The war in Iraq began 10 years ago today. We’ll mark the occasion with the story of a different battle for some of the men and women who served there: the battle to breathe. Troops returning from Iraq and Afghanistan are at a much higher risk for lung diseases than those stationed elsewhere. Veterans often blame toxic smoke pouring off burn pits for these mysterious illnesses. Burn pits are huge piles of burning trash near military bases. Dr. Cecile Rose heads a clinic for these soldiers at National Jewish Health in Denver. It’s one of the leaders in helping these veterans and investigating the causes of their sickness. Ryan Warner speaks with Dr. Rose.
[Photo: Department of Defense]
