Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn (March 19, 2003 – Dec. 15, 2011)
Iraq War Veterans may have been exposed to a range of environmental and chemical hazards that carried potential health risks. VA offers eligible Veterans a free Gulf War Registry health exam for possible long-term health problems related to Gulf War service, including during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation New Dawn.
Sand, Dust and Particulates
Tiny airborne matter that can cause respiratory and other health problems
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Burn Pits
Open-air pit waste disposal at military sites
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Infectious Diseases
Nine infectious diseases associated with Southwest Asia and Afghanistan military service
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Depleted Uranium
Uranium used in military tank armor and some bullets
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Toxic Embedded Fragments
Shrapnel and other metals that remain in the body after injury
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Noise
Harmful sounds from guns, equipment, and machinery that is often experienced during military service
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Traumatic Brain Injury
Concussions and brain injury often caused by explosions
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Rabies
Disease transmitted by bite or saliva from an infected warm-blooded animal
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Mefloquine - Lariam®
Round, white pill taken to prevent and treat malaria
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Heat Injuries
Possible health problems from extremely hot temperatures
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Sulfur Fire (Al Mishraq, Iraq)
Sulfur plant burned almost a month in June 2003; large amounts of sulfur dioxide released into the air
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Chromium (Qarmat Ali)
Hexavalent chromium in contaminated sodium dichromate dust; water treatment plant in 2003
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Occupational Hazards
Exposures from working with chemicals, paints, and machinery during service
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For VA compensation purposes, Iraq War Veterans with qualifying service are considered Gulf War Veterans and may be eligible for disability compensation for Gulf War Veterans' illnesses.