Burn or open-air pits are used in military base camps to incinerate waste. These burn pits have caused significant health concerns for veterans returning from deployments, especially those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Severe health conditions faced by Veterans exposed to burn pits, including, but not limited to, respiratory problems, certain cancers, and neurological disorders, have been attributed to exposure to the toxic fumes emitted from these pits.
Veterans, particularly those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan, were confronted with the hazards of burn pits. These pits burned multiple substances, including plastics, tires, medical waste, and even human remains, emitting toxic chemicals such as dioxins, heavy metals, and particulate matter into the air. Veterans who inhale these harmful and poisonous substances develop various health issues
Health Issues Attributed to Burn Pit Exposure
Veterans exposed to the toxic fumes from burn pits are at risk of developing severe health conditions. Some of the most prevalent health issues faced by these veterans include, but are not limited to:
Respiratory problems: Veterans often develop respiratory problems, including, but not limited to, chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and sinus issues, due to their exposure to the toxic smoke emitted by burn pits.
Cancers: Several cancers have been linked to burn pit exposure. Some of these cancers include lung cancer, mesothelioma, and prostate cancer.
Neurological Disorders: Veterans may experience symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, memory problems, cognitive decline, and other neurological concerns.
Other Health Conditions: Burn pit exposure has also been associated with a variety of different health problems, including heart disease, kidney disease, and autoimmune disorders.
Veteran Affairs Benefits for Veterans Exposed to Burn Pit
Acknowledging the grave health risks associated with exposure to burn pits, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has taken proactive steps to address the needs of affected veterans. Recognizing the link between burn pit exposure and certain illnesses, the VA has established a presumption of service connection policy. Under this policy, veterans who served in designated areas during specific periods are automatically eligible for VA benefits if they develop any health conditions tied to the effects of burn pits exposure. This support from the VA provides reassurance and hope to affected veterans.
The VA provides a range of benefits to veterans affected by burn pit exposure. These benefits include, but are not limited to:
Medical Care: The VA provides comprehensive medical care for veterans suffering from conditions related to burn pit exposure. Medical care may include treatment, rehabilitation, and prescription medications.
Disability Compensation: Veterans with service-connected disabilities related to burn pit exposure may be eligible for disability compensation, which provides monthly payments based on the severity of their disability.
Vocational Rehabilitation: The VA offers vocational rehabilitation services to help disabled veterans find and maintain employment.
Home Health Care: Veterans who cannot care for themselves may be eligible for home health care services.
Life insurance: The VA offers a variety of life insurance programs for veterans and their families.
Navigating the VA benefits system can be complex and time-consuming. Veterans suffering from health issues related to their service often face difficulties in obtaining the benefits they have earned. To overcome these challenges, veterans should seek legal assistance from attorneys specializing in VA benefits. These legal professionals can provide crucial support, including but not limited to assisting in gathering and presenting evidence, advocating during appeals, and protecting veterans’ legal rights. With the help of experienced attorneys, veterans can avoid common mistakes that could result in benefit denials. This legal assistance can be instrumental in helping veterans obtain the benefits they need to heal, improve their quality of life, and move forward with confidence.
At McKown and Myers, it’s our job to help Hoosiers like you get the compensation they need to get medical treatment and support their families. We’re here to answer your questions about navigating the VA benefits system – call 765-668-7531 or complete our contact form here. There’s no obligation – we’re here to help.