.asp" title="Reports">Reports</a></li> </ul> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Patient Treatment"><span></span>Patient Treatment</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/patient-treatment.asp" title="Patient Treatment Index">Patient Treatment Index</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Exposure Research"><span></span>Exposure Research</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/exposureresearch/index.asp" title="Research (PACT Act)">Research (PACT Act)</a></li> <li><a href="/exposureresearch/studies.asp" title="Studies">Studies</a></li> <li><a href="/exposureresearch/partners.asp" title="Partners">Partners</a></li> <li><a href="/exposureresearch/sources.asp" title="Sources">Sources</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="Employee Health"><span></span>Employee Health</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/employeehealth/index.asp" title="Employee Health Home">Employee Health Home</a></li> <li><a href="/employeehealth/clinical_occhealth/index.asp" title="Employee Occupational Health">Employee Occupational Health</a></li> <li><a href="/employeehealth/patient-handling/index.asp" title="Safe Patient Handling">Safe Patient Handling</a></li> <li><a href="/employeehealth/wellness/index.asp" title="Health Promotion">Health Promotion</a></li> <li><a href="/employeehealth/workerscompensation/index.asp" title="Workers' Compensation">Workers' Compensation</a></li> <li><a href="/employeehealth/resources.asp" title="Publications & Reports">Publications & Reports</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="About Us"><span></span>About Us</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/about/index.asp" title="About Public Health">About Public Health</a></li> <li><a href="/about/postdeploymenthealth/index.asp" title="Health Outcomes Military Exposures">Health Outcomes Military Exposures</a></li> <li><a href="#" title="Occupational Health"><span></span>Occupational Health</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/about/occhealth/index.asp" title="About Occupational Health">About Occupational Health</a></li> <li><a href="/about/occhealth/workers-compensation.asp" title="Workers' Compensation Program">Workers' Compensation Program</a></li> <li><a href="/about/occhealth/violence-prevention.asp" title="Violence Prevention Program">Violence Prevention Program</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="#" title="VEMEC"><span></span>VEMEC</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="/about/vemec/index.asp" title="About VEMEC">About VEMEC</a></li> <li><a href="/about/vemec/projects/index.asp" title="Key Projects">Key Projects</a></li> </ul> <li><a href="/about/bios/index.asp" title="Biographies">Biographies</a></li> <li><a href="/about/contact_us.asp" title="Contact Public Health">Contact Public Health</a></li> </ul> </ul> <!-- ********** START VHA NAV ************ --> <li><a href="#"><span></span>More Health Care</a> <ul class="sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/index.asp">Veterans Health Administration</a></li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Health Benefits</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/">Health Benefits Home</a></li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Apply for VA Care</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/">Apply Online</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/eligibility/">Veteran Eligibility</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apply/active_duty.asp">Active Duty</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/family-caregiver-benefits/">Families of Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/womens-health-needs/">Women Veterans</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Determine Costs</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/communitycare/revenue_ops/copays.asp">Copays</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/cost/financial_assessment.asp">Means Test</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/about-va-health-benefits/va-health-care-and-other-insurance/">Health Insurance</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/cost/make_a_payment.asp">Make a Payment</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Community Care</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/communitycare/">Community Care Home</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/communitycare/programs/veterans/index.asp">For Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/communitycare/providers/index.asp">For Providers</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/communitycare/pubs/index.asp">Forms & Publications</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Affordable Care Act</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/aca/index.asp">Overview</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/aca/EnrolledVeterans.asp">Veterans Enrolled<br>in VA Health Care</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/aca/NonEnrolledVeterans.asp">Veterans Not Enrolled in VA<br>Health Care</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/aca/FamilyMembers.asp">Family Members</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/aca/FAQ.asp">Frequently Asked Questions</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/schedule-view-va-appointments/">Schedule a VA Appointment</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.caregiver.va.gov/">Caregiver Support</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/choosing-between-urgent-and-emergency-care/">Urgent Care</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Conditions & Treatments</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/topics/index.asp">See All Conditions & Treatments (A-Z)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.hepatitis.va.gov/">Hepatitis</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.hiv.va.gov/">HIV</a></li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Mental Health</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/">Mental Health Home</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention/index.asp">Suicide Prevention</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/substance-abuse/index.asp">Substance Abuse</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/msthome/index.asp">Military Sexual Trauma</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ptsd.va.gov/">PTSD</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mirecc.va.gov/">Research (MIRECC)</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/index.asp">Military Exposures</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.polytrauma.va.gov/">Polytrauma</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.patientcare.va.gov/RehabilitationServices.asp">Rehabilitation</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.sci.va.gov/">Spinal Cord Injury</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.telehealth.va.gov/">Telehealth</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/">Womens Health Issues</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Wellness Programs</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home">MyHealtheVet</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.nutrition.va.gov/">Nutrition</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.mentalhealth.va.gov/quit-tobacco/">Quitting Smoking</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/vaccines.asp">Vaccines & Immunizations</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/flu/index.asp">Flu Vaccination</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.prevention.va.gov/">Prevention / Wellness</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/">Public Health</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.move.va.gov/">Weight Management (MOVE!)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/wholehealth/">Whole Health Program</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Locations</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=health">Hospitals & Clinics</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center">Vet Centers</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.vacanteen.va.gov/">Veterans Canteen Service (VCS)</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Research</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/">Research Home</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/about/">About VA Research</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/services/">Services</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/programs/">Programs</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/currents/">News, Events and Media</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/topics/">Research Topics</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/for_veterans/">For Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.research.va.gov/resources/">For Researchers</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/oro/">Research Oversight</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Special Groups</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.caregiver.va.gov/">Caregivers</a></li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Combat Veterans & their Families</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.vetcenter.va.gov/">Readjustment Counseling (Vet Centers)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/">War Related Illness & Injury Study Center</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/homeless/">Homeless Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.oefoif.va.gov/">Returning Service Members</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ruralhealth.va.gov/">Rural Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/geriatrics/">Seniors & Aging Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.volunteer.va.gov/">Volunteers</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.womenshealth.va.gov/">Women Veterans</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Careers, Job Help & Training</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Find a Job with VA</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.vacareers.va.gov/">Health Care Jobs (VA Careers)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/nursing/">Travel Nurses</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Get Job Help</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/vetsinworkplace/">Vets in the Workplace</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.vaforvets.va.gov/">VA for Vets</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/pbi/">Performance Based Interviewing</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/oaa/index.asp">Clinical Trainees (Academic Affiliations)</a> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Employees & Contractors</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.tms.va.gov/SecureAuth35/">Talent Management System (TMS)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.valu.va.gov/Home/Index">VA Learning University (VALU)</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.simlearn.va.gov/">SimLearn</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/library/valnet/index.asp">Libraries (VALNET)</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/vdl/">VA Software Documentation Library (VDL)</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>About VHA</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/aboutVHA.asp">Learn about VHA</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/vhapublications/">Forms & Publications</a></li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Quality & Safety</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.accesstocare.va.gov/">Access and Quality Data</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.ethics.va.gov/">Ethics</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.healthquality.va.gov/">VA/DOD Clinical Practice Guidelines</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/medicalinspector/">Medical Inspector</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.patientsafety.va.gov/">Patient Safety</a></li> </ul> </li> <li><a href="#"><span></span>Organizations</a> <ul class="sub-sub-menu"> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/landing_admin.asp">Administrative</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/landing_clinical.asp">Clinical</a></li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> </ul> </li> <!-- ********** END VHA NAV ************ --> </ul> </div> <!--************ END LEFT NAVIGATION ***************--> </div> <!-- *********** LEFT COLUMN ADDITIONAL CONTENT AREA *************** --> <div id="left-col-content"> <!