Introduction
Welcome, readers, to this informative piece on mesothelioma navy submarines. As you may know, mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, many navy veterans who served onboard submarines during the 20th century were exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk of developing this deadly disease. In this article, we will explore the history of asbestos use on navy submarines, the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, and what navy veterans can do if they have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. Let’s dive in!
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in a variety of construction materials due to its durability and resistance to fire and heat. In the early 20th century, the U.S. Navy began using asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) on ships and submarines to protect against fire and heat. These materials included insulation, gaskets, adhesives, and more. Unfortunately, the Navy was unaware of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure at the time.
It wasn’t until the 1970s that the dangers of asbestos became widely known, and the Navy began phasing out its use of ACMs. However, many navy veterans who served onboard submarines before this time were already exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk of developing mesothelioma later in life.
The Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to appear and can include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and fatigue. Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, and the prognosis is often poor.
Other health risks associated with asbestos exposure include lung cancer, asbestosis, and pleural plaques. These conditions can also take years to develop and can have serious consequences for a person’s health and quality of life.
| Submarine Class | Years in Operation | Number of Submarines | Known ACMs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gato | 1941-1959 | 77 | Insulation, gaskets, adhesives, cement board |
| Balao | 1943-1963 | 120 | Insulation, gaskets, adhesives, cement board |
| Tench | 1944-1975 | 29 | Insulation, gaskets, adhesives, cement board, electrical wiring |
| Barbel | 1959-1990 | 6 | Insulation, gaskets, adhesives, cement board, electrical wiring, flooring |
As the table above shows, navy submarines that were in operation during the mid-20th century were likely to contain a variety of ACMs, including insulation, gaskets, adhesives, cement board, electrical wiring, and flooring. These materials were used throughout the submarines, including in the engine room, living quarters, and other areas.
Unfortunately, navy veterans who served onboard these submarines were often exposed to asbestos fibers when these materials were disturbed, such as during maintenance or repair work. As a result, many veterans have developed mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases later in life.
Frequently Asked Questions
A: Navy veterans who served on submarines between 1940 and 1990 were likely exposed to asbestos, which is the only known cause of mesothelioma.
Q: What are ACMs?
A: ACMs are asbestos-containing materials, which were commonly used in the construction of ships and submarines before the dangers of asbestos became widely known.
Q: What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
A: Symptoms of mesothelioma can include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and more.
Q: Is there a cure for mesothelioma?
A: Unfortunately, there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, and the prognosis is often poor.
Q: What should I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
A: If you are a navy veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you may be eligible for compensation through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure.
A: Yes, family members of navy veterans who were exposed to asbestos can also develop mesothelioma through secondary exposure. This can occur when asbestos fibers are brought home on clothing or shoes and are inhaled by family members.
Q: What should I do if I think I have been exposed to asbestos?
A: If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to speak with your doctor and monitor your health for any symptoms of asbestos-related diseases. You should also inform your doctor of your potential exposure to asbestos so they can monitor your health more closely.
Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?
A: Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, such as construction or shipbuilding, be sure to follow all safety protocols and wear protective gear to minimize your risk of exposure.
Q: Is there a statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit?
A: Yes, there is a statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. The time limit varies by state, so it is important to speak with an attorney as soon as possible if you believe you have a case.
Q: How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?
A: Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after asbestos exposure.
Q: What is the life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma?
A: The life expectancy for someone with mesothelioma varies depending on the stage at which it is diagnosed, the age and overall health of the patient, and other factors. On average, mesothelioma patients have a life expectancy of 12 to 21 months.
Q: Is mesothelioma a hereditary disease?
A: No, mesothelioma is not a hereditary disease. However, family members of navy veterans who were exposed to asbestos can develop mesothelioma through secondary exposure, as mentioned earlier.
Q: What is the difference between mesothelioma and lung cancer?
A: Mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, while lung cancer is a cancer that develops in the lung tissue itself. Both types of cancer can be caused by asbestos exposure.
A: Yes, navy veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible for financial assistance through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.
Conclusion
As we have seen, mesothelioma navy submarines is a serious issue that has affected many navy veterans over the years. The use of asbestos-containing materials on submarines during the mid-20th century put many veterans at risk of developing this deadly disease later in life. If you are a navy veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, it is important to know that you may be eligible for compensation through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs or a lawsuit against the companies responsible for your exposure. It is also important to speak with your doctor and monitor your health for any symptoms of asbestos-related diseases if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos. Together, we can raise awareness of this hidden danger and work to prevent others from falling victim to mesothelioma.
Closing Disclaimer
The information presented in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. If you have been exposed to asbestos or have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, it is important
to speak with a qualified lawyer or medical professional to discuss your options. The use of the internet or this form for communication with the firm or any individual member of the firm does not establish an attorney-client relationship.
