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Open Burn Pit Exposure in Headache Disorder and Migraine
Jason J Sico1,2,3,4, Sarah E Anthony1,2, Manali Phadke1,5
1Research, Education, Evaluation and Engagement Activities Center for Headache, Headache Centers of Excellence, US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Orange, Connecticut.
JAMA Network Open
|September 4, 2024
Summary
Exposure to open burn pits is linked to a higher incidence of new-onset headache and migraine disorders in veterans. This study highlights a dose-dependent association, emphasizing the need for screening in healthcare settings.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Military Medicine
Background:
- Open burn pits were widely used by the U.S. military for waste disposal.
- Systematic investigation into open burn pits as a risk factor for headache disorders is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the association between exposure to open burn pits and the incidence of headache and migraine disorders.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cohort study using data from the Veterans Health Administration Headache Cohort, Department of Defense, and Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry.
- Linked registry data with electronic health records for 247,583 veterans from April 2014 to October 2022.
- Assessed exposure variables including proximity, duration, and duties related to open burn pits, excluding participants with pre-existing headaches.
Main Results:
- Veterans near open burn pits with related duties showed significantly higher odds of medically diagnosed headache disorders (AOR, 1.59) and migraine (AOR, 1.60).
- A dose-dependent relationship was observed; higher cumulative exposure (290-448 days and >448 days) correlated with increased odds of headache and migraine.
- Highest quartile of exposure (>448 days) showed AORs of 1.55 for headache and 1.48 for migraine.
Conclusions:
- A dose-dependent association exists between open burn pit exposure and new-onset medically diagnosed headache and migraine.
- Findings suggest open burn pit exposure is a significant risk factor for headache disorders in military personnel.
- Recommends incorporating screening for these conditions in healthcare facilities serving veterans with potential exposure.
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