-- ****************** QUICK LINKS ********************** --> <div class="widget clearfix"> <div class="widget-title"><span class="hdr-text">Quick Links </span></div> <div id="widget-quick-links"> <div id="widget-locator"> <div id="locator-form"> <script language="javascript" type="text/javascript"> var address = ""; var url = ""; function Validate() { var addr=trim(document.zipSearch.inputaddress.value); if (addr.length==0 || addr.toLowerCase()=="zip code"){ alert("Please enter Zip code."); document.zipSearch.inputaddress.focus(); return false; } else { address = trim(document.zipSearch.inputaddress.value); pgname = "https://www.va.gov/find-locations/"; url = pgname + "?address=" + address + "&page=1&facilityType=health&serviceType"; window.location.href=url; return false; } } function trim(str) { var re = /^\s+(.*?)\s+$/; return str.replace(re,"$1"); } </script> <form name="zipSearch" action="https://www.va.gov/find-locations/" method="get" onSubmit="return Validate();"> <label for="LocatorPostalCode" class="positionset">Enter ZIP code here</label> <input id="LocatorPostalCode" class="inputstyle" type="text" onFocus="this.value=''" size="10" maxlength="10" value="Zip Code" name="inputaddress" title="Enter ZIP here"> <div id="zipButton"> <label for="zipInputButton" class="positionset">Enter ZIP code here</label> <input id="zipInputButton" type="image" src="/va_files/2012/images/button-locator.png" alt="Search" title="Click here to submit"><input type="submit" id="submit-hidethis" class="hidethis" value="Search" /> </div> <!-- End ZIp Button --> </form> </div> <!-- End Locator Form --> <ul> <li><a title="Heath Programs" href="https://www.va.gov/health/programs/index.asp"><img src="https://www.va.gov/health/images/homepage/button-health.png" alt="Health Programs"></a></li> <li><a title="Public Health Issues" href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/"><img src="https://www.va.gov/health/images/homepage/button-protect-your-health.png" alt="Protect your health"></a></li> <li><a title="A-Z Health Topics Index" href="https://www.va.gov/health/topics/index.asp"><img src="https://www.va.gov/health/images/homepage/button-health-a-z.png" alt="Learn more: A-Z Health"></a></li> </ul> </div><!--end locator --> </div><!-- end quick links --> </div> <!-- end widget --> <!-- ****************** END QUICK LINKS ********************** --> <div class="clearfix"></div> <!-- ********************* MHV and Blue Button ************************* --> <div class="badge"><a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/"><img src="https://www.va.gov/health/images/homepage/badge_VCL.jpg" width="184" height="90" title="Veterans Crisis Line Badge" alt="Veterans Crisis Line Badge"></a></div> <div class="badge"><a href="https://www.myhealth.va.gov/mhv-portal-web/home"><img src="https://www.va.gov/health/images/homepage/badge_MHEV.jpg" width="184" height="90" title="My healthevet badge" alt="My healthevet badge" ></a></div> <!-- ********************* END OF MHV and Blue Button ************************* --> </div><!--End Left Col Content --> <!-- *********** END OF LEFT COLUMN ADDITIONAL CONTENT AREA *************** --> <style> .va-footer-links-bottom:last-of-type { margin-bottom: 20px; } #footer-alert { position: fixed; bottom: 0; left:0; z-index:1; width: 100%; height: 60px; background-color: #f1f1f1; } #footer-alert p { margin: 8px auto; text-align: center; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 700; color: #004795; } #footer-alert p a { color: #004795; } .va-banner-body > p > i { display: none; } @media (min-width: 480px) { .va-banner-body > p > i { display: inline-block; background-color: #ffffff; border-radius: 50%; margin: 0.4rem; padding: 0.8em; } #footer-alert p { margin: 5px auto; font-size: 1.2em; } } </style> <script> $(function() { document.getElementById("sub-footer").style.marginBottom = "60px"; var alertMsg = "<div id=\"footer-alert\"><div class=\"va-banner-body\" role=\"banner\"><p><i class=\"fas fa-bullhorn icon-left\" aria-hidden=\"true\"> </i><a href=\"https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits\" title=\"PACT Act and your VA benefits\">Learn what the PACT Act means for your VA benefits <i class=\"fas fa-angle-double-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"></i><\/a><\/p><\/div><\/div>"; $("body").append(alertMsg); }); </script> </div> <!--End of left nav container --> <!-- ******* END OF LEFT COLUMN ******** --> <!-- *************************** End LEFT NAVIGATION MENU ******************************* --> </div> </div> <!-- Right Container --> <span style="position:absolute;"><a id="main-content"> </a></span> <div class="col-md-9"> <div class="row"> <div class="col-md-8"> <div class="fill"> <div id="innerContentWrapper"> <div id="innerContent" class="innerDir"> <!-- START: PAGE TITLE AREA --> <h2 class="page-title">Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures</h2> <!-- ********** END PAGE TITLE ********** --> <!-- ********** START PAGE CONTENT ******** --> <style><!-- figure{ width: 275px; float: right; margin: 0 0 0 20px !important; } figure figcaption {font-weight: bold; font-size:11px; } #burnpitthumb{ cursor: pointer; transition: 0.3s; } #burnpitthumb:hover {opacity: 0.7;} /* The Modal (background) */ .modal { display: none; /* Hidden by default */ position: fixed; /* Stay in place */ z-index: 1; /* Sit on top */ padding-top: 100px; /* Location of the box */ left: 0; top: 0; width: 100%; /* Full width */ height: 100%; /* Full height */ overflow: auto; /* Enable scroll if needed */ background-color: rgb(0,0,0); /* Fallback color */ background-color: rgba(0,0,0,0.9); /* Black w/ opacity */ } /* Modal Content (image) */ .modal-content { margin: auto; display: block; width: 80%; max-width: 700px; } /* Caption of Modal Image */ #caption { margin: auto; display: block; width: 80%; max-width: 700px; text-align: center; color: #ccc; padding: 10px 0; height: 150px; } /* Add Animation */ .modal-content, #caption { -webkit-animation-name: zoom; -webkit-animation-duration: 0.6s; animation-name: zoom; animation-duration: 0.6s; } @-webkit-keyframes zoom { from {-webkit-transform:scale(0)} to {-webkit-transform:scale(1)} } @keyframes zoom { from {transform:scale(0)} to {transform:scale(1)} } /* The Close Button */ .close { position: absolute; top: 15px; right: 35px; color: #f1f1f1; font-size: 40px; font-weight: bold; transition: 0.3s; } .close:hover, .close:focus { color: #bbb; text-decoration: none; cursor: pointer; } /* 100% Image Width on Smaller Screens */ @media only screen and (max-width: 700px){ .modal-content { width: 100%; } } --></style> <div style="margin-top: -18px;"> <p>Read about <a href="#presumptive" title="presumptive conditions">presumptive conditions</a>.