PFAS exposure is an increasingly urgent issue within the veteran community, and understanding the risks and rights related to this environmental hazard is essential. If you served in the military, especially on certain U.S. military bases, there is a possibility that you were exposed to PFAS—often referred to as “forever chemicals.” These substances have been linked to a wide range of serious health issues, and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) is beginning to address how these exposures impact disability claims.
In this article, we’ll explain what PFAS are, how they affect veterans, what the VA is currently doing about them, and—most importantly—how many veterans file a VA claim when they believe a health condition is linked to PFAS exposure.
Table of Contents
What Are PFAS?
PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances—a group of synthetic chemicals used in manufacturing since the 1940s. They’ve been used in a wide range of consumer and industrial products including:
- Non-stick cookware (like Teflon)
- Water-resistant clothing
- Food packaging
- Industrial cleaners
- Firefighting foams
The nickname “forever chemicals” comes from their resilience. These substances do not break down easily in the environment or in the human body, which means they accumulate over time and can cause long-term exposure-related health effects.
PFAS Exposure in the Military
One of the most common sources of PFAS exposure in the military comes from aqueous film-forming foam (AFFF)—a fire suppression material used widely on U.S. military bases for training and emergency situations. AFFF contains high concentrations of PFAS, and its use has contaminated groundwater, soil, and drinking water on many installations.
Military personnel who worked in fire suppression, handled firefighting foam, or served on contaminated bases are at increased risk of PFAS exposure. This exposure could have been routine, long-term, and unintentional—but still harmful.
Health Risks of PFAS Exposure
Extensive research has shown that PFAS exposure may be linked to a number of serious health conditions. Veterans exposed to PFAS may suffer from:
- Kidney cancer
- Testicular cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Liver damage
- Thyroid disease
- Weakened immune function
- Reproductive issues
- High cholesterol
- Heart disease
These conditions are serious, and many may take years to develop after the initial exposure. Veterans suffering from these illnesses should consider whether PFAS exposure could have played a role in their diagnosis.
Does the VA Recognize PFAS-Related Illnesses?
As of now, PFAS-related illnesses are not on the VA’s presumptive list, meaning veterans must prove the connection between their service and the illness to receive disability benefits. However, the VA is actively studying the link between PFAS exposure and certain conditions such as kidney cancer.
The good news is that change may be on the horizon. Congress and numerous veteran advocacy groups are pushing for PFAS-related illnesses to be recognized more broadly by the VA. Some organizations calling for these changes include:
- Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
They have issued formal requests for legislative reform to include PFAS in VA policy. - Veterans Guide
Offers a summary of PFAS exposure routes and recent legal developments. - VA Public Health Office
Their PFAS exposure page lists affected bases and current VA initiatives. - News.va.gov
Features updates on VA-led research into PFAS and associated cancers. - PFAS Water Experts
Offers a comprehensive look at the long-term health effects of military-related PFAS exposure.
Filing a VA Disability Claim for PFAS-Related Conditions
If you believe your illness is related to PFAS exposure during military service, you can file a VA disability claim if you are an eligible veteran. Here are some considerations:
Step 1: Talk to Your Doctor
Discuss your symptoms and history with your physician. If they agree that your condition could be related to PFAS exposure, ask them to document this in your medical records. Their professional opinion can be vital to your claim.
Step 2: Identify Possible Exposure
Check to see if your service location is on the list of bases with known PFAS contamination. You can find this information on the VA’s official exposure page or through environmental investigation reports.
Additionally, review your Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) to see if it involved activities like firefighting, fuel handling, or hazardous waste cleanup.
Step 3: Collect Evidence
Strong claims are built on strong evidence. Consider gathering:
- Medical records
- In-service documentation
- Training or assignment records indicating exposure to AFFF
- Statements from fellow service members (buddy letters)
Step 4: File the Claim
Go to VA.gov to file a claim yourself or use their step-by-step disability guide. You can also:
- Get assistance from a Veteran Service Officer (VSO)
- Hire an accredited attorney or claims agent
- Use an accredited organization like DAV or VFW
The VA also offers a searchable database of accredited representatives through the Office of General Counsel.
What If Your Claim Is Denied?
Denials happen—but don’t give up. Many veterans have successfully appealed denied PFAS-related claims with the help of legal advocates. If your claim was rejected you have several options.
Advocacy and Legislative Updates
There is strong momentum behind efforts to better protect veterans impacted by PFAS. Ongoing lobbying efforts from organizations like DAV and pressure from Congress aim to:
- Add PFAS-related illnesses to the VA’s presumptive list
- Create automatic benefits for veterans stationed at contaminated sites
- Expand research and cleanup efforts on military bases
Veterans, VSOs, and advocacy groups must stay engaged and vocal. Policy change takes time, but it is often driven by personal stories, organized support, and persistence.
Final Thoughts
PFAS exposure is a real and ongoing health threat for many who served in the military. If you or a loved one is suffering from a condition that may be tied to this toxic exposure, do not ignore the possibility of a VA disability claim. You deserve access to care and benefits for injuries linked to your service.
If you’ve been denied before—try again. Seek help. Find professionals who will fight for you. And above all, stay informed. With legislation and awareness growing, the path to recognition and compensation for PFAS-related illnesses is improving every day.
Veterans stood up for our country. Now it’s time we stand up for them.
Also read: Seizure Disorders and VA Ratings
At Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting, a veteran-owned company, we specialize in Independent Medical Opinions (IMOs) known as Nexus letters.
Our purpose is to empower YOU, the veteran, to take charge of your medical evidence and provide you with valuable educational tools and research to guide you on your journey.
Understanding the unique challenges veterans face, our commitment lies in delivering exceptional service and support.
Leveraging an extensive network of licensed independent medical professionals, all well-versed in the medical professional aspects of the VA claims process, we review the necessary medical evidence to incorporate in our reports related to your VA Disability Claim.
Prestige Veteran Medical Consulting is not a law firm, accredited claims agent, or affiliated with the Veterans Administration or Veterans Services Organizations. However, we are happy to discuss your case with your accredited VA legal professional.
