The VA is studying the impact of fuel, especially among military maintainers and operations staff.

A recent VA press release highlights the agency’s ongoing research into the health effects of jet fuel exposure among veterans, stating that while some scientific evidence links military service-related jet fuel exposure to potential health issues.

According to Army Command Sergeant Major E.G. Mais, the San Antonio post 8541 service officer,  preliminary research is showing veterans could experience respiratory problems, kidney and bladder cancers, and nervous system impacts.

“More research is needed to definitively connect exposure to specific health conditions and understand the long-term effects based on exposure duration and immediate symptoms; the VA is actively reviewing data and submitting reports to Congress to inform future policy decisions on veteran care related to fuel exposure,” said Mais, a retired Army aviator.

Mais noted veterans concerned about health problems associated with health problems associated with jet fuel exposure during their military career should contact a VA Environmental Health Coordinator.

They should also contact their accredited veteran service officer like Mais to file a claim.