The Effects of Jet Fuel Exposure on the Innate and Adaptive Immune Systems

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to understand the immune health effects of jet fuels used by the US military. METHODS: A systematic review of epidemiologic, animal toxicological, and mechanistic studies was conducted to assess evidence on immune effects following jet fuel exposure. Data were synthesized to evaluate evidence for specific immune health outcomes. RESULTS: Animal toxicological studies provided moderate evidence that jet fuel exposure causes immune suppression and adversely impacts the immune system by altering immune organ weight, cellularity, and cellular function. Adverse changes were observed predominantly within the adaptive immune system, particularly T cells. There was indeterminate epidemiologic evidence that jet fuel exposure caused immune effects in humans. CONCLUSIONS: Evidence indicates that jet fuel exposure is likely to produce adverse immune effects, particularly in the adaptive immune system. Critical data gaps remain regarding impacts on host resistance, neoplastic disease, and autoimmune disorders.