Army Veteran Mesothelioma: Understanding the Risks and Taking Action

🎖️ Saluting Our Brave Veterans Who Are Battling Mesothelioma

As a nation, we owe a great debt to our veterans who have selflessly served our country. Despite the honor, respect, and gratitude they deserve, many veterans face the harsh and deadly reality of mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.

According to the National Cancer Institute, an estimated 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. Among them, a disproportionate number are veterans, with one-third of all mesothelioma cases linked to military service.

Asbestos exposure is a significant risk factor for mesothelioma, and many veterans were exposed to asbestos during their service, particularly those who served in the Navy, Army, Air Force, or Marine Corps.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the risks of mesothelioma for army veterans, the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and legal rights. We’ll also provide practical advice and resources to help veterans and their families cope with the disease and seek justice.

🛡️ Understanding the Causes and Risks of Mesothelioma

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, or heart. The disease can take decades to develop, with symptoms often appearing 20-50 years after exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in many industries, including construction, shipbuilding, automotive, and military, due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. However, asbestos fibers can become airborne when disturbed, leading to inhalation and ingestion, which can damage the lungs and other organs and eventually cause cancer.

Why are Army Veterans at Risk?

Army veterans who served between World War II and the Vietnam War era are at particular risk of mesothelioma due to the widespread use of asbestos in military equipment and infrastructure. Asbestos was used in Army products like aircraft brakes, tanks, and insulation in buildings.

Additionally, many veterans worked in occupations that had a high risk of asbestos exposure, such as mechanics, welders, electricians, and plumbers. Even those who did not work directly with asbestos-containing materials could have been exposed indirectly through contaminated clothing, equipment, or living quarters.

What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can be vague and similar to other respiratory conditions, which can make diagnosis challenging. Some common symptoms include:

Symptoms	Description
Shortness of breath	Difficulty breathing, even at rest
Chest pain	Persistent or intermittent pain in the chest area
Coughing	Dry or productive cough that persists
Fatigue	Feeling tired and weak, even with rest
Unexplained weight loss	Losing weight without trying
Night sweats	Excessive sweating at night
Fever	Low-grade fever that persists

How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed and Treated?

If you are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, it is essential to see your doctor immediately. Your doctor may refer you to a specialist, such as an oncologist or pulmonologist, who can perform diagnostic tests such as:

• Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, or MRI scans
• Biopsies, where a small sample of tissue is taken for analysis
• Blood tests to look for proteins associated with mesothelioma

If mesothelioma is diagnosed, treatment options may include:

• Surgery to remove cancerous tissue
• Radiation therapy to kill cancer cells
• Chemotherapy to destroy cancer cells or slow their growth
• Clinical trials of new treatments or therapies

🏥 Navigating Legal Rights and Compensation Options

What Legal Rights Do Army Veterans Have?

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may have legal rights to seek compensation from the companies that exposed you to asbestos. Army veterans may be eligible to file a VA claim for disability compensation or a lawsuit against the asbestos companies responsible for their exposure.

It is crucial to work with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who can help you navigate the complex legal system and maximize your chances of receiving fair and just compensation.

What Compensation Options Are Available?

Compensation for mesothelioma can include:

• Medical expenses, including treatment costs and travel expenses
• Lost wages or income due to the illness or disability
• Pain and suffering due to physical and emotional distress
• Funeral expenses or wrongful death damages

The amount and availability of compensation can vary depending on many factors, such as the severity of the illness, the duration and extent of asbestos exposure, and the state and federal laws.

📞 Taking Action and Seeking Support

How Can Army Veterans and Their Families Cope with Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma can be a devastating diagnosis, not only for the veteran but also for their family and loved ones. Coping with the disease can involve many challenges, such as managing symptoms, undergoing treatment, dealing with financial and legal issues, and adjusting to the emotional toll of the illness.

However, there are many resources and support networks available for army veterans and their families, such as:

Organization	Contact Information
Mesothelioma Veterans Center	1-877-404-9992
Veterans Crisis Line	1-800-273-8255
VA Mesothelioma Claims	1-800-827-1000
American Cancer Society	1-800-227-2345

How Can We Raise Awareness and Advocate for Army Veterans with Mesothelioma?

It is vital to raise awareness about the risks and consequences of mesothelioma for army veterans and advocate for their rights and care. Some ways to get involved include:

• Supporting mesothelioma research and funding
• Contacting your elected officials and urging them to support veterans’ health and benefits
• Sharing your story and experiences with mesothelioma
• Volunteering or donating to mesothelioma charities and organizations

🌟 Conclusion

As we conclude this article, we want to express our sincere appreciation and gratitude for our army veterans who have sacrificed so much for our country. We also want to acknowledge the challenges and risks they face with mesothelioma, a disease that is preventable and avoidable.

We hope that this article has provided valuable information, insights, and resources to help army veterans and their families navigate the complex and challenging journey of mesothelioma. We urge you to seek medical, legal, and emotional support as needed and take action to protect your health and rights.

🚨 Disclaimer

The information contained in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical or legal advice. We encourage you to consult with your healthcare provider and legal counsel for individual consultation and guidance.