<br /><br />“Airborne hazard” refers to any sort of contaminant or potentially toxic substance that we are exposed to through the air we breathe. While on active duty, military service members may have been exposed to a variety of airborne hazards including:</p> <ul> <li>The smoke and fumes from open burn pits</li> <li>Sand, dust, and particulate matter</li> <li>General air pollution common in certain countries</li> <li>Fuel, aircraft exhaust, and other mechanical fumes</li> <li>Smoke from oil well fires</li> </ul> <figure><img alt="Map of countries and bodies of water included in AHOBR 2.0" id="burnpitthumb" src="/images/burnpits/20230801_Salvatore_AHOBPR_2.png" width="309" /> <figcaption>Click to expand the map of countries and bodies of water currently included in the VA Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry.</figcaption> </figure> <!-- The Modal --> <div class="modal" id="myModal"><span class="close">×</span> <img class="modal-content" id="img01" /> <div id="caption"></div> </div> <p>VA understands that many Veterans are especially concerned about exposure to the smoke and fumes generated by open burn pits. <br /><br />In Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas of the Southwest Asia theater of military operations, open-air combustion of trash and other waste in burn pits was a common practice. The Department of Defense has now closed out most burn pits and is planning to close the remainder. <br /><br />Depending on a variety of factors, you may experience health effects related to this exposure. Factors that may indicate you have a greater or lesser risk of short or long-term health effects include:</p> <ul style="list-style-position: outside;"> <li>Types of waste burned</li> <li>Proximity, amount of time, and frequency of exposure</li> <li>Wind direction and other weather-related factors</li> <li>Presence of other airborne or environmental hazards in the area</li> </ul> <p><strong>Researchers, including experts at VA, are actively studying airborne hazards like burn pits and other military environmental exposures.</strong> Ongoing research will help us better understand potential long-term health effects and provide you with better care and services.</p> <p>Many health conditions related to these hazards are temporary and should disappear after the exposure ends. Other longer-term health issues may be caused by a combination of hazardous exposures, injuries, or illnesses you may have experienced during your military service including blast or noise injuries.</p> <h2><a id="presumptive" name="presumptive" title="presumptive" class="bookmark"></a> Presumptive Conditions for Airborne Hazards and Burn Pit Exposures </h2> <figure><img alt="Doctor speaking with older man " src="/images/hazexp/doctor-patient.jpg" style="float: right; margin: 5px 0 0 20px; width: 100%; max-width: 300px;" /></figure> <p>The following are presumptive conditions:<strong><br /></strong></p> <ul> <li>Brain cancer</li> <li>Gastrointestinal cancer of any type</li> <li>Glioblastoma</li> <li>Head cancer of any type</li> <li>Kidney cancer</li> <li>Lymphatic cancer of any type</li> <li>Lymphoma of any type</li> <li>Melanoma</li> <li>Neck cancer</li> <li>Pancreatic cancer</li> <li>Reproductive cancer of any type</li> <li>Squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx</li> <li>Squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea</li> <li>Adenocarcinoma of the trachea</li> <li>Salivary gland-type tumors of the trachea</li> <li>Adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung</li> <li>Large cell carcinoma of the lung</li> <li>Salivary gland-type tumors of the lung</li> <li>Sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung</li> <li>Typical and atypical carcinoid of the lung</li> <li>Respiratory (breathing-related) cancer of any type</li> </ul> <div class="image-left"><img alt="Scan the QR code" border="0" height="300" src="/images/QR-BurnPits.jpg" title="Scan the QR code to continue reading" width="214" /></div> <ul> <li>Asthma <span>that was diagnosed after service</span></li> <li>Chronic bronchitis</li> <li>Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)</li> <li>Chronic rhinitis</li> <li>Chronic sinusitis</li> <li>Constrictive bronchiolitis or obliterative bronchiolitis</li> <li>Emphysema</li> <li>Granulomatous disease</li> <li>Interstitial lung disease (ILD)</li> <li>Pleuritis</li> <li>Pulmonary fibrosis</li> <li>Sarcoidosis</li> </ul> Read about burn pit and other toxic exposures that are now <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/">presumptions related to the PACT Act.</a><br /><br /> <p><strong>We encourage all Veterans who are concerned about exposure to burn pits or other airborne hazards to talk to talk to your health care provider, <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.va.gov%2Fhealth-care%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C33c21521d1d445eef73e08dce7c52a56%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638640081205346269%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=qUyFeJFM0OIkQLCSQmx6N9ng%2ByqxZnsq5Al1QSzhi5Y%3D&reserved=0">apply for VA health care</a>, and <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.va.gov%2Fdisability%2Fhow-to-file-claim%2F&data=05%7C02%7C%7C33c21521d1d445eef73e08dce7c52a56%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638640081205362553%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=xi7lp522IJEJzW3BOsUVvwIeRWHrg78f1bTccn2rSeA%3D&reserved=0">file a claim</a> for compensation and benefits</strong>. You do not have to file a VA claim to receive care from VA.</p> <p>If you served in Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) in Afghanistan or Operations Iraqi Freedom (OIF) or New Dawn (OND) in Iraq, you can receive <a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.va.gov%2Fhealth-care%2Feligibility%2Factive-duty%2F%23%3A~%3Atext%3DYou%2520can%2520receive%2520free%2520VA%2Ccalled%2520an%2520enhanced%2520eligibility%2520period.