From the Research
Burn pit injuries can manifest in various respiratory, dermatological, and systemic symptoms, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting that exposure to burn pit emissions is associated with a higher risk of self-reported emphysema, chronic bronchitis, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 1. The manifestations of burn pit injuries can be diverse and may include:
- Respiratory symptoms such as chronic cough, shortness of breath, wheezing, and reduced lung function
- Dermatological symptoms like rashes, irritation, and unusual lesions
- Systemic symptoms including unexplained fatigue, headaches, joint pain, gastrointestinal issues, and sleep disturbances
- Neurological symptoms like memory problems, difficulty concentrating, and mood changes
- Increased risk of rare cancers, particularly of the respiratory system The toxic smoke from burn pits contains numerous harmful chemicals, including dioxins, particulate matter, heavy metals, and volatile organic compounds, which can damage tissues throughout the body, particularly in the respiratory system where they first make contact 2, 3. Medical evaluation should include comprehensive pulmonary function tests, imaging studies, and possibly bronchoscopy for those with suspected burn pit-related conditions, as these symptoms may develop gradually after exposure and can persist for years, with some veterans experiencing multiple symptoms simultaneously 1, 4. It is essential to note that the current evidence suggests that burn pit exposure is associated with a higher incidence of post-deployment self-reported respiratory and cardiovascular conditions, but these findings should be interpreted with caution due to the surrogate measurements of burn pit emissions exposure 2. However, the most recent study 1 provides the strongest evidence for the association between burn pit exposure and respiratory conditions, and therefore, medical professionals should prioritize comprehensive evaluation and management of respiratory symptoms in individuals exposed to burn pits.