A soldier burns waste outside a U.S. military base near Musa Qala, Afghanistan, during operations in 2006. (Photo: Rodrigo Abd/AP)
A new VA study found that Veterans who reported multiple toxic exposures during military service were more likely to experience suicidal thoughts and behaviors than Veterans who did not report exposures.
The study, titled Toxic Exposure and Rates of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Among U.S. Military Veterans, was published April 15 in Psychiatry Research. Researchers reviewed data from 248,926 Veterans enrolled in VA’s Million Veteran Program, a national research program that studies how military service, lifestyle, and genetics may affect Veterans’ health.
Researchers looked at nine types of self-reported toxic exposure. Those included Agent Orange, chemical and biological weapons, the anthrax vaccine, solvents and fuels, petroleum combustion products, lead, other metals, pesticides, and open-air burn pits.
Stars and Stripes reported that the study found Veterans with more reported toxic exposures had 17% higher odds of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It also found that each additional exposure was linked to a 7.2% increase in risk. That pattern was seen across different service eras, including pre-Vietnam, Vietnam, post-Vietnam, Gulf War, and post-9/11 Veterans.
The findings do not mean toxic exposure directly causes suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Instead, researchers found that Veterans who reported more toxic exposures also had higher rates of PTSD and depression. Those conditions appeared to explain much of the link between toxic exposure and suicide risk.
The study also did not conclude that toxic exposure causes genetic changes. Researchers said more work is needed to understand whether toxic exposure may interact with a Veteran’s genetic vulnerability. They also said more research is needed to explain how exposure could lead to higher risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors over time.
The research adds to the ongoing discussion about the long-term effects of military toxic exposure. Veterans across every generation have reported health problems after contact with burn pits, chemicals, fuels, solvents, pesticides, herbicides, metals, and other hazardous substances during service.
Toxic exposure has often been linked to cancers, breathing problems, and other physical medical conditions. But this is one of the first major studies that focused on mental health outcomes, with early findings suggesting exposure history may also matter when providers assess suicide risk.
The authors said the findings could help medical providers offer better support and treatment for Veterans who report toxic exposures. Exposure history may be one part of a larger picture that includes PTSD, depression, and other mental health concerns. Screening for these issues could help identify Veterans who need support earlier.
Currently, the VA provides toxic exposure screenings for enrolled Veterans, and Gulf War Veterans may also qualify for a Gulf War Registry health exam and other VA benefits connected to medically unexplained illnesses linked to military service. Researchers suggest future screenings also include mental health checks.
Veterans in crisis can call 988 (and press 1) or text 838255 to reach the Veterans Crisis Line.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted family connection to the military, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
