Some Servicemembers may have been exposed to fuels, such as diesel and JP-8, used to operate vehicles in deployment settings.
Possible health effects depend on how they were exposed (skin, oral, or breathing), length of time exposed, and personal factors such as age, gender, genetic traits, and diet.
If you are concerned about fuel exposure during military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator.
Symptoms of exposure to fuels
Health effects may include irritation to unprotected skin, eye and upper respiratory irritation, fatigue, breathing difficulty, headaches, dizziness, and sleep disturbances. Drinking fuels is dangerous and may result in convulsions, coma and even death.
Scientific research on long-term effects is not conclusive. However, if an individual is exposed to large amounts of fuel for a long period of time, research shows there is a potential for health effects, such as lung and heart problems.
Health concerns?
If you are concerned about fuel exposure during military service, talk to your health care provider or local VA Environmental Health Coordinator.
Veterans not enrolled in the VA health care system, find out if you qualify for VA health care.
VA benefits
Veterans may be eligible for VA disability compensation benefits and health care benefits for health problems associated with exposure to fuels during military service.
Veterans' dependents and survivors also may be eligible for benefits. Read Federal Benefits for Veterans, Dependents and Survivors to learn more.
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