Youngstown Air Reserve Station had been designated a Superfund site by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Although it does not possess a National Priorities List (NPL) status, health concerns arising from the presence of hazardous substances in the base remain an urgent concern.
What contaminants were detected at Youngstown Air Reserve Station?
Among the contaminants of concern present in Youngstown Air Reserve Station is PFAS. Due to their unique abilities to resist heat, oil, and water, PFAS have found numerous purposes, particularly as key ingredients in AFFF. In the case of Youngstown Air Reserve Station, AFFF has been used for aircraft emergencies in previous years. This explains why unsafe levels of runoff PFAS chemicals have been detected at the base. As of 2019, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) reported the presence of certain PFAS types in the groundwater sources at Youngstown Air Reserve Station:
Following health concerns, at Youngstown Air Reserve Station, the use of AFFF was ceased in 2021. They also restricted PFAS-contaminated areas, especially groundwater sources, to minimize health risks. Additionally, the DoD has conducted a feasibility study to determine the appropriate remedial measures needed to address PFAS contamination on the base. Yet, many military personnel and even civilians may have already been exposed to these toxic chemicals.
What are the health issues linked to PFAS exposure at Youngstown Air Reserve Station?
Exposure to PFAS has been associated with numerous health issues, including testicular cancer. In 2023, the National Cancer Institute released findings of a study linking exposure to PFOA, a type of PFAS commonly found in AFFF and a known human carcinogen, to an increased risk of testicular cancer among U.S. Air Force personnel.
Routine exposure to PFAS can result in higher chances of developing the following illnesses:
If you or a loved one was stationed at Youngstown Air Reserve Station and you were diagnosed with any of these diseases, you may be eligible to receive compensation. Those who qualify include the following high-risk groups:
- Military personnel, either on active duty or retired
- Relatives of military members living on the base
- Residents living within one mile of the base