&data=05%7C02%7C%7C33c21521d1d445eef73e08dce7c52a56%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C638640081205379612%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C0%7C%7C%7C&sdata=bJkGbas3xar1AmK2wQGVIUp%2B8nrdvsIMgGo38bxw3qs%3D&reserved=0">free VA health care for up to 10 years</a> after separation from the military. Taking advantage of this enhanced eligibility period may help your VA claim for compensation, benefits, and health care later</p> <br />Read about <a href="https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/">eligiblity for free VA health care </a>as a post-9/11 combat Veteran. <br /><br /><br /> <h2>Open Burn Pits – What Was Burned</h2> <p>Waste products commonly disposed of in open burn pits include:</p> <ul style="list-style-position: outside;"> <li>Chemicals, paint, medical and human waste</li> <li>Metal and aluminum cans</li> <li>Munitions and unexploded ordnance</li> <li>Petroleum and lubricant products</li> <li>Plastics, rubber, wood, and food waste</li> </ul> <p>Exposure to smoke created by burning these materials may cause irritation and burning of eyes or throat, coughing, breathing difficulties, skin itching or rashes. Many of these conditions are temporary and resolve on their own when the exposure ends. However, if you were closer to burn pit smoke or were exposed for longer periods of time, you may be at greater risk for longer-term health conditions.</p> <h2>Additional Information</h2> <p>Please refer to the resources below for additional information:</p> <ul style="list-style-position: outside;"> <li><a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/sand-dust-particulates/index.asp">Sand, Dust, and Particulate Exposure </a></li> <li><a href="https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/docs/modflyer.asp">War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC) Training for Health Care Providers</a></li> <li><a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.publichealth.va.gov%2Fexposures%2Fpublications%2Fmilitary-exposures%2Fmeyh-3%2Findex.asp&data=04%7C01%7C%7C489a7e3f1610449f69d008d89aeb950f%7Ce95f1b23abaf45ee821db7ab251ab3bf%7C0%7C0%7C637429683886909820%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C1000&sdata=8Qt8cTIFd5k6Rodx4LGkpDMuEKR12OMPnnLWgN1jZsE%3D&reserved=0">Military Exposures Newsletter </a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/gulfwar/sources/oil-well-fires.asp">Oil Well Fires during Gulf War</a></li> </ul> <p>To learn more about other types of military exposures, visit the <a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/index.asp">military exposures homepage</a>.</p> <div class="clear"> </div> <p style="background: #eee; margin-top:1.5em; padding: 8px;"><a title="Download free viewer and reader software" href="http://www.va.gov/viewer.htm">Download free viewer and reader software</a> to view PDF, video and other file formats.</p> <script>// <![CDATA[ // Get the modal var modal = document.getElementById("myModal"); // Get the image and insert it inside the modal - use its "alt" text as a caption var img = document.getElementById("burnpitthumb"); var modalImg = document.getElementById("img01"); var captionText = document.getElementById("caption"); img.onclick = function(){ modal.style.display = "block"; modalImg.src = this.src; captionText.innerHTML = this.alt; } // Get the <span> element that closes the modal var span = document.getElementsByClassName("close")[0]; // When the user clicks on <span> (x), close the modal span.onclick = function() { modal.style.display = "none"; } // ]]></script> </div> <!-- Burn Pits --> <div style="display: none;" class="exposure" id="burnPitsHiddenHTML" aria-hidden="true"> <h2 id="exposureName">Burn Pits</h2> <!-- Exposure Description --> <div class="exposureDescription"> <p>Open air pits used to burn several waste products, including, but not limited to: chemicals, paint, medical and human waste, metal/aluminum cans, munitions, petroleum and lubricant products, plastics and Styrofoam, rubber, wood, and food waste.</p> </div> <!-- Exposure Source --> <div class="exposureSource"> <p>Veterans who were deployed to any area where a burn pit was operated.</p> </div> <!-- Exposure Pathway --> <div class="exposurePathway"> <p>inhalation</p> </div> <!-- Locations related to the exposure --> <div class="exposureArea"> <p>Southwest Asia, South-Central Asia, Southeastern Europe, Africa</p> </div> <!-- Conflicts related to the exposure --> <div class="exposureConflict"> <p>Gulf War, Operation Joint Endeavor (OJE), Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) / Operation Freedom's Sentinel (OFS), Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) / Operation New Dawn (OND)</p> </div> <!-- Dates relevant to the exposure --> <div class="exposureDates"> <p>1990-1991, 2001-2021</p> </div> <!-- Health implications relevant to the exposure --> <div class="exposureHealthImplications"> <p>Toxicants in burn pit smoke may affect the skin, eyes, respiratory and cardiovascular systems, gastrointestinal tract and internal organs. Acute effects include eye irritation and burning, coughing and throat irritation, breathing difficulties, and skin itching and rashes.</p> <p>Veterans who were closer to burn pit smoke or exposed for longer periods may be at greater risk for more serious effects, including some cancers. Health effects depend on a number of other factors, such as the kind of waste being burned and wind direction.</p> </div> <!-- Change the url to the new url --> <!-- Change the description to fit the new url --> <div class="exposureSites"> <div class="documentSite"> <ul> <li class="description">Burn Pits webpage</li> <li class="url">https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/index.asp</li> </ul> </div> </div> <!-- Fact Sheets --> <div class="exposureFactsheets"> <div class="factsheetInfo"> <ul> <li class="descr">WRIISC - Burn Pits Fact Sheet</li> <li class="url">https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/education/factsheets/burn-pits.pdf</li> </ul> </div> <div class="factsheetInfo"> <ul> <li class="descr">USAPHC - Burn Pit Exposures FAQs</li> <li class="url">https://phc.amedd.army.mil/PHC%20Resource%20Library/Burn_Pits_FAQs_FS_64-027-0514.pdf</li> </ul> </div> </div> <!-- Exposure Reports --> <div class="exposureReports"> <div class="reportInfo"> <ul> <li class="description">NASEM - Long-Term Health Consequences of Exposure to Burn Pits in Iraq and Afghanistan (2011)</li> <li class="url">https://www.nap.edu/read/13209/chapter/1</li> </ul> </div> <div class="reportInfo"> <ul> <li class="description">NASEM - Assessment of the Department of Veterans Affairs Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry (2017)</li> <li class="url">https://www.nap.edu/read/23677/chapter/1</li> </ul> </div> <div class="reportInfo"> <ul> <li class="description">NASEM - Respiratory Health Effects of Airborne Hazards Exposures in the Southwest Asia Theater of Military Operations (2020)</li> <li class="url">https://www.nap.edu/read/25837/chapter/1</li> </ul> </div> </div> <!