Air Force Discovers Unsafe Levels of Carcinogen at Two Missile Launch Facilities

The Air Force has discovered unsafe levels of a likely carcinogen at two underground launch control centers at Malmstrom Air Force Base in Montana. According to a release from Air Force Global Strike Command on Monday, this is the first discovery from an extensive sampling of active U.S. intercontinental ballistic missile bases to address specific cancer concerns raised by missile community members.

The samples taken from the launch facilities showed levels of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) higher than the thresholds recommended by the Environmental Protection Agency. PCBs are a group of man-made chemicals that can cause cancer and other health problems.

The Air Force is now taking steps to address the issue. They have begun to remove and replace contaminated materials, and are providing medical screenings and health monitoring for personnel who have been exposed to the PCBs.

The Air Force is also continuing to sample other launch facilities across the country. They are working to ensure the safety of personnel and the public, and to address any health concerns raised by missile community members.