Study: 'Forever chemicals' higher in younger veterans

A new study published in Environmental Health Perspectives has found that younger veterans between the ages of 20 and 39 have significantly higher levels of PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, in their bloodstream compared to civilians in the same age group. Researchers from Brown and Harvard universities discovered that young veterans had 13 to 24 percent higher concentrations of these so-called "forever chemicals" in their blood than their non-veteran peers.

PFAS are synthetic chemicals used in countless military and civilian products because they resist heat, water, and grease. In military settings, these substances are found in firefighting foam used at bases and airfields, weapons systems, and textile treatments for uniforms and gear. The chemicals earned the nickname "forever chemicals" because they do not break down naturally in the environment or the human body, instead accumulating over time and persisting in blood and tissue for years or even decades after exposure.

This study specifically examined veterans between ages 20 and 39, meaning it captures service members who likely served during the post-9/11 era and may still be on active duty or recently separated. While the research focused on this younger cohort, the findings raise questions about exposure levels across all veterans who trained or served on installations where PFAS-containing firefighting foam was routinely used or where contaminated water supplies have been documented. The study noted that male veterans showed higher PFAS concentrations than female veterans, though specific figures were not provided.

The health implications of elevated PFAS exposure are serious and well-documented. At least one type of PFAS, known as PFOS, has been directly linked to testicular cancer, while another type called PFOA is associated with kidney problems and increased kidney cancer risk. Beyond cancer, PFAS exposure has been connected to cardiovascular disease, thyroid dysfunction, low birth weight in children, developmental delays, and reduced effectiveness of vaccinations.

For disabled veterans, this study adds another dimension to the ongoing conversation about toxic exposures during military service. The PACT Act has already expanded VA health care and benefits eligibility for veterans exposed to burn pits and other toxins, but PFAS contamination represents a separate and pervasive exposure pathway that affects veterans who trained and lived on installations with contaminated water or soil. Understanding that younger veterans carry measurably higher levels of these persistent chemicals in their bodies underscores the importance of monitoring long-term health effects and ensuring the VA recognizes PFAS-related conditions in disability claims.

Veterans concerned about PFAS exposure should consider discussing screening options with their VA health care provider, particularly if they served on installations known to have water contamination issues or worked in roles involving regular contact with firefighting foam. Those experiencing health conditions associated with PFAS exposure, including thyroid problems, kidney disease, or certain cancers, should ensure their VA medical records document both their symptoms and potential exposure history. Working with a Veterans Service Organization can help navigate the claims process if a service connection between PFAS exposure and a current disability needs to be established, especially as research continues to clarify the health impacts of these chemicals on the veteran population.