Men who were exposed to Agent Orange during the Vietnam War are at a higher risk for prostate cancer, say researchers at the Portland Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Oregon.
Agent Orange is a chemical once used during the Vietnam War to clear foliage. It contains high levels of likely carcinogens and has long been linked to injuries and birth defects among the Vietnamese people.
Not only are some Vietnam Veterans at greater risk of this life-threatening cancer; they are also diagnosed an average of 5 years earlier than other men who develop the disease. Agent Orange was also linked to increased risk of lymphoma (cancer of the blood) and aggressive tumor growth.
This means men who were exposed to Agent Orange during the war not only have an increased risk of prostate cancer: they also develop it early and aggressively.
While being exposed to Agent Orange or other carcinogenic chemicals doesn't mean you'll necessarily develop cancer, the researchers encourage all men who've been exposed to get regular screenings.
There are many other dangerous chemicals out there that can lead to severe illness or even death. If you've been injured by a chemical or dangerous toxin, you need to speak with an attorney. Contact us today - the conversation is free.