The exposure to toxic dust and fumes from burn pits in Iraq have been reported to have been allegedly linked to the death of a soldier. The Omaha World-Hearld reports that the death of 25 year old Sgt. Klayton Thomas from lung cancer was reportedly causally connected to the exposure that he suffered in Iraq.
Burn pits have been used extensively in Iraq and Afghanistan by the military and civilian contractors to disposed of hazards waste. Congress had held hearings concerning their use and alleged resulting disease prompting The National Academies to hold hearings on the exposures. Multiple lawsuits have been filed against major military contractors seeking benefits.
Click here to read more about the chemical exposures in Iraq.