Amy Lindberg embraced her new life at Camp Lejeune. She played tennis and enjoyed her lunchtime runs under the Carolina sun, all while a hidden danger lurked beneath her feet.
Before 1953, a large amount of trichlorethylene, or TCE, seeped into the groundwater around the base. TCE was a popular solvent in the mid-20th century, and its rapid evaporation made it a go-to chemical for cleaning machinery and clothes. While it appeared harmless—people used it without immediate discomfort—it had a darker long-term impact. For about 35 years, Marines and sailors unknowingly ingested vaporized TCE whenever they turned on their taps. The Navy initially denied the toxin’s presence, but as veterans aged, they began suffering from serious illnesses. Statistics showed that Marines stationed at Lejeune faced a 35% higher risk of kidney cancer, a 47% higher risk of Hodgkin’s lymphoma, and a staggering 68% higher risk of multiple myeloma. Tragically, the local cemetery needed to expand its section for infants, reflecting the toll this situation took on families.
In the 1980s, Dr. Langston worked tirelessly at the California Parkinson’s Foundation, striving to uncover the cause of this debilitating disease. He and his team made significant discoveries, such as linking the pesticide Paraquat to high rates of Parkinson’s among farm workers. They even identified TCE as a potential risk factor contributing to the disease. A study comparing Marines at Lejeune and those stationed at Pendleton found that the former were 70% more likely to develop Parkinson’s, shifting attention toward environmental factors influencing health.
However, during this time, the Human Genome Project began to reshape the landscape of medical research. Launched in 1990, the project aimed to map all human genes. By the time it wrapped up in 2000, it promised to revolutionize medicine, but it also drew research focus away from environmental health. Funding poured into genetic studies, sidelining important investigations into toxins like TCE. Sam Goldman, a collaborator of Langston’s, noted that genetics became the “800-pound gorilla” of science, attracting attention while environmental health issues languished.
Today, awareness is growing. A recent survey showed that over 70% of Americans believe environmental factors significantly impact health. This change in perspective is crucial as we continue to uncover links between chemicals like TCE and various health issues. The narratives of veterans like those at Camp Lejeune play a vital role in shaping these conversations and push for necessary changes in regulation and health care.
Experts urge vigilance. As we uncover more about how our environment affects our well-being, it’s vital to advocate for safety and transparency in chemical usage. Understanding past mistakes is key to protecting future generations.
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