K2 / Karshi-Khanabad (Uzbekistan) Exposures
What was documented at K2
DoD environmental sampling between 2001 and 2004 documented multiple contaminants on the base, including jet fuel (JP-8) plumes, processed low-level radiological material, asbestos, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and a long list of volatile organic compounds. The base also hosted open-air burn operations that fall within the burn-pit framework.
PACT Act coverage
Under the , K2 is included as a covered location for burn-pit and airborne-hazard presumptive analysis. Presumptive cancers and respiratory conditions tied to burn-pit exposure can apply to qualifying K2 service members. See the burn-pit topic for the current presumptive list.
Evidence to develop a K2 claim
- Orders or DD-214 entries showing K2 service dates (October 2001 – November 2005).
- Personnel records reflecting deployed unit status.
- Enrollment in the VA Airborne Hazards and Open Burn Pit Registry.
- Buddy statements from K2 veterans describing exposure conditions and duty assignments.
- Current medical records confirming the claimed condition and tying onset to post-deployment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Useful Tools & Topics
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