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Your thyroid controls important bodily functions like metabolism, energy, and hormone regulation. If you develop thyroid disease, you may experience various health problems. Sometimes thyroid disease is caused by age or genetics. However, exposure to harmful chemicals can also increase your risk. For military personnel, the threat from per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) is especially serious.

PFAS, also called “forever chemicals,” remain in the environment and the body for a long time. As a result, they may raise service members’ risks of thyroid disease. If you were exposed to PFAS during your military service, it’s important to understand your rights. New policies and various legal options are helping veterans with thyroid disease get the benefits they deserve. Our experts are here to help, so contact us today to speak with a representative.

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Thyroid Disease Among Military Personnel

Thyroid disease is becoming increasingly prevalent among military personnel, and research indicates that military members may be at higher risk of thyroid disease compared to the general public. This may be due to considerable exposure to toxic chemicals like PFAS.

PFAS have been used in military settings for decades. However, they have been linked to higher rates of hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis. A 2018 study found more than 40,000 diagnoses of thyroid conditions among active-duty service members over a 10-year period. Veterans exposed to PFAS may also face a 56% increased risk of developing thyroid cancer.

PFAS Exposure and Thyroid Dysfunction

PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that are very resistant to water, heat, cold, and oil. They have been used extensively in products such as nonstick cookware and food packaging. Due to their durability, they are often found on military bases, including in aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF), a type of firefighting foam.

Once PFAS enter the environment or the human body, they can take a long time to break down, accumulating to unsafe levels. Research suggests PFAS exposure puts humans at risk of various thyroid dysfunctions. PFAS’ effects on metabolism and the production of thyroid hormones may lead to conditions such as:

  • Hypothyroidism: A condition where the thyroid does not produce enough hormones, leading to fatigue, weight gain, and depression, among other symptoms.
  • Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: An autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the thyroid, causing hypothyroidism.
  • Graves’ disease: An autoimmune disorder that causes an overactive thyroid. Symptoms include bulging eyes, weight loss, anxiety, and irritability.

Other diseases related to PFAS exposure

Thyroid disease is not the only condition linked to PFAS exposure. Alongside thyroid cancer, other health problems associated with these chemicals include:

  • Testicular cancer
  • Prostate cancer
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Skin cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Ovarian cancer
  • Liver disease
  • High cholesterol
  • Cardiovascular disease
  • Neurological problems
  • Kidney disease
  • Kidney cancer

PFAS exposure can also lead to pregnancy complications, low birth weights, and developmental issues in newborns.

Symptoms of Thyroid Disease in Military Veterans

It’s crucial for active-duty service members and veterans to watch for symptoms of thyroid disease. Thyroid problems may develop slowly and become chronic. They can also increase your risk of other health issues, such as metabolic problems, cardiovascular complications, and immune system issues. However, early diagnosis may improve your long-term outlook.

Common symptoms of thyroid disease include:

  • Fatigue
  • Weight gain or loss
  • Sensitivity to cold or heat
  • Hair thinning or loss
  • Eye problems
  • Mood swings, depression, or anxiety
  • Muscle weakness
  • Joint or muscle pain
  • Irregular or slow heartbeat
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Enlarged thyroid (goiter)
  • Bulging eyes

Both veterans and active-duty military personnel should receive regular medical care and thyroid testing. Early detection of thyroid conditions may improve treatment options and prognosis.

Military personnel and veterans diagnosed with PFAS-related thyroid disorders have options for seeking compensation. One option is to file a disability claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, doing so may require proving that your thyroid condition is linked to PFAS exposure during your service. Many veterans have also filed claims or lawsuits to cover medical expenses and damages caused by PFAS-related thyroid issues. Working with an experienced attorney may improve your chances of a successful outcome.

How to Determine if You Were Exposed to PFAS in the Military

If you believe you were exposed to PFAS during your military service, various resources may help you investigate the issue. We’ve compiled a comprehensive list of military bases with known toxic contamination. Other resources include:

Additionally, various support groups may help service members and veterans with thyroid disease.

Common military occupations with PFAS exposure risks

PFAS and other chemicals are widespread on military bases, which means all service members may be at risk. However, some military occupations may have higher exposure risks.

