Previously known as Fort Benning, Fort Moore is a United States Army post located in Columbus, Georgia. It serves as the primary training facility for infantry and armor soldiers, as well as home to several other combat support and combat service support units. Originally established in 1918 as Camp Benning, it has evolved over the years to become one of the largest military installations in the country.
Veterans’ exposure to certain factors during their service at For Benning could increase the risk of developing specific cancers.
Some of the cancers that have been studied and are potentially linked to military service at Fort Benning, include:
- 1. Lung cancer: Associated with exposure to chemicals, pollutants, and tobacco smoke.
- 2. Skin cancer: Exposure to sunlight, chemicals, and environmental toxins can contribute to various types of skin cancers.
- 3. Prostate cancer: While the exact cause is unclear, veterans may have an increased risk due to exposure to certain chemicals or other factors.
- 4. Bladder cancer: Potentially related to exposure to various chemicals and environmental contaminants.
- 5. Kidney cancer: Studies suggest an association with certain exposures like herbicides or solvents.
- 6. Leukemia: Some studies have indicated a possible connection to certain chemicals or radiation exposure during military service.
- 7. Breast cancer: Although rare in male veterans, exposure to certain chemicals or radiation has been suggested as a possible risk factor.
- 8. Lymphomas: Similar to leukemia, studies have hinted at possible connections between military service and various types of lymphomas.
PFAS
Veterans at Fort Moore/Fort Benning may be exposed to PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) through various pathways:
1. Contaminated groundwater: PFAS can contaminate groundwater supplies near military bases, including Fort Benning, due to their historical use in firefighting foams used during training exercises or emergencies. If the base’s drinking water sources are affected, veterans may be exposed to PFAS through consumption and daily activities involving water, like showering and cooking.
2. Contaminated soil: PFAS can also seep into the soil from firefighting training areas or waste disposal sites. If veterans come into contact with contaminated soil through activities such as gardening, working in construction, or recreational activities outdoors, they may be exposed to PFAS.
3. Airborne exposure: PFAS can be released into the air during firefighting training or incineration of materials containing PFAS. Inhaling contaminated air or dust particles may result in exposure for veterans stationed at Fort Benning.
It’s important to note that exposure levels and risks can vary depending on specific circumstances.
TCE
There are several potential ways that veterans at Fort Benning could be exposed to trichloroethylene (TCE).
1. Occupational Exposure: Veterans who served in occupations that involved working with or around TCE-containing products, such as solvents or degreasers, could have faced direct occupational exposure to TCE.
2. Groundwater Contamination: TCE can contaminate groundwater if it is improperly disposed of or spills occur. Veterans stationed at Fort Benning may have been exposed to TCE if they used or consumed water from contaminated sources, such as drinking water or bathing facilities.
3. Airborne Exposure: TCE can evaporate into the air, particularly in indoor environments, leading to potential inhalation exposure. Veterans may have been exposed to TCE if they worked or lived in buildings that had poor ventilation or were contaminated by TCE emissions from nearby industrial or hazardous waste sites.
4. Historic Hazards: In the past, TCE was widely used as a cleaning and degreasing agent in military installations. Veterans who served during periods when TCE use was prevalent may have been exposed to TCE through various military activities, including cleaning equipment or working in TCE-contaminated areas.
Long-term or high-level exposure to TCE has been associated with various health risks, including liver and kidney damage, immune system disorders, and certain types of cancer.