-- Other Useful Resources --> <div class="Resources"> </div> <!-- Referrals relevant to the exposure --> <div class="exposureReferrals"> <div class="Referral"><!-- Referral Name --> <p class="name">Get a Registry Evaluation</p> <!-- Website(s) related to the referral --> <div class="referralSite"> <ul> <li class="descr">Environmental Health Coordinator</li> <li class="url">https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/coordinators.asp</li> </ul> </div> <!-- Website(s) related to the referral --> <!-- General information/content of the program --> <!-- <p> - represents a paragraph, or general statement --> <!-- <li> - represents a list item, similar to bullet point --> <p class="content">Contact your local https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/coordinators.asp or VA Primary Care Team about getting a registry evaluation.</p> </div> <div class="Referral"><!-- Referral Name --> <p class="name">WRIISC Link</p> <!-- Website(s) related to the referral --> <div class="referralSite"> <ul> <li class="descr">War Related Illness and Injury Study Center (WRIISC)</li> <li class="url">https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/WARRELATEDILLNESS/referral/index.asp</li> </ul> </div> <!-- General information/content of the program --> <!-- <p> - represents a paragraph, or general statement --> <!-- <li> - represents a list item, similar to bullet point --> <p class="content">For evaluation for difficult-to-diagnose conditions, contact your local https://www.warrelatedillness.va.gov/WARRELATEDILLNESS/referral/index.asp.</p> </div> </div> <!-- Policies related to the exposure --> <div class="exposurePolicies"><!-- Burn Pits Presumption --> <div class="policyHeading"><!-- Policy Name --> <span class="policyName"> Burn Pits Presumption</span> <!-- Website(s) related to the policy --> <span class="policySite"></span> <!-- General information/content of the policy --> <!-- <p> - represents a paragraph, or general statement --> <!-- <li> - represents a list item, similar to bullet point --> <p>There are 20 burn pit and other toxic exposure presumptive conditions.</p> <ul> <li>These cancers are presumptive:</li> <li>Brain cancer</li> <li>Gastrointestinal cancer of any type</li> <li>Glioblastoma</li> <li>Head cancer of any type</li> <li>Kidney cancer</li> <li>Lymphoma of any type</li> <li>Melanoma</li> <li>Neck cancer of any type</li> <li>Pancreatic cancer</li> <li>Reproductive cancer of any type</li> <li>Respiratory (breathing-related) cancer of any type</li> </ul> <ul> <li>These illnesses are presumptive:</li> <li>Asthma that was diagnosed after service</li> <li>Chronic bronchitis</li> <li>Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)</li> <li>Chronic rhinitis</li> <li>Chronic sinusitis</li> <li>Constrictive bronchiolitis or obliterative bronchiolitis</li> <li>Emphysema</li> <li>Granulomatous disease</li> <li>Interstitial lung disease (ILD)</li> <li>Pleuritis</li> <li>Pulmonary fibrosis</li> <li>Sarcoidosis</li> </ul> <p>For Veterans who served in any of these locations and time periods, VA has determined that they have had exposure to burn pits or other toxins (they have a presumption of exposure).</p> <ul> <li>On or after September 11, 2001, in any of these locations:</li> <li>Afghanistan</li> <li>Djibouti</li> <li>Egypt</li> <li>Jordan</li> <li>Lebanon</li> <li>Syria</li> <li>Uzbekistan</li> <li>Yemen</li> <li>The airspace above any of these locations</li> </ul> <p>On or after August 2, 1990, in any of these locations:</p> <ul> <li>Bahrain</li> <li>Iraq</li> <li>Kuwait</li> <li>Oman</li> <li>Qatar</li> <li>Saudi Arabia</li> <li>Somalia</li> <li>The United Arab Emirates (UAE)</li> <li>The airspace above any of these locations</li> </ul> <!-- Dates related to the policy --> <span class="policyStartDate">2001</span> <span class="policyEndDate">2100</span> <!--Conflicts related to the policy --> <span class="policyConflicts">All Conflicts</span> <!-- Locations related to the policy --> <span class="policyLocations">All Locations</span></div> </div> <!-- Programs related to the exposure --> <div class="exposurePrograms"><!-- Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry --> <div class="programHeading"><!-- Program Name --> <span class="programName">Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry</span> <!-- Website(s) related to the program --> <ul> <li class="url">https://veteran.mobilehealth.va.gov/AHBurnPitRegistry/</li> </ul> <!-- <span class="policySites"> <li class="url">http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/action-plan.asp</li> </span> --> <!-- General information/content of the program --> <!-- <p> - represents a paragraph, or general statement --> <!-- <li> - represents a list item, similar to bullet point --> <p>Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry: You are eligible to participate in the registry if you were deployed to the Southwest Asia theater of operations or Egypt any time after August 2, 1990 or Afghanistan, Djibouti, Syria, or Uzbekistan on or after September 11, 2001.. These regions include the following countries, bodies of water, and the airspace above these locations:</p> <ul> <li>Iraq</li> <li>Afghanistan</li> <li>Kuwait</li> <li>Saudi Arabia</li> <li>Bahrain</li> <li>Djibouti</li> <li>Gulf of Aden</li> <li>Gulf of Oman</li> <li>Oman</li> <li>Qatar</li> <li>United Arab Emirates (UAE)</li> <li>Waters of the Persian Gulf, Arzabian Sea, and Red Sea</li> <li>Syria</li> <li>Uzbekistan</li> <li>Egypt</li> </ul> <p>Participants may schedule an optional in-person clinical evaluation by a VA provider.</p> <p>Active Duty service members who would like a similar voluntary medical evaluation may contact your local military hospital or clinic and state that you would like an appointment specifically to address health concerns related to the Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry exposures. Please note a medical evaluation is NOT required to be in the registry.</p> <p>Or The eligible individual may complete the web-based self-assessment, which can be found at: https://veteran.mobilehealth.va.gov/AHBurnPitRegistry/.</p> <!-- <li>For more information, visit: https://veteran.mobilehealth.va.gov/AHBurnPitRegistry/</li> --> <!-- Dates related to the program --> <span class="programStartDate">1990</span> <span class="programEndDate">2021</span> <!