What is fine particulate matter in relation to burn pits?

Burn pits are open-air areas used by the US military to dispose of waste by burning it in an uncontrolled area. Many veterans, especially those who have Gulf War presumptives, have suffered health consequences as a result of proximity to burn pits during their time in the military.

You might be familiar with the term "fine particulate matter" in regards to burn pits – this term is used by the VA to acknowledge the health implications that proximity to burn pits can cause. But what does it actually mean? What have you really been exposed to?

Here's what it means, including a recently updated definition by the VA:

The VA's updated definition for fine particulate matter

The VA recently updated the definition for fine particulate matter in the M21-1 section VIII.ii.2.A.1.c. Here's what it says:

"Fine particulate matter is a form of air pollution (also called particle pollution) that is comprised of a complex mixture of extremely small particles and liquid droplets that results from primary sources of dust storms and emissions from local industries. These microscopic particles can be inhaled and travel into the lungs and bloodstream, causing disease."

But what does that really mean? Basically, fine particulate matter can be made up of the following substances:

• Acids

• Organic chemicals

• Metals

• Soil

• Dust particles

And depending on which mixture you've been exposed to, you might end up with some health complications because of it.

Complications of exposures to fine particulate matter

Common exposures to fine particulate matter for veterans include:

• Dust storms, leading to exposures of the organic and inorganic substances above

• Fumes from the burn pits due to plastics, rubber, medical and human waste, ammunition

• Toxic smoke and emissions due to use of JP-8 jet fuel as an accelerant

The American Cancer Society acknowledges a risk between burn pit exposure and certain cancers. Burn pit exposure can also cause respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis, most commonly. It can also lead to rhinitis, sinusitis, sarcoidosis, and a scarring condition called interstitial lung disease. 

If a veteran is trying to claim service connection for a condition due to burn pit exposure, it will be considered under the presumption of exposure to fine particulate matter.

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