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Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

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Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs)

Polychlorinated biphenyls are mixtures of chlorinated compounds that have been commercially produced because they don't burn or degrade easily. They have been used as coolants and lubricants in transformers, capacitors, and other electrical equipment. There are no known natural sources of PCBs.

The manufacture of PCBs was stopped in the U.S. in 1977 because of evidence they build up in the environment and can cause harmful health problems. Products made before 1977 that may contain PCBs include old fluorescent lighting fixtures and electrical devices containing PCB capacitors, and old microscope and hydraulic oils.

• Exposure to PCBs
• How Veterans May Have Been Exposed to PCBs During Military Service
• Health Problems Associated with Exposure to PCBs
• VA Benefits for Health Problems Associated with Exposure to PCBs
• Related Link

Exposure to PCBs

Before it was banned in 1977, people living in the U.S. may have been exposed to PCBs by:

• Using old fluorescent lighting fixtures and electrical devices and appliances, such as television sets and refrigerators.
• Eating contaminated food. The main dietary sources of PCBs are fish (especially sportfish caught in contaminated lakes or rivers), meat, and dairy products.
• Breathing air near hazardous waste sites and drinking contaminated well water.
• In the workplace, during repair and maintenance of PCB transformers; accidents, fires or spills involving transformers, fluorescent lights, and other old electrical devices; and disposal of PCB materials.
  

How Veterans May Have Been Exposed to PCBs During Military Service

Veterans at risk for PCB exposure during military service are those who, before 1977, worked on repair and maintenance of PCB transformers, capacitors, and conduits.

Health Problems Associated with Exposure to PCBs

The most common health problems for people exposed to large amounts of PCBs are skin conditions such as acne and rashes. Studies in exposed workers have shown changes in blood and urine that may indicate liver damage.

If you are concerned about health problems associated with exposure to PCBs during your military service, contact the Environmental Health Coordinator or Patient Care Advocate at your nearest VA medical facility.

VA Benefits for Health Problems Associated with Exposure to PCBs

Veterans may be eligible for:

• Health care for health problems that VA determines are related to exposures during military service.
• Disability compensation for health problems that VA determines are related to exposures during military service.
• A broad range of other VA programs and services.

Learn more about VA health care, disability compensation and other benefits.

Related Link

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) Fact Sheet - Department of Health and Human Services
Fact sheet answers most frequently asked health questions about PCBs.

http://www.publichealth.va.gov/exposures/occupational_environmental/pcb.asp