--Conflicts related to the program --> <span class="programConflicts">Gulf War, Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF) / Operation Freedom's Sentinel (OFS)</span> <!--Locations related to the program --> <span class="programLocations">Southwest Asia, South-Central Asia, Africa</span></div> </div> </div> <!--********** End PAGE CONTENT ***********--> <div class="top_link"><a href="#top">return to top <img alt="go" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/arrow_up.png" width="7" height="10"></a></div> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col-md-4"> <div class="fill"> <div id="rightContent"> <!-- ************************************** BEGIN RIGHT COLUMN ********************************************* --> <div id="tier4RightContent"> <div id="innerRightContent"> <!--********** START HTML Widget *********--> <div class="clear"></div> <div class="widget clearfix"> <div class="widget-title"><h4>Explore Airborne Hazards</h4></div> <ul> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/index.asp" title="General Information">General Information</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp" title="Registry">Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/research.asp" title="Research">Research</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/get-care.asp" title="How to Get Care">How to Get Care</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/for-providers.asp" title="For Providers">Information for Health Care Providers</a></li> <li><a href="/exposures/burnpits/faqs.asp" title="FAQs">Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)</a></li> </ul> </div><!-- End HTML box widget --> <!-- ****************** END HTML Widget ********************** --> <!--********** START National Call Outs *********--> <div class="clear"></div> <div class="badge rt_badge"> <a href="https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp" title="VA Launches the Redesigned Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry"><img src="https://www.va.gov/HEALTH/vamc/images/callouts/burn-pit-registry-callout-184x90.png" alt="VA Launches the Redesigned Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry" title="VA Launches the Redesigned Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry" ></a> </div> <div class="clear"></div> <div class="badge rt_badge"> <a href="/exposures/coordinators.asp" title="Environmental health coordinators directory"><img src="/images/callouts/ehc-directory-callout.png" alt="Environmental health coordinators directory" title="Environmental health coordinators directory" ></a> </div> <div class="clear"></div> <div class="badge rt_badge"> <a href="http://www.va.gov/healthbenefits/apply/" title="VA Health Care: Apply Now"><img src="https://www.va.gov/HEALTH/vamc/images/callouts/Callout_ApplyNow.png" alt="VA Health Care: Apply Now" title="VA Health Care: Apply Now" ></a> </div> <!--********** START Contacts *********--> <div class="clear"></div> <div class="widget clearfix"> <div class="widget-title"><h4>Contact</h4></div> <p> Health Care <br> 877-222-8387 <br> </p> <p> Benefits <br> 800-827-1000 <br> </p> <p> TDD (Hearing Impaired) <br> 800-829-4833 <br> </p> </div><!-- End Contacts widget --> <!-- ****************** END Contacts widget ********************** --> </div><!-- END InnerRightContent --> <!--end tier4RightContent --> <!-- ************************************** END RIGHT COLUMN ********************************************* --> </div> <!-- ***************************** END PAGE CONTENT **************************************** --> </div> </div> </div> </div><!-- END InnerContentWrapper --> <!-- Right Container End --> </section> </div><!-- End Site Wrapper --> </div><!-- End Middle Effect --> </div><!-- End BG Main --> <!-- ************************************** START SITE FOOTER ********************************************* --> <div id="footer-effect"> <div class="container" id="footer"> <div class="row"> <div class="VHA-administration-logo"><img src="/TS_SHARED/va_administrations/VHA/VAMC/images/homepage/vha-excellence.png" height="46" width="198" alt="VHA Excellence"></div> <div class="footer-accordion"> <div class="col connect"> <span class="blue-hdr top-level"><a href="javascript:void(0)">CONNECT</a></span> <div id="connect" class="ftrcls"> <p class="mobile--hide"> <a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/">Veterans Crisis Line:</a><br> <span class="larger"><a href="tel:+988">Call: 988</a></span> (Press 1)</p> <p class="h4correct">Social Media</p> <div id="footer-social-wrapper"> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's Email Directory" href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USVA/subscriber/new/"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-email.png" alt="Email icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Facebook page" href="https://www.facebook.com/VeteransAffairs"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-fb.png" alt="Facebook icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Twitter account" href="https://www.twitter.com/DeptVetAffairs/"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-twitter.png" alt="Twitter icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA News" href="https://news.va.gov"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-blog.png" alt="Blog icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Flickr account" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/VeteransAffairs/"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-flickr.png" alt="Flickr icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Youtube account" href="https://www.youtube.com/user/DeptVetAffairs"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-youtube.png" alt="Youtube icon"></a></div> <div class="main-social-containers"><a title="Link to VA's main Instagram account" href="https://www.instagram.com/deptvetaffairs/"><img src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/social-instagram.png" alt="Instagram icon"></a></div> </div> <!--End Footer social wrapper --> <p class="h4correct"><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/socialmedia.asp" title="The complete social media directory for the Department of Veterans Affairs" >Complete Directory </a></p> <div class="social-ft"> <span class="blue-hdr">EMAIL UPDATES</span> <div id="footer-email"> <form action="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USVA/subscribers/qualify" onSubmit="return window.confirm("You are submitting information to an external page.