Asbestos and military veterans who develop mesothelioma from exposure can often be traced back to their working environment in the military. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral used for centuries for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. However, it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that asbestos became widespread. In the 20th century, asbestos was used in many products, including insulation, flooring, roofing, and automotive parts. Unfortunately, it was later discovered that asbestos exposure could cause serious health problems, including mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer. Military veterans are particularly vulnerable to asbestos exposure, and many have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Asbestos & Military Veterans
The use of asbestos in the military dates to World War II. Asbestos was used extensively in military ships, aircraft, and vehicles due to its durability, heat resistance, and insulating properties. Military personnel who worked in shipyards, boiler rooms, and other areas where asbestos was present were at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers. When asbestos is disturbed, microscopic fibers can be easily inhaled into the air. Once inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in the lungs and other organs, causing damage over time.
Asbestos and military veterans who were exposed often suffer from mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer affecting the lungs, abdomen, or heart lining. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, and the symptoms can take decades to appear. The most common symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue. Unfortunately, cancer has already spread by the time most people are diagnosed with mesothelioma, making it difficult to treat.
What to Do If Exposed to Asbestos
Military veterans exposed to asbestos during their service may be eligible for compensation. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits veterans exposed to asbestos and later developed mesothelioma. These benefits can help cover the cost of medical treatment and provide financial support for the veteran and their family. However, navigating the VA system can be complex, and many veterans are unaware of their rights and options.
If you are a military veteran exposed to asbestos during your service, seeking medical attention as soon as possible is essential. Early detection and treatment can improve your chances of survival. It is also important to speak with a mesothelioma lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve. Mesothelioma lawyers have experience working with veterans and understand their unique challenges when seeking compensation for asbestos exposure.
In addition to exposure to mesothelioma, asbestos and military veterans can cause many health problems, including lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural effusion. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease that causes lung tissue scarring, making breathing difficult. Pleural effusion is the buildup of fluid between the lungs and chest wall, which can cause chest pain and difficulty breathing. Lung cancer is another potential complication of asbestos exposure, and it is often more challenging to treat in people exposed to asbestos.
While the use of asbestos in the military has decreased in recent years, many veterans exposed to it during their service are still at risk of developing mesothelioma and other health problems. If you are a military veteran exposed to asbestos during your service, it is crucial to seek medical attention and speak with a mesothelioma lawyer who can help you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Asbestos Attorneys at Shrader & Associates
Asbestos is a dangerous mineral that can cause serious health problems, including mesothelioma, a deadly form of cancer. Asbestos and military veterans exposed to asbestos during their service are particularly vulnerable to developing mesothelioma and other health problems. If you are a military veteran exposed to asbestos during your service, contact the asbestos attorneys at Shrader & Associates to learn more about how they can help get you the compensation you deserve. https://shraderlaw.com/mesothelioma/diagnosed/