A worrying pattern of cancer among missile facility veterans raises alarms.
Thomas Novelly reports for Military.com.
In short:
- Veterans who worked at Cold War-era nuclear missile facilities are increasingly being diagnosed with cancers suspected to be related to exposure to carcinogens like PCBs, lead and asbestos.
- Investigations suggest the U.S. government has neglected evidence of cancer clusters, complicating veterans' claims for related health benefits.
- A new study is underway to assess the risk of cancer among missileers, prompted by persistent health concerns and reports of potential carcinogen exposure.
Key quote:
"I knew 20 years ago. People would talk to me and say, 'Hey, some of these guys have cancer.' And now I know all those guys' names and I know their families and their stories."
— Danny Sebeck, Space Force officer
Why this matters:
The technology of the Cold War era, including radar and communication systems, often utilized materials or emitted radiation levels that, today, are known to pose health risks. For more, check out this story about a Cold War-era military site that continues to pollute fish and Yupik people.
