Mesothelioma in the Military Navy: An Overview

The United States Navy is one of the largest and most powerful naval forces in the world, boasting an extensive fleet of ships and submarines, as well as numerous personnel who devote their lives to serving and protecting their country. Unfortunately, many of these brave heroes have also been exposed to a dangerous substance called asbestos during their service, which puts them at risk of developing a rare and deadly form of cancer known as mesothelioma.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in a wide range of products until it was banned in the United States in the 1970s. Sadly, the symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to develop, which means that many military veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service are only now beginning to experience the effects of this devastating disease.

How Does Mesothelioma Affect Military Navy Veterans?

Military personnel are at a particularly high risk of developing mesothelioma due to the widespread use of asbestos in naval vessels and submarines. Navy veterans who served between the 1930s and 1970s are especially at risk, as asbestos was commonly used in insulation, pipes, and other materials on ships and submarines during this time period.

Although the United States Navy has taken steps to remove asbestos from its vessels and reduce exposure to this dangerous substance, many veterans are still at risk of developing mesothelioma. In fact, it is estimated that thousands of Navy veterans have been affected by this disease, and many more may be diagnosed in the coming years.

What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type of cancer and the area of the body that is affected. However, some common symptoms that Navy veterans with mesothelioma may experience include:

Symptoms	Description
Chest pain	Pain in the chest or ribs, which may worsen with coughing or breathing
Shortness of breath	Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity
Cough	A persistent cough that does not go away, even after treatment
Fatigue	Feeling tired or weak, even after getting enough sleep
Unexplained weight loss	Losing weight without trying or making any significant changes to your diet or exercise routine
Fever	An unexplained fever that does not go away, even after taking medication
Night sweats	Sweating excessively while sleeping, which may disrupt your sleep patterns

What Are the Risk Factors for Mesothelioma?

There are several risk factors that can increase your chances of developing mesothelioma, including:

Exposure to asbestos:

As mentioned earlier, exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, especially for an extended period of time, you may be at risk of developing this disease.

Age:

Mesothelioma is more common in older adults, with most cases occurring in people over the age of 65.

Gender:

Men are more likely to develop mesothelioma than women, possibly due to the fact that men are more likely to work in industries that expose them to asbestos.

Genetics:

Although rare, some people may have a genetic predisposition to mesothelioma, which makes them more susceptible to this disease.

How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

If you are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, your doctor may recommend several tests to diagnose this disease, including:

Imaging tests:

Tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs can help your doctor look for signs of mesothelioma in your body.

Biopsy:

A biopsy involves removing a small piece of tissue from your body and examining it under a microscope. This can help your doctor confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma.

Blood tests:

While there is no specific blood test that can diagnose mesothelioma, certain blood markers may be elevated in people with this disease.

What Are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?

There are several treatment options available for mesothelioma, including:

Surgery:

If the cancer is caught early enough, surgery may be an option to remove the affected tissue.

Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body.

Radiation therapy:

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams of radiation to kill cancer cells.

Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy is a newer treatment option for mesothelioma that involves using drugs to help your immune system fight the cancer.

What Can You Do if You Have Mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Additionally, you may be eligible for compensation for your medical expenses and other damages related to your exposure to asbestos. A qualified mesothelioma lawyer can help you explore your legal options and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a serious disease that can have devastating effects on veterans and their families. If you or someone you love has been affected by this disease, it is important to seek medical and legal assistance as soon as possible. By working with qualified professionals and taking advantage of available treatment options and legal remedies, you can take important steps toward healing and seeking justice for the harm that has been done.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or medical advice. If you believe that you or someone you love may be suffering from mesothelioma or another health condition related to exposure to asbestos, please consult with a qualified medical professional as soon as possible.