United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Public Health

World War II Exposures

 

World War II (Sept. 1, 1939-Sept. 2, 1945)

Veterans who fought in World War II may have been exposed to a range of environmental and chemical hazards that carried potential health risks.

 

Servicemen are covering their ears to shield them from the noise of a blastNoise
Harmful sounds from guns, equipment, and machinery that is often experienced during military service

Soldiers marching through snowCold Injuries
Health problems that could be caused by cold temperatures, such as during the Battle of the Bulge

Mushroom cloud.jpgIonizing Radiation
Exposures at Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Japan and health problems from harmful radiation

World War I soldier in trench wearing gasmaskMustard Gas
Odorless, poisonous gas used during combat in World War I and II

Man wearing workplace safety gearOccupational Hazards
Exposures from working with chemicals, paints, and machinery during service


Connect with Us
Veterans Health

Like Us on Facebook Follow Us on Twitter Subscribe to Us on YouTube
 

Contact VA

Environmental Health
Coordinators Directory

  • Health Care
    1-877-222-8387
  • Benefits
    1-800-827-1000
  • TDD (hearing impaired)
    1-800-829-4833