In this episode we cover burn pit exposure and cancer that affects many veterans. Medical Oncologist Dr. Tony Jaslowski and Outagamie County Veterans Service Officer (CVSO) Kell Bales discuss the health crisis stemming from military burn pits and the landmark legislation designed to help. The guests break down the extensive use of open-air burn pits used to dispose of everything from trash and fuel to chemicals and medical waste and the subsequent illnesses years later. They then detail the passing of the PACT Act in 2022, a law that significantly expands VA healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to these toxic substances, explaining what the “presumptive conditions” list means for getting care and why it is critical for veterans, even those who are hesitant, to file a claim.
“If you’re not gonna do it for yourself, please consider doing it for your family, for your spouse, for your kids. ‘Cause certain benefit levels will open up new opportunities.” – Kell Bales
On this episode of Cancer Covered, you’ll learn:
- What the inhalation of burn pit smoke and its complex mix of toxins does to the body over time, and the cancers and respiratory illnesses (like lymphomas, kidney cancer, and COPD) believed to be connected.
- How the PACT Act created “presumptive conditions,” meaning the VA presumes a connection between a diagnosis and service in a burn pit area, simplifying the claims process for veterans.
- How veterans can enroll in the Burn Pit Registry and VA healthcare, and the difference between receiving care directly from the VA versus through the Community Care program with a local oncologist.
- Why many veterans are hesitant to file for benefits, and the critical role of the Veterans Service Officer (VSO) in providing free, expert assistance to ensure veterans receive the benefits they’ve earned.
- How increased documentation and studies spurred by the PACT Act may shape future research and lead to a deeper biological understanding of these cancers, potentially improving treatments.
Helpful links to learn more:
- The PACT Act and your VA benefits: https://www.va.gov/resources/the-pact-act-and-your-va-benefits/
- Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry: https://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/burnpits/registry.asp
- VA Health Care: https://www.va.gov/health-care/
- Find your local VSO
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