On July 25, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that it would conduct a scientific review to determine whether there is a relationship between three conditions—acute leukemias, chronic leukemias, and multiple myeloma outside of the head and neck—caused by toxic exposure from military burn pits.

The VA chose these three conditions for scientific review based on existing scientific data and close consultations with veterans, veterans service organizations, Congress and other key stakeholders. While these are the first conditions to be announced for scientific review since the Honoring our PACT Act passed into law last August, the VA says it will review many additional conditions moving forward.

This review is a part of White House efforts to expand benefits and services for toxic-exposed veterans and their families. It will help the VA determine whether these conditions will become presumptive for veterans. When a condition is considered presumptive, eligible veterans who served in affected locations are automatically considered service-connected for the purpose of receiving benefits.