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The Long-Lasting Impact of Blast Exposure on Veterans

SAN DIEGO - A new study is taking a look at how being exposed to blasts during military service can have long-lasting health effects on veterans.

More than 130,000 veterans were surveyed as a part of the Millennium Cohort study, which looked at service members who were exposed to a variety of explosive materials.

"Initially, I didn't think they had any effect on me," Navy Veteran Tod Neal told reporting partner 10 News. "I mean, unfortunately, you kinda enjoy it - something new. You see the blast wave ripple across the desert floor - thought it was cool but as I got older I started to notice I had some health effects."

Neal worked in disposing explosives during tours of duty after 9/11 and now he has short-term memory lapses and vertigo. Despite his health issues, he understands that every explosive he took off the battlefield helped saved a life.

Dr. Jennifer Belding says while traumatic brain injuries can be common with repeated exposure to blasts, researchers were able to find 45 different health conditions associated with the exposure, including PTSD, seizures, lupus, depression and asthma.

The Millennium Cohort study is now looking for military spouses to participate in its next round of research.

Kabul International Airport Cleared of Explosives

Photo: Getty Images


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