Jet Fuel Exposure and Neurological Health in Military Personnel

Abstract

Abstract : Jet propulsion fuel 8 (JP-8) has recently been recognized by the Department of Defense as the single largest chemical exposure for its personnel. The primary aim of the project is to conduct an epidemiological field study to examine the relationship between JP-8 fuel exposure and adverse neurological health in military personnel. The research objectives are as follows: (1) determination of the individual service member's level of exposure to JP-8 components while carrying his/her job tasks, as measured by specified biomarkers of exposure; and (2) examination of whether acute or cumulative exposure to JP-8 over a work week is significantly associated with hypothesized neurobehavioral and neurophysiologic performance outcomes. The project has two phases. During Tier I, the authors will conduct onsite exposure assessment techniques to fully characterize JP-8 exposure parameters in the military occupational field setting required for the planned field study. During Tier II, they will conduct the full-scale neuroepidemiology field study to examine predicted dose-response relationships. The field study is being carried out with military (Air Force) personnel. The Tier I data collection phase has been completed; the Tier II phase is currently being planned.