\nAre you sure?");"> <input name="topic_id" type="hidden" value="USVA"> <label class="positionset" for="email_footer">Email Address Required</label> <input class="email_footer" id="email_footer" name="email" type="text" size="10" value="Email Address" onFocus="this.value=''" title="Enter here"> <div id="footer-email-Button"> <label class="positionset" for="commit">Button to subscribe to email</label> <input name="commit" class="form_button" id="commit" type="image" src="/va_files/2014/responsive/images/button-footer-email.png" alt="Click here to submit your email" title="Click here to submit your email"> </div> </form> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="col"> <span class="blue-hdr top-level"><a href="javascript:void(0)">VA HOME</a></span> <div class="ftrcls"> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/about_va/va_notices.asp" >Notices</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/privacy/" >Privacy</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/foia/" >FOIA</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/orpm/" >Regulations</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/webpolicylinks.asp" >Web Policies</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/ormdi/NOFEAR_Select.asp" >No FEAR Act</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/accountability/" >Whistleblower Rights & Protections</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/general/site_map.htm" >Site Index</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.usa.gov/" >USA.gov</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/" >White House</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/oig/" >Inspector General</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <!--/ .col --> <div class="col"> <span class="blue-hdr top-level"><a href="javascript:void(0)">QUICK LIST</a></span> <div class="ftrcls"> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/BENEFITS/Applying.asp" >Apply for Benefits</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health-care/how-to-apply/" >Apply for Health Care</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.myhealth.va.gov/pharmacy">Prescriptions</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.myhealth.va.gov/" >My Health<span>e</span>Vet</a></li> <li><a href="https://benefits.va.gov/insurance/choose.asp" >Life Insurance Online Applications</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/vaforms/" >VA Forms</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/landing2_locations.htm" >State and Local Resources</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/op3/docs/StrategicPlanning/VA2014-2020strategicPlan.pdf" >Strat Plan FY 2014-2020</a> </li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/performance/index.asp" >VA Plans, Budget, & Performance</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/ogc/accreditation.asp" >VA Claims Representation</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <!--/ .col --> <div class="col"> <span class="blue-hdr top-level"><a href="javascript:void(0)">RESOURCES</a></span> <div class="ftrcls"> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/jobs/">Careers at VA</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.vets.gov/employment/">Employment Center</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.oefoif.va.gov/" >Returning Service Members</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/vocrehab/index.asp" >Vocational Rehabilitation & Employment</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/homeless/" >Homeless Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/womenvet/" >Women Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/centerforminorityveterans/" >Minority Veterans</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/opa/Plain_Language.asp" >Plain Language</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/survivors/" >Surviving Spouses & Dependents</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/adaptivesports/" >Adaptive Sports Program</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <!--/ .col --> <div class="col"> <span class="blue-hdr top-level"><a href="javascript:void(0)">ADMINISTRATION</a></span> <div class="ftrcls"> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.va.gov/health/default.asp" >Veterans Health Administration</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.benefits.va.gov/benefits/" >Veterans Benefits Administration</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.cem.va.gov/" >National Cemetery Administration</a></li> </ul> </div> </div> <!--/ .col --> </div> </div> </div> <div id="sub-footer"> <p>U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs | 810 Vermont Avenue, NW Washington DC 20420</p> <p class="small-print">Last updated October 15, 2024</p> </div><!--/sub-footer--> </div><!--/#footer--> </div><!--End Footer Effect --> <div id="modal-crisisline" class="va-overlay va-modal va-modal-large" role="alertdialog" > <div class="va-crisis-panel va-modal-inner va-rounded--all"> <h2 id="va-crisis-title" class="va-text-center va-uppercase">Get help from Veterans Crisis Line</h2> <div class="va-overlay-body va-crisis-panel-body"> <ul> <li><a href="tel:988" tabindex='0' id="va-crisis-primary"><i class="fas fa-phone icon-left" aria-hidden="true"></i> Call <strong>988 (Press 1)</strong></a></li> <li><a href="sms:838255"><i class="fas fa-mobile-alt icon-left" aria-hidden="true"></i> Text to <b>838255</b></a></li> <li><a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/ChatTermsOfService.aspx?account=Veterans%20Chat"><i class="far fa-comments"></i> Chat <b>confidentially now</b></a></li> <li ><i class="fa fa-fw fa-deaf icon-left margin-right-2 margin-top-2 fa-lg" aria-hidden="true"></i><a href="tel:18007994889"> Call TTY if you have hearing loss <strong>1-800-799-4889</strong></a></li> </ul> <p>If you are in crisis or having thoughts of suicide, visit <a href="https://www.veteranscrisisline.net/">VeteransCrisisLine.net</a> for more resources.</p> </div> <button class="va-modal-close va-overlay-close" type="button" id="va-vcl-close-btn"><span class="usa-sr-only">Close this modal</span> <i class="far fa-times-circle fa-2x va-overlay-close usa-text-blue" aria-hidden="true" title="close this modal"></i> </button> </div> </div> <script src="/va_files/2014/responsive/scripts/crisis-modal2.js"></script> </body> </html>