Examining the Contaminated Water Supply of Camp Lejeune

Understanding Vapor Intrusion

Vapor intrusion occurs when volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as trichloroethene and chloroform, migrate from contaminated groundwater or soil into the air of overlying buildings. This process poses a significant health risk as it can lead to indoor air pollution, often without the occupants’ knowledge.

• VOCs can vaporize into the air or dissolve in water, frequently contaminating drinking water supplies.
• Long-term exposure to high levels of VOCs can increase the risk of cancer and cause issues with the kidney, liver, immune system, and nervous system.

Recent groundwater testing at Camp Lejeune’s wells SW-1 and SW-33 has revealed concerning levels of trichloroethene and chloroform, highlighting the risk of vapor intrusion. This invisible threat underscores the importance of regular monitoring and remediation efforts to protect public health.

Health Risks of Trichloroethene and Chloroform

The health implications of exposure to trichloroethene (TCE) and chloroform, two contaminants found in the water supply at Camp Lejeune, are a cause for concern. TCE, an industrial cleaner used for degreasing metal parts, has been linked to several types of cancer. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have identified connections between TCE and cancers of the kidney, liver, and lymphatic system.

Chloroform, another hazardous substance detected in groundwater, poses its own set of risks. While less is known about the long-term effects of chloroform exposure, it is widely recognized as a byproduct of water disinfection processes and has been associated with the development of cancer and potential risks to reproductive health.

Recent groundwater testing at wells SW-1 and SW-33 has shown levels of trichloroethene and chloroform exceeding safety criteria, raising alarms about the risk of vapor intrusion. This process, where volatile chemicals from contaminated groundwater evaporate into the air, can lead to further exposure and health complications for individuals residing in affected areas. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has reported concentrations of chloroform significantly above health guidelines, indicating a severe contamination issue.

The following list outlines the primary health risks associated with TCE and chloroform exposure:

• Kidney cancer
• Liver cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Other forms of cancer
• Potential reproductive health issues

As investigations continue, the full extent of the health risks posed by these contaminants at Camp Lejeune remains a critical area of study.

Recent Findings from Wells SW-1 and SW-33

In September 2022, a concerning discovery was made at Camp Lejeune. Groundwater tests at wells SW-1 and SW-33 indicated the presence of trichloroethene and chloroform, with concentrations exceeding the established screening criteria. This revelation has heightened concerns regarding the potential for vapor intrusion, a process where volatile chemicals from contaminated groundwater transition into harmful air pollutants.

The findings have also underscored the broader issue of water contamination at military installations. For instance, Fort Detrick’s water supply has been repeatedly tested positive for PFOS and PFOA, with the latest reports in November 2022 confirming the persistence of these harmful substances. The Environmental Working Group’s (EWG) contamination map further illustrates the severity of the situation, showing high levels of groundwater contamination across various sites.

The implications of these findings are significant, not only for the environment but also for the health of military personnel and residents. The presence of such contaminants in drinking water sources poses a serious risk, necessitating immediate and effective remediation efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of affected communities.

Legal Recourse for Affected Individuals

The Role of Robert King Law Firm

The Robert King Law Firm has positioned itself as a pivotal player in the legal battles surrounding the contaminated water supply at Camp Lejeune. With a strong commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the medical implications of exposure to toxic substances, the firm offers a beacon of hope for those seeking justice.

Key aspects of the firm’s involvement include:

• Leveraging medical expertise to ensure the accuracy of information regarding health consequences.
• Providing general information to educate affected individuals about their legal options.
• Emphasizing the importance of an attorney-client relationship to navigate the complexities of the lawsuit.

It is important to note that the information provided by the firm is for general purposes and should not be construed as legal advice for any specific case. The firm’s past results do not guarantee similar outcomes for new clients, but they do reflect a history of dedication to those impacted by environmental negligence.

Navigating the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit

The journey through the Camp Lejeune lawsuit can be complex and daunting for those affected by the contaminated water supply. The Robert King Law Firm has been instrumental in guiding individuals through the legal process, leveraging extensive investigative experience to uncover the extent of toxic exposure at the military base.

Key steps in the lawsuit process include:

1. Eligibility Assessment: Determining if an individual’s circumstances qualify for a claim under the specific criteria of the Camp Lejeune lawsuit.
2. Filing a Claim: The actual submission of a claim, which requires careful documentation of exposure and related health issues.
3. Evidence Gathering: Collecting and presenting evidence to support the claim, including medical records and expert testimonies.
4. Legal Representation: Working with experienced attorneys who can navigate the intricacies of the lawsuit and advocate on behalf of the claimant.

It is essential for claimants to understand what happened at Camp Lejeune and how it has affected their health. With the support of legal experts like Robert King and Mike Stag, individuals seeking justice have a resource to turn to for help in filing their claims and fighting for rightful compensation.

Steps to File a Claim for Water Contamination

Filing a claim for water contamination is a process that requires careful attention to detail and adherence to specific legal steps. Individuals seeking to file a claim must first confirm their eligibility, which includes having been exposed for at least six months and having a diagnosis of a related health condition.

