Beryllium
Heavy metalIARC Group 1A lightweight metal in aerospace alloys, electronics, and some weapons systems.
Where it comes from in service
Machining beryllium alloys, aerospace and electronics maintenance.
How it harms the body
Beryllium can trigger an immune-driven, lasting lung disease (chronic beryllium disease) in sensitized people.
How long it stays in you
The immune sensitization is lifelong once it develops.
Where it goes — tap an organ to go deeper
IARC lists beryllium as a known carcinogen; chronic beryllium disease is a recognized occupational lung disease.
Progressive lung disease in sensitized individuals — a specific blood test (BeLPT) can identify sensitization.
What to ask your clinician about
- •Beryllium Lymphocyte Proliferation Test (BeLPT)
- •Pulmonary function testing
Bring this to your clinician and your VSO — they decide what testing and care, if any, is right for you. For general, whole-person ways to support your body, see Whole health.
Sources: ATSDR ToxFAQs: Beryllium · IARC Group 1. Drafted from the government's and science's own record — VA presumptive lists (PACT Act, 38 CFR, Camp Lejeune), ATSDR ToxFAQs, IARC, and NTP. Sources are cited on every page, and this library has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician or toxicologist. This is documentation to bring to your clinician and VSO — not a diagnosis, a treatment plan, or a determination of service connection. Veterans Crisis Line: dial 988, then press 1.