During the Vietnam War, the U.S. military used Agent Orange, a powerful herbicide containing dioxin, during their attempt to contain the spread of communism. This herbicide then led to severe health complications for millions of Vietnamese people including birth defects, hernias, and cancers. A recent article (link above) by The Sun demonstrates the devastating effects of dioxin on the Vietnamese people and the environment.
Between 1961 and 1971 the U.S. military sprayed around 20 million gallons of this herbicide over Vietnam under Operation Ranch Hand. While the intent of this herbicide was to destroy Vietnam’s forest and food supply, it also exposed dioxin, one of the most toxic substances, to millions of people in Vietnam. Because of Dioxin many generations were born with birth defects including missing limbs and neurological disorders. Rates of cancers including leukemia and lymphoma also skyrocketed. Not only were millions of people affected but dioxin caused Vietnam’s environment to deteriorate meaning, vast areas are still contaminated with dioxin. This continues affecting Vietnam’s water supply and agriculture. Dioxin is spread through breastmilk causing a never-ending cycle of birth defects and neurological disorders.
In 2024, my family travelled to Vietnam and witnessed the ongoing effects of Dioxin poisoning. This trip gave light to the many families still taking care of their loved ones born with severe disabilities caused by the dioxin exposure decades ago. It also showed me the urgency for further medical support, legal accountability, and environmental cleanup. It highlighted the need for global awareness and medical aid for those who are still suffering because of the U.S.’s actions during the Vietnam War. Researchers and colleges must continue to find long term solutions to combat the effects of Dioxin to help mitigate the damage caused by Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.
