Since 2001, more than 3 million United States military personnel and contractors have deployed to Iraq, Afghanistan and other sites in Southwest Asia. In-theatre exposure to open-air burn pits, sandstorms, combat dust, diesel exhaust, and other workplace hazards may place deployers at risk for disabling respiratory symptoms and lung diseases.
The Center for Deployment-Related Lung Disease at National Jewish Health in Denver, Colorado, is focused on the diagnosis and treatment of active military personnel, veterans, and contractors with lung conditions related to their mission. We also conduct research to understand the causes of deployment-related lung disease, identify new and better diagnostic tools, develop better treatment, and look for ways to prevent these disabling diseases.