I worked the BP oil spill building hesco barriers in the Guard. I highly doubt their issues are from the oil. Not saying it wasn't but this was a very short event. Weeks to a couple of months at best. I know there were PPE protocols. Were they wearing it at all times? Probably not. It is Louisiana. Hot as hell. From the pics I don't see anybody wearing basic PPE but I do recall many workers were wearing it. This is also one of the most unhealthy places on the planet. Poor diet, little to no exercise. Are those factors? Of course they are. Add aging of 13 years ago and many of them are not healthy oil spill or no oil spill.