U.S. Military Veterans Contracting Mesothelioma at Alarming Rate
By Andrea Gressman
Mesothelioma, a cancer that has been linked to the exposure of asbestos, is a very serious disease that is also fatal. However, there are treatment options available that can prolong a person’s life. Mesothelioma typically takes 20 to 40 years to develop and be diagnosed. However, it has been known to strike those of all ages. It has also been known to affect those in a variety of industries, including veterans of the United States military.
Asbestos was frequently used in a wide range of military projects. At the time, asbestos was very desirable to the military due to it durability and the fact that it is readily available, resistant to fire and absorbs sounds. Asbestos was also frequently used on Navy ships.
Why Have So Many Veterans Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
Asbestos use was very common between 1930 and the late 1970’s. Each branch of the military, including the Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, and the Navy all used materials and equipment that contained asbestos. The asbestos was used in countless ways, including for the comfort, protection, and transportation of service men and women. Sadly, these are the things that have led to many deaths of veterans from mesothelioma. The diagnoses of mesothelioma in the military are not likely to end any time soon as there have been reports of asbestos exposure in Iraq as well.
Some of the areas where the men and women of the armed forces may have been exposed to asbestos may include the following:
- Construction
- Demolition work
- Insulation
- Mining
- Shipbuilding yards
- As well as many other areas
It is important to note that there has been no evidence of the military being aware of the side effect risks associated with asbestos. However, because so many veterans have been diagnosed with mesothelioma from asbestos exposure there have been benefits established through the VA for those who served in the armed forces and then were later diagnosed with mesothelioma due to the asbestos exposure they experienced during their time of service. Although these benefits cover many of the needs a veteran facing mesothelioma may have, there are many veterans that would like to seek a larger settlement for the severe side effects they suffer from. It has also been alleged that some physicians from the VA are hesitant to provide information about providing information regarding the benefits available to veterans who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. That is why it is so important for those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma to speak to a mesothelioma lawsuit attorney right away. They will be able to advise you on your legal options and let you know what benefits are available to you and how you can receive the compensation that you deserve.
Filing a Mesothelioma Lawsuit after Asbestos Exposure
Regardless of whether you or your family member is a veteran or not, if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma you need to know your legal options. Visit the Mesothelioma Asbestos Class Action Lawsuit Settlement Investigation page right away to receive a free legal review of your claims from a qualified mesothelioma lawsuit lawyer. You may have a case to seek compensation through an asbestos lawsuit settlement.
Updated January 22nd, 2013
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