Military personnel and the risk of cancer: A government investigation

The investigation

The government is currently investigating the number of military personnel diagnosed with cancer, following allegations that some helicopters exposed crew members to toxic fumes.

Settlements and legal actions against the Ministry of Defence (MoD)

Reports indicate that at least six cases have already been settled by the MoD, with many more service members understood to be going through the process of pursuing legal action. The affected aircrew, who operated specific military helicopters, were diagnosed with severe illnesses, including:

• Lung cancer

• Throat cancer

• Testicular cancer

• Rare forms of blood cancer

It was reported by The Times that at least three former military air crew members have died, and others face terminal diagnoses.

Did the MoD know about these safety concerns?

Legal claims suggest that the MoD have been aware of the safety concerns linked with the certain aircraft since 1999, but failed to disclose this to air crew or implement sufficient safety measures.

It is understood that the fumes from the gnome engines which power the Sea King helicopter and the Wessex helicopter, emitted benzine carcinogens. These toxic fumes recirculated through the body of the helicopters which potentially led to the development of cancers among crew members.

How have the MoD responded to these investigations?

According to the BBC, the MoD has stated:

"[We take] the health of our personnel extremely seriously"

Therefore, the MoD is currently testing the exhaust emissions of some military helicopters.

How can we help?

The MoD routinely encourage service personnel and veterans to bring claims through the Armed Forces Compensation Scheme. This is a tariff-based scheme, so damages recovered tend to be much lower than claims brought through the civil court.

We would therefore encourage you to seek legal advice if you have been injured, so you can be advised on the best way forward.

We have a specialist team who deal with claims against the MoD. When safety is compromised and a military injury occurs, we understand the significant ramifications on service, home life and post-service prospects.

Our specialist team of military lawyers deal with all types of military injury compensation claims involving military personnel from the Army, RAF and Navy, and have an excellent track record in securing military compensation.