A growing number of former British Army bomb disposal veterans are coming forward with devastating cancer diagnoses, believed to be linked to prolonged exposure to toxic explosive materials during their service. One such veteran, David Young, a former staff sergeant with the 321 Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) unit, has spoken publicly for the first time about his bladder cancer diagnosis—allegedly caused by exposure to carcinogenic chemicals such as nitrobenzene, a study has found a link between explosive chemicals and cancer in army veterans.
Exposure Without PPE: A Hidden Hazard
David Young served in Northern Ireland during the 1970s, a time when bomb disposal was carried out with little to no personal protective equipment. During an eight-hour operation in Londonderry in 1976, he dismantled a 400kg homemade bomb. Despite handling dangerous substances like nitrobenzene—classified as a probable human carcinogen by the US Environmental Protection Agency—Young was equipped only with a bomb suit and helmet. He used his bare hands to examine oil drums for secondary devices and often handled explosives without gloves or masks.
Like many others from the 321 EOD unit, Young now lives with the long-term consequences. He underwent surgery to remove both his bladder and prostate and now uses a stoma and urostomy bag. He is one of at least 13 veterans from the same unit who have developed cancer, with four having already died. Despite mounting medical evidence, no compensation has been awarded, and the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has not accepted liability.
Bladder Cancer Risks in Veterans: What the Research Shows
A recent medical study—presented at the European Association of Urology Annual Congress in Madrid and published in BJU International—suggests that bladder cancer rates amongst bomb disposal officers under 70 may be up to five times higher than in the general population. Of 688 veterans studied, 12 had been diagnosed with bladder cancer, raising urgent concerns over occupational exposure.
Retired Brigadier General Dr Gareth Collett, who also has bladder cancer and led the study, stated that the findings strongly suggest a link between repeated exposure to explosives and increased cancer risk.
Seeking Legal Advice for Cancer Linked to Military Exposure
At Hutcheon Law, we specialise in helping former armed forces personnel bring forward compensation claims for cancers caused by toxic exposure, delayed diagnosis, or inadequate safety measures during service. If you or a loved one served in a bomb disposal or technical role and have been diagnosed with cancer, legal support may be available.
Explore our related articles:
• Military exposure and cancer claims
• Delayed cancer diagnosis in veterans
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