Red Hill Registry identifies common symptoms, exposure pathways

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) - Early findings from the Red Hill Registry show symptoms reported by people exposed to jet-fuel-contaminated water from the Navy water system on Oahu in 2021 align with diagnostic criteria for several syndromes.

“Frequently reported symptoms include fatigue, sleep problems, headaches, memory problems, anxiety and ear-related concerns,” said Haley Oetterer, data management specialist for the Red Hill Registry.

About 500 participants are currently enrolled in the registry, which is facilitated by the University of Hawaii.

Researchers have been presenting their findings at scientific conferences across the U.S. and Canada, including the Military Health System Research Symposium and events hosted by the American Public Health Association and the International Society of Exposure Science.

“A large portion of participants exposed during the Red Hill water crisis were military-connected and the Military Health Research Symposium allowed us to share early observations with healthcare professionals and researchers who frequently study military populations,” Oetterer added.

Presentations have also included self-reported behaviors that may have exposed participants to contaminants, including cooking, drinking, oral hygiene, hand-washing, showering, and doing laundry.

“These findings help illustrate potential exposure pathways, including inhalation, dermal and ingestion pathways, among exposed participants,” said Rosana “Sanie” Weldon, director of the Red Hill Registry.

Community members who lived, worked, attended school, or spent significant time in areas served by the Navy water system are encouraged to enroll in the registry, even if they don’t have symptoms. Details are available on the Red Hill Registry website.

A lawsuit filed against the U.S. government in connection with the tainted water included nearly 6,000 plaintiffs in 2025. A judge found the government liable for the spill in a ruling involving 17 bellwether plaintiffs but rejected many claims for damages and ongoing medical treatment.