Military Veterans Suffer with Asbestos Related Illness

By: Jarhead

Mar.11, 2009 in Education

Countless veterans are currently suffering from life-threatening illnesses that are a result of exposure to asbestos, a material that was commonly used in hundreds of military applications, products, and ships primarily because of its
resistance to fire. Unfortunately, asbestos-related diseases are not always recognized by the VA, which is why I’m reaching out to veterans — in hopes of helping them win the rights to their benefits. The following is a guest post by Allen Dutton about the hazards of asbestos.

Asbestos Exposure in U.S Naval Vessels

Throughout the 1930s until the 1970’s, United States Navy Vessels utilized asbestos as insulation. Due to its flame resistant, durable and inexpensive properties, asbestos was viewed as the ideal choice for military applications. Over 300 asbestos-containing products are said to have been used by the Navy during this time period.

Shipyard workers, sailors and tradesman aboard these ships were wrongfully exposed aboard navigation rooms, sleeping quarters and mess halls. These shipyards played significant roles in efforts to build and repair ships on the west and east coasts of the country.

The carcinogenic affects of asbestos exposure were well documented at the early part of the 20th century, but manufacturers repressed this evidence from the public. These manufacturers have been struck hard by scandals, and rightfully so. Hundreds of thousands of military veterans have been plagued by asbestos related illnesses as a result of negligence and conspiracy.

Frequent exposure to asbestos can lead to related ailments such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. These forms of asbestos lung cancer account for three percent of cancer diagnoses in the U.S. alone. One of the hardest diseases to accurately diagnoses, mesothelioma has a latency period that can last 20 to 50 years, making mesothelioma prognosis from physicians a difficult task. In many instances, these veterans do not become aware of their disease until they have aged significantly. Mesothelioma treatment has varied effects on victims. More often than not, it is fatal.

The danger for asbestos exposure is still present today with over $194,000 worth of asbestos imported to Iraq in 2003. Aside from daily threats from military assignments and enemy fire, soldiers stationed in Iraq based in the country are at risk because intense desert winds can carry asbestos dust many miles.

Veterans who seek to receive compensation and assistance for their medical ailment find themselves in a tricky situation. Although mesothelioma is not listed as a service-related disease, they can still apply for Veteran Affairs (VA) benefits but most demonstrate evidence that exposure occurred at the time of their service. Many are hopeful the new presidential administration will push through policies that will help veterans and their families receive their rightful compensation and assistance for their condition.