On April 25, 2022, the Veterans Administration added nine rare cancers to the list of those things eligible for benefits and disability stemming from exposure to burn pits. The rare cancers added are:
- squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx
- squamous cell carcinoma of the trachea
- adenocarcinoma of the trachea
- salivary gland-type tumors of the trachea
- adenosquamous carcinoma of the lung
- large cell carcinoma of the lung
- salivary gland-type tumors of the lung
- sarcomatoid carcinoma of the lung
- typical and atypical carcinoid of the lung
Burn pits were common in overseas war zones and were used to incinerate dangerous waste including things such as medical items, hazardous materials, and fuel.
If you are afflicted with any disease linked to burn pit exposure and are not already receiving benefits, contact your local service officer to help you submit a claim.