Veterans and Mesothelioma - Answers on Exposure and VA Claim Help For Navy, Army, Marines, & Air Force Veterans
Unfortunately, the largest group of individuals at risk for mesothelioma are U.S. Veterans. Those that served between 1930 and 1970 have the highest risk for contracting this rare form of cancer. Because asbestos was widely used in all branches of the military, veterans who served during this time period were often exposed to large amounts of asbestos and are now paying for it with their lives.
Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer that is caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos. In the military, asbestos was used in hundreds of applications. Asbestos was used most widely on Navy ships because of it's strong fireproofing capabilities. However, it was also used extensively in buildings and vehicles as well.
Because mesothelioma has a long latency period, from twenty to fifty years or more, many veterans who were exposed to asbestos are just now being diagnosed with mesothelioma. There is no cure for the disease and life expectancy for those who are diagnosed after the latency period is not good - typically from four to eighteen months depending on the stage of the cancer at the time of diagnosis.
Veterans who served from 1930 - 1970 should let their physician know that they were exposed to asbestos as part of their service as early testing is now available that can help combat mesothelioma during the phase where the disease is dormant. Early detection of the disease offers the best chance of successful treatment. If a veteran is experiencing any of the symptoms of the disease such as frequent coughing, shortness of breath, or pain in the neck and sides it's important to consult with a medical professional to receive the proper testing and care.
Mesothelioma is now recognized as a service related medical condition by the U.S. Department of Veterans affairs, which means that benefits can be available to veterans who contract the disease are a result of their military service. However, filing a VA claim is a difficult process and claims are often denied for a variety of reasons. For example, veterans are expected to prove that their only exposure to asbestos happened as a result of their military service. Seeking legal assistance when filing a claim is often the best course of action for veterans.
Many veterans who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma may not be aware that they have legal rights. While veterans can not sue the United States government as a result of mesothelioma, they can sue the manufacturers of the products that used asbestos. A qualified mesothelioma attorney can be invaluable in assisting veterans with receiving financial compensation to help pay for medical expenses and lost income. Fill out the form above or call the 800 number to get more information if you are a veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma.