For example, firefighters may encounter PFAS-containing firefighting foams, while aircraft mechanics may handle parts coated with the chemicals. Supply personnel, hazardous materials handlers, and environmental safety officers may also face exposure during delivery, cleanup, and monitoring efforts. Additionally, construction engineers and demolition teams could be exposed during their projects. If you worked in any of these roles, ask your doctor to test your thyroid levels.

Environmental exposure is another concern. Many military personnel have been exposed to toxic burn pits used to dispose of hazardous materials like chemicals, plastics, and medical waste. Service members around these pits may have inhaled toxic fumes containing PFAS. Contaminated water on military bases may have exposed service members and their families to PFAS. While cleanup is ongoing, the health effects of these exposures remain a concern.

PFAS Prevention and Monitoring on Military Bases

Growing concern about PFAS exposure has led to efforts to regulate and eliminate their use in the military. Many military bases are reducing or banning certain firefighting foams containing PFAS. Additionally, bases are regularly testing the environment and water to check PFAS levels. Cleanup efforts are underway at severely contaminated bases, and advanced water treatment systems are being installed to remove these harmful chemicals.

Legislation to Prevent PFAS Contamination on Military Installations

Recent laws have prompted the military to take action on PFAS contamination. For example, the Department of Defense must now stop using many PFAS-based materials and focus on cleaning up contaminated sites. The EPA and other regulators require more water and environmental monitoring. In addition, there’s a push to ensure that veterans affected by PFAS exposure can more easily qualify for benefits. If you have a thyroid condition related to your service, a legal expert can help you pursue your claim.

Contact a PFAS Lawyer if You Have Thyroid Disease

If you’ve developed thyroid disease because of your military service, you are not alone. Navigating the benefits process can feel challenging, but our experienced legal team is here to help. We’ll help you explore your options for seeking compensation related to thyroid conditions from military service. Contact us today to get the process started.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How does PFAS exposure in the military impact thyroid function? 

Research suggests that ongoing PFAS exposure can disrupt thyroid function. These chemicals may interfere with metabolism and thyroid hormone production, potentially leading to diseases such as hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, and thyroiditis.

Which PFAS chemicals are most frequently associated with thyroid disease among military personnel?  

There are multiple PFAS chemicals, and many may increase the risk of thyroid conditions. PFAS, as a group, are known to disrupt thyroid function, which may lead to various disorders, including thyroid cancer.

What are the most common thyroid conditions linked to PFAS exposure?  

The thyroid conditions most commonly linked to PFAS exposure include hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid), Graves’ disease, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, and thyroid cancer.

How long after PFAS exposure on military bases does it take for thyroid health to be affected?  

Symptoms of thyroid disease may develop slowly following PFAS exposure. Even if you served in the military years ago, you could be out of the service before your condition is diagnosed.

Can veterans establish a connection between thyroid disease and PFAS exposure during their service?

Veterans may be able to link their thyroid condition to PFAS exposure while in the military. You will likely need medical evidence proving your diagnosis, as well as proof that you served on a military base with known PFAS contamination. Military Hazards’ list of contaminated military bases is a great place to start.

What should I do if I suspect I have a thyroid disorder related to PFAS exposure?  

If you suspect you have a thyroid condition, your first step is to seek medical care. The earlier you begin treatment, the better your prognosis may be. Afterward, consult a legal expert experienced in military benefits to explore your compensation options.

Are certain military bases known for higher rates of thyroid disease due to PFAS contamination?  

Some military bases are well-known for PFAS contamination. Veterans who served at these bases may be at higher risk of thyroid disease and other conditions.

Are the family members of military personnel also at risk for thyroid disorders caused by PFAS exposure?  

PFAS chemicals on military bases can contaminate the air, water, and surrounding environment. Beyond service members, their family members living on or near military bases may also be at risk of exposure.

Can military personnel receive disability benefits for thyroid disease?  

Veterans with thyroid disease can file disability claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). However, they may need to prove their illness is linked to PFAS exposure during military service.

Is thyroid disease considered a presumptive condition by the VA?

In some cases, the VA may consider thyroid disease a presumptive condition. In these instances, the affected veteran does not need to prove their illness was caused by military service. Instead, the military will automatically “presume” the connection. However, not all thyroid disease cases qualify as presumptive. Affected veterans should speak with a legal representative to explore their options.