Rampant Water Contamination at Military Bases

By now, it is well established that the water supply at the Camp Lejeune military base contained hazardous chemicals known to cause debilitating health conditions. Unfortunately, water contamination at military bases seems like it was much more rampant than initially estimated.

How Serious Is the Problem of Water Contamination at Military Bases?

At Camp Lejeune, industrial solvents, including trichloroethylene (TCE) and tetrachloroethylene (PCE), leaked into the water supply. Anyone stationed at Camp Lejeune between August 1953 and December 1987 was exposed to these chemicals.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the chemicals present in Camp Lejeune water are known to cause serious illnesses, including:

• Kidney cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Heart defects
• Bladder cancer
• Leukemia
• Multiple myeloma
• End-stage renal disease
• Parkinson disease
• Scleroderma

For a free legal consultation, call (725) 900-9000

Other Military Bases Also Had Water Contaminated with Toxic Chemicals

It is now believed that at least 12 military bases around the United States have contaminated water sources. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are used to manufacture products that are water-resistant and heat-resistant. However, these chemicals are also associated with severe health complications, including cancer.

According to a report released by the United States Government Accountability Office (GAO), military firefighters regularly used foam containing high levels of PFAS. This has led to water supply contamination at multiple military bases.

The Department of Defense (DoD) says steps have been taken to protect the military personnel and residents living near military bases with contaminated water. However, this does not address the long-term health consequences for those individuals who have already been exposed to dangerous chemicals.

Medical Conditions that PFAS Exposure May Cause

PFAS are used in manufacturing consumer products, but exposure to high amounts of PFAS can lead to severe and sometimes life-threatening health problems.

The CDC reports that PFAS have been associated with the following health conditions:

• Testicular cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Low birth weight
• High blood pressure and eclampsia in pregnant women
• Changes in liver enzymes
• Elevated cholesterol
• Decreased vaccine response

The individuals most at risk for serious health concerns caused by PFAS are pregnant women, elderly individuals, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions. However, healthy young people can also suffer devastating health problems from PFAS and other contaminants.

Toxic Chemicals Used for Fire Suppression Spilled in Hawaii

Many chemicals that contaminated the water supplies at several military bases are used to manufacture fire-resistant products or are used directly in firefighting efforts. While these chemicals can be beneficial when used safely and correctly, incorrect use or storage of the chemicals can be extremely dangerous.

In November 2022, over 1000 gallons of a fire suppressant chemical called Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF) spilled out of a container at the Red Hill Bulk Fuel Storage Facility in Hawaii. The military is still working to understand why and how the spill occurred.

Environmentalists Express Concerns About ‘Forever Chemicals’

Aqueous Film Forming Foam contains PFAS, the same toxic chemicals found in water supplies at military bases across the country. Many experts have expressed concerns about how this substance can contaminate the groundwater and endanger people working and living near the contamination sites.

The spill in Hawaii also drew outrage from environmentalists who worry about the long-term environmental effects of the spill. PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they do not degrade over time like other substances. This means that PFAS can exist permanently in the water or soil.

The EPA Is Overseeing Cleanup Efforts

Naval Facilities Engineering Systems Command employees are still cleaning up the spill and removing toxic soil from the area. In February 2023, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) granted an extension to the U.S. Navy to give personnel more time to clean up the spill and remove contaminants. However, the EPA granted the extension with the contingency that the Navy would provide additional documents and information about its environmental remediation efforts.

The EPA is also mandating PFAS sampling at nine groundwater monitoring wells in the area to ensure the spill has not contaminated the drinking water.

Lawsuits Regarding Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune

If you or a loved one has suffered an illness caused by exposure to tainted water at Camp Lejeune or rampant water contamination at another military base, you may be entitled to compensation. You could be compensated for illness-related expenses, such as medical bills and lost income, as well as your pain and suffering, impaired quality of life, and other non-economic losses.

Click to contact our personal injury lawyers today

Call Van Law Firm for Help If You Suffered Contaminated Water Exposure at a Military Base

Individuals who suffered cancer or other health problems caused by contaminated water may be able to file a lawsuit and collect monetary compensation.

Van Law is committed to helping Camp Lejeune water contamination victims get the compensation they deserve. Our attorneys can help you understand your rights and how to take legal action. We will walk you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.