The Unseen Burden
Toxic Exposures and Health Impacts on U.S. Navy Submariners
November 8, 2025
Watch the Announcement
Critical Findings
- Chronic Exposure: Submariners endure 24/7 exposure to a toxic atmosphere containing 130-200 identified contaminants for weeks or months at a time.
- Health Crisis: Linked to rare cancers, blood disorders, cardiovascular disease, and chronic respiratory conditions.
- Systemic Failure: Lack of federal research and reliance on outdated industrial standards has left veterans without proper care.
- PACT Act Gaps: Submariners face disproportionate denial rates because submarine service is not recognized as a presumptive exposure category.
📰 Press Release
Read the official announcement of The Unseen Burden report release.
Download PDF📊 Abstract
Quick overview of the report's key findings and recommendations.
Download PDF📖 Full Report
The complete 59-page comprehensive research report (The Unseen Burden).
Download PDFFrom the Press Release
"For decades, our Submariners were told their environment was safe. In reality, they were breathing a low-oxygen atmosphere tainted by toxins like monoethanolamine and benzene. These Sailors carried out missions vital to national security — yet the government has placed an impossible burden of proof on them as they fight for care. The time for silence is over; the time for action is now."
— Stanley J. Martinez, Chairman and CEO, Submariners' Advocacy Group
Take Action Now
Help us advocate for the veterans who served in silence beneath the waves.
Support Our MissionFor More Information
Contact: David L. Bozarth, Executive Director
Email: dbozarth@subadvocates.org
Phone: (843) 697-0543