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Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma in the Navy

United States veterans account for nearly 30 percent of all mesothelioma diagnoses. Of all the branches, the Navy was the largest consumer of asbestos-containing products. For this reason, Navy veterans face the highest risk of developing the disease and requiring cancer treatment.

Asbestos, a mineral known for its durable, fire-resistant nature, was used in nearly every aspect of the Navy. It was relied upon as insulation and used to prevent fires on Navy ships and submarines.

When asbestos is disturbed, its tiny fibers become airborne and can enter the body with no way of being expelled. Over time, this can cause severe damage to the mesothelium, the tissue that lines the organs of the chest, heart, and abdomen.

In 1939, the Navy’s surgeon general released a report connecting asbestos with debilitating lung conditions such as asbestosis. However, though asbestos was already a known carcinogen, asbestos manufacturers continued distributing it to the military, and its use persisted.

Navy Occupations with Highest Asbestos Exposure Risk

Asbestos was used in military weapons, on bases, and in vehicles. It was primarily used in insulation and could be found in pipes, motors, flooring, and walls. It was especially prevalent in rooms that required extra insulation, such as boiler rooms, engine rooms, and weapons storage areas. It was even used in mess halls and sleeping areas. Coupled with poor ventilation, asbestos was an unknown but near-constant threat, putting thousands of servicemen and women at risk.

The Navy was also extremely reliant on asbestos for fire prevention onboard ships and subs. As a result, boilermakers and shipyard workers faced the highest amount of exposure. However, the abundant use of asbestos put all Navy personnel at risk, even those in administrative roles.

  • Aviation machinist mates
  • Boiler technicians
  • Damage controlmen
  • Electrician’s mates
  • Enginemen
  • Gunner’s mates
  • Hull maintenance technicians
  • Machinery repair technicians
  • Pipefitters
  • Seabees
  • Shipbuilders
This is an image of a ship.

How Do I Know If I Have Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is known for having an extremely long latency period, meaning the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms requiring treatment. The disease can take between 10 and 60 years to develop and show up in victims. If you are exhibiting any symptoms, speak with your doctor right away and inform them of your potential work history around asbestos.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

  • Abdominal pain or swelling
  • Chest pain
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite or weight loss
  • Painful, persistent cough

Navy VA Health Care for Treating Mesothelioma

There are several programs in place that seek to match veterans with affordable treatment. Renowned mesothelioma experts Dr. Robert Cameron and Dr. Abraham (Avi) Lebenthal are both participants in the VA Health Care Program providing treatment to veterans.

Dr. Cameron serves as the chief of thoracic surgery at the West Los Angeles VA Medical Center. The facility has partnered with UCLA’s Comprehensive Mesothelioma Program to provide veterans with surgery and other treatment geared toward improving their quality of life.

Dr. Lebenthal, based out of the Brigham & Women’s Hospital, serves as the head of thoracic surgery at the VA Boston Healthcare System, another facility designed to serve veterans.

Find a VA hospital or health system near you.

Navy Veterans Benefits and VA Claims

It is highly recommended that you work with an experienced VA claims specialist when filing a claim for VA benefits related to mesothelioma. Documents you will likely need to produce in order to qualify for compensation include:

  • Medical records stating your illness or disability
  • Service records listing your job or area of expertise
  • Documentation of your doctor linking asbestos exposure during your time in the military to your disability

Most mesothelioma settlements range from $100,000 to $3 million

Let us take a look and evaluate how much your case is worth. You have legal rights and may be eligible for compensation.
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Filing an Asbestos or Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Many brave heroes already risked their lives once while serving in the military. Sadly, their lives are still at risk of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related conditions. If you are a victim, please let us help you. In addition to filing for navy veterans benefits, veterans may also seek compensation by taking legal action.

Veterans and victims of mesothelioma are entitled to compensation. An attorney will be able to guide you through the process of suing the asbestos companies and manufacturers responsible. Call the Mesothelioma Hotline number below to speak with a member of our team, or request a free case evaluation online. We understand what you’re going through and can connect you with an experienced asbestos attorney who will be able to help get you the compensation you deserve.

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