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to consult with an attorney who specializes in environmental litigation and toxic torts. The attorney will review the case details and guide the claimant through the filing process. It is essential to provide the attorney with comprehensive documentation to substantiate the period of exposure and the development of health conditions linked to the contamination.

The process can be lengthy, often taking several months or more to reach a resolution. An experienced attorney will not only help in understanding the expected timeline and filing deadlines but also in gathering the necessary evidence to build a strong claim. This evidence may include medical records, military service documentation, and any other relevant information that supports the claim of exposure and subsequent health issues.

It is crucial to seek legal counsel promptly to avoid missing out on the opportunity for compensation due to statute of limitations or other legal deadlines. The following list outlines the general steps to file a claim:

1. Verify eligibility based on exposure duration and health condition diagnosis.
2. Consult with a qualified attorney to initiate the claim.
3. Collect and provide all pertinent evidence to your attorney.
4. Understand the timeline and stay informed about the progress of your case.

Fort Detrick’s Troubled Waters

PFOS and PFOA: The Toxic Duo

In 2020, Fort Detrick’s water supply faced a significant challenge when tests revealed the presence of PFOS and PFOA, two chemicals known for their persistence in the environment and potential to cause harm to human health. The water quality report indicated levels of 4.2 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOS and 2.7 ppt for PFOA, alongside the presence of trihalomethanes surpassing regulatory limits.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has since revised the health advisory levels for these substances to far lower concentrations than previously established, setting the bar at 0.004 ppt for PFOA and 0.02 ppt for PFOS. This change reflects a growing understanding of the risks associated with even minimal exposure to these chemicals.

Despite the updated advisories, Fort Detrick’s water had historically been assessed against the outdated threshold of 70 ppt for PFAS, leading to a delayed response in addressing the contamination. The implications of this oversight are profound, as military personnel and their families may have been exposed to toxic drinking water for an extended period. The health risks linked to PFAS exposure include a range of serious conditions, such as various forms of cancer, thyroid disease, and reduced vaccine efficacy.

Water Treatment Efforts and Challenges

The quest for clean water at Fort Detrick has been marked by a series of efforts and challenges. Traditional water filtration and treatment methods have been employed, including the introduction of a new ultraviolet disinfection system in 2016. Despite these measures, the termination of an agreement with Frederick County in December 2020, which had provided safe drinking water since September 2012, has posed new challenges for the facility.

The water treatment process at Fort Detrick has historically included several steps:

• Initial coagulation and flocculation to remove suspended particles.
• Sedimentation to allow heavier particles to settle.
• Filtration to remove smaller particulate matter.
• Disinfection to eliminate pathogens.
• Corrosion control to protect distribution systems.

However, the presence of contaminants such as PFAS has necessitated additional measures beyond the standard treatment protocols. The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has reported levels of various contaminants, including chloroform and haloacetic acids, significantly exceeding health guidelines. This underscores the ongoing struggle to ensure that the water supply is not only compliant with current standards but also safe for all who rely on it.

Health Implications for Veterans and Residents

The water contamination at Fort Detrick has left a lasting impact on the health of veterans, their families, and nearby residents. Prolonged exposure to contaminants such as TCE, PCE, and PFAS has been linked to an array of serious health conditions. A recent study in July 2023 underscored a direct connection between PFAS exposure and an increased incidence of testicular cancer among service members.

The health risks associated with the contaminated water include, but are not limited to:

• Kidney cancer
• Testicular cancer
• Thyroid cancer
• Thyroid disease
• Ulcerative colitis
• Bladder cancer
• Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Hodgkin’s lymphoma
• Leukemia
• Male breast cancer
• Prostate cancer
• Liver cancer

Despite the alarming health advisories, a comprehensive cleanup plan remains elusive. The focus has been on bases with the highest levels of contamination, leaving those affected by Fort Detrick’s water quality issues in a state of uncertainty. The absence of a clear remediation strategy continues to pose a threat to the health and well-being of the Fort Detrick community.

A Closer Look at Contaminants and Chemicals

The Environmental Working Group’s Findings

The Environmental Working Group (EWG) has played a pivotal role in uncovering the extent of water contamination issues. Through its Tap Water Database, the EWG has identified a range of cancer-related contaminants that have exceeded health guidelines at various locations, including Fort Detrick. From 2014 to 2019, the database highlighted several substances that surpassed the EWG’s Health Guidelines by significant multiples:

• 1,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane (DCBP): 2.9 times the guideline
• Bromodichloromethane: 139 times the guideline
• Chloroform: 65 times the guideline
• Dibromochloromethane: 9.3 times the guideline
• Haloacetic acids (HAA5): 400 times the guideline
• Nitrate: 17 times the guideline
• Trihalomethanes (TTHMs): 381 times the guideline

These findings raise serious concerns about the potential health risks to individuals exposed to such high levels of contaminants. The EWG’s efforts have not only brought these issues to light but have also provided a valuable resource for understanding the prevalence of toxic substances in tap water. It is important to note that while guidelines and advisories serve as important indicators of water quality, they are not legally enforceable limits. This distinction underscores the need for greater regulatory measures to ensure the safety of water supplies.

