Service-Related Conditions for Afghanistan War Vets
Dedicated attorneys help vets across the country get the benefits they deserve
Troops deployed to Afghanistan had to cope with more than the perils of combat. An unforgiving terrain, harsh climate and exposure to caustic chemical agents complicated the time they spent in the country, and may have created long-term health risks. At Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban, our VA benefits attorneys want to make sure you understand those risks, so you can apply for benefits in a timely manner and get the assistance you deserve.
Exposure risks for Afghan War veterans
The VA recognizes that service in Operation Enduring Freedom, from October 7, 2001 to the present, exposed veterans to a variety of health risks. These include:
- Burn pits — Open-air waste disposal exposes troops to fumes from burning chemicals, paint, medical and human waste, munitions and other unexploded ordnance, petroleum and lubricant products, plastics, rubber, wood and discarded food.
- Cold injuries — The mountainous regions of Afghanistan have harsh winters with freezing temperatures that can cause hypothermia, frostbite and other cold-related conditions.
- Depleted uranium — The US military uses depleted uranium in armor-piercing projectiles. The element is far less radioactive than natural uranium but is just as toxic. Serious health problems can result from internal exposure through wounds, inhalation or ingestion.
- Mefloquine — The rare serious side-effects of this anti-malaria medication include anxiety, paranoia, depression, hallucinations, suicidal thoughts, muscle fatigue, irregular heartbeat and lung problems.
- Noise — Hearing loss can result from loud explosions, which also contribute to post-traumatic stress disorder.
- Occupational hazards — Military deployment often entails working with heavy machinery and industrial chemicals that can induce occupational illnesses.
- Rabies — Humans can contract this potentially deadly disease through animal bites or contact with an infected animal’s saliva.
- Sand, dust and particulates — The southern region of Afghanistan is desert terrain where inhalation of fine particulates is virtually unavoidable.
- Toxic embedded fragments — Contaminated shrapnel from improvised explosive devices can introduce deadly chemicals into a victim’s bloodstream.
- Traumatic brain injury — Explosions or projectiles produce concussive force or penetrate the skull destroying brain tissue and causing a variety of cognitive impairments.
If you’ve had your VA benefits denied, our experienced and credentialed attorneys can manage your appeal through every step of the process. Wherever you are across the country, our firm can provide the aggressive and committed representation necessary to secure your claim for benefits.
Contact a VA benefits lawyer committed to helping Afghan War veterans
If you or a veteran you love is suffering from a condition related to Afghan War service, Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban may be able to help. We charge no fees unless we secure the benefits you deserve. Call us today at 866-866-VETS or contact us online.
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— Alfred Daye
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— Harry Johnson
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— Luther Henderson
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— Michele DeZayas
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— Michele DeZayas
