mesothelioma-navy-veterans

23 Mar Mesothelioma in Navy Veterans

Posted at 14:57h in Mesothelioma, Veterans by

Mesothelioma is an aggressive type of rare cancer that affects the lungs, heart, or abdomen linings. One of the most at-risk groups for developing mesothelioma is Navy veterans. Due to prolonged asbestos exposure, a material used in naval ships and shipyards, many veterans face a higher likelihood of developing this devastating disease.

The Link Between Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma

Asbestos was commonly used in naval vessels throughout much of the 20th century due to its fire-resistant and insulating properties. Unfortunately, prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health complications, including mesothelioma. When these fibers are ingested or inhaled, they can be stored in the body, causing inflammation, scarring, and the development of cancerous tumors.

Where Was Asbestos Found on Navy Ships?

Navy ships were filled with asbestos-containing materials, including:

  • Boiler rooms: Used for insulation around pipes, boilers, and engines.
  • Shipyards: Workers building and repairing ships frequently handled asbestos materials.
  • Insulation materials: Found in walls, ceilings, and floors to protect against extreme temperatures.
  • Gaskets and valves: Used to seal mechanical components, often releasing asbestos fibers during maintenance or repairs.

Navy personnel who worked in these environments, particularly shipyard workers, boiler technicians, and machinist mates, faced some of the highest levels of exposure.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of Mesothelioma

The development of mesothelioma occurs decades after asbestos exposure, with a latency period ranging from 20 to 50 years. This means that many mesothelioma Navy veterans are only now being diagnosed with the disease. Common symptoms are:

  • Chest pain
  • Persistent cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fatigue
  • Weight loss
  • Fluid buildup around the lungs or abdomen

Because mesothelioma symptoms often resemble those of less severe illnesses, it is frequently misdiagnosed in its early stages. Veterans experiencing any of these symptoms must seek medical attention immediately, especially if they have a history of asbestos exposure.

How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Diagnosing mesothelioma typically involves:

  • Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs to identify abnormalities.
  • Biopsies: Tissue samples are taken for microscopic examination.
  • Blood tests: Used to detect biomarkers associated with mesothelioma.

Treatment Options for Navy Veterans

Treatment for mesothelioma varies depending on the disease stage and the overall health of the patient. The most common treatment options are:

Surgery

Surgical procedures can remove tumors and affected tissue to slow the progression of the disease. Common surgical options include:

  • Pleurectomy/Decortication (P/D): Removes the lung lining while preserving the lung.
  • Extrapleural pneumonectomy (EPP): Removes the affected lung and surrounding tissues.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy shrinks tumors and slows the spread of cancer. It may be administered before or after surgery.

Radiation 

Radiation therapy can help control tumor growth and alleviate symptoms. It is often used in combination with surgery and chemotherapy.

Emerging Treatments

New treatments, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy, are being explored to improve survival rates and quality of life for mesothelioma patients.

Legal Rights and Compensation for Navy Veterans

Navy veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma may be entitled to compensation and benefits due to asbestos exposure during their service.

VA Benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides disability compensation, health care, and dependency benefits to veterans affected by asbestos-related illnesses. Veterans must file a claim with the VA to receive these benefits.

Lawsuits and Asbestos Trust Funds

Many companies that manufactured asbestos-containing products have established trust funds to compensate victims. Veterans may be eligible to file lawsuits against these companies or submit claims to asbestos trust funds.

Legal Assistance

Seeking legal assistance from a mesothelioma lawyer can help veterans navigate the complexities of filing claims, accessing compensation, and ensuring their families receive financial support.

 

More information:

 

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Last Updated on March 23, 2025 by Marie Benz MD FAAD

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