Risks Associated with TCE, PCE, and PFAS

The contaminants TCE, PCE, and PFAS have been identified as significant health risks, particularly for military personnel and residents near contaminated sites. TCE, primarily used in industrial cleaners for degreasing metal parts, is associated with various cancers, including kidney and liver cancer, as well as lymphoma. PCE, found in industrial solvents and degreasers, has been linked to bladder cancer, non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and multiple myeloma.

PFAS, a group of chemicals found in a wide range of consumer products, poses severe health risks. Exposure to PFAS is connected to numerous conditions such as bladder and breast cancer, thyroid disease, and reduced vaccine efficacy. The widespread use and persistence of these chemicals in the environment make them a concern for long-term health implications.

The presence of these toxins in water supplies, such as those at Fort Detrick and Camp Lejeune, has led to increased scrutiny and calls for action. Veterans and their families, who may have been exposed to these chemicals from 1953 to 1987, are particularly at risk and have the option to seek compensation for health issues stemming from this exposure.

Expert Testimonies on Toxin Exposure and Illness

The weight of expert testimonies has been pivotal in drawing the connection between toxin exposure and subsequent illnesses among those affected by contaminated water supplies. Environmental studies and other forms of reliable information have consistently supported the claims of individuals who have suffered health consequences as a result of toxic exposure.

Key points from expert testimonies include:

• The direct correlation between exposure to specific toxins and the development of related illnesses.
• The long-term health effects that may not surface until years after the initial exposure.
• The importance of thorough investigations to establish the full impact of the contamination.

These testimonies have not only been instrumental in legal battles but have also underscored the need for rigorous environmental oversight and the implementation of preventive measures to safeguard public health. The expertise brought forth by individuals like those at the Robert King Law Firm, and the fact-checking by professionals such as John Boxberger, PhD, lend credibility to the ongoing investigations and the pursuit of justice for those affected.

The Fight for Clean Water: Advocacy and Awareness

Raising Public Awareness of Water Contamination

The fight against water contamination has been gaining momentum, with public awareness at the forefront of this battle. Knowledge is power, and informing the public about the dangers of toxic substances in their water supply is crucial. Through various channels, including media coverage, community meetings, and social media campaigns, the message is spreading that clean water is a fundamental human right.

• Media coverage has played a pivotal role in uncovering the extent of water contamination issues, such as those at Camp Lejeune and Fort Detrick. By bringing these stories to light, journalists have helped to amplify the voices of those affected.
• Community meetings provide a platform for residents and experts to discuss the impact of toxic exposure and strategize on ways to address the contamination.
• Social media campaigns have the power to reach a wide audience quickly, raising awareness and support for clean water initiatives.

The involvement of lawmakers is also essential in this process. For instance, Maryland’s Senator Ben Cardin expressed his concerns, stating that ensuring safety and federal responsibility is paramount. As awareness grows, so does the pressure on government agencies to take decisive action to rectify past wrongs and prevent future contamination.

Supporting the Health of Military Personnel and Civilians

The health and well-being of military personnel and civilians who have been exposed to contaminated water supplies is a paramount concern. Efforts to support these individuals are multifaceted, involving medical monitoring, advocacy, and legal assistance.

Firstly, medical monitoring programs have been established to track the health of those exposed to harmful substances such as PFAS. These programs aim to identify and manage health issues early, potentially reducing the long-term impact of exposure.

Secondly, advocacy groups play a crucial role in raising awareness and pushing for policy changes. They work tirelessly to ensure that the voices of affected individuals are heard and that their needs are addressed at the highest levels of government.

Lastly, legal support is available to those seeking compensation for health issues linked to water contamination. For instance, Camp Lejeune survivors can seek damages for illnesses linked to water contamination. Legal counsel can assist in filing claims for compensation under CJLA.

For those in need of legal guidance, resources such as the Robert King Law Firm are available to provide assistance. Affected individuals are encouraged to reach out for a free consultation to understand their rights and the steps necessary to file a claim.

Future Measures to Prevent Contamination

In the wake of the water contamination crises, proactive steps are being taken to safeguard water supplies against future contamination. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has revised its advisories, setting stringent limits for PFAS—0.004 parts per trillion (ppt) for PFOA and 0.02 ppt for PFOS, reflecting a commitment to public health and safety.

Key measures include:

• Regular Monitoring: Implementing frequent testing of water sources for a broad spectrum of contaminants, including those that have recently come under scrutiny.
• Infrastructure Upgrades: Investing in modern water treatment facilities capable of filtering out minute quantities of harmful substances.
• Public Education: Enhancing community awareness about the risks of water contamination and the importance of environmental stewardship.
• Policy Reform: Enacting legislation that reflects the latest scientific understanding of toxic substances and their health impacts.

These initiatives, coupled with the vigilance of environmental watchdogs like the Environmental Working Group (EWG), aim to ensure that the horrors of past water contamination do not repeat themselves. It is a collective effort that requires the participation of government agencies, legal entities, environmental advocates, and the public at large.