Mesothelioma Norfolk Navy Yard: A Silent Killer Among Veterans

🚫Attention all veterans and their families!🚫

The Norfolk Navy Yard was once a bustling hub of activity for the United States military. However, it has left a legacy of devastation and tragedy for many of the veterans who served there. Mesothelioma, a deadly cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, is a silent killer among those who were stationed at the Norfolk Navy Yard.

The History of the Norfolk Navy Yard

The Norfolk Navy Yard, also known as the Norfolk Naval Shipyard, was established in 1767 and has a long and storied history. It played a significant role in both World Wars and the Cold War, and was a pivotal location for shipbuilding and repair.

Unfortunately, it was also a location that used asbestos extensively in its shipbuilding and repair processes. Asbestos was valued for its resistance to heat and fire, and was used in many Navy ships and buildings during the time that the Norfolk Navy Yard was active.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was frequently used in construction and manufacturing before its dangers were known.

Sadly, there is no known cure for mesothelioma, and it often goes undiagnosed until it has progressed into the later stages.

How Asbestos Affected Norfolk Navy Yard Workers

Workers at the Norfolk Navy Yard were exposed to asbestos on a daily basis, whether they were working in shipbuilding or repair, construction, boiler repair, or in one of the many buildings on the yard.

What’s even more devastating is the fact that the symptoms of mesothelioma often do not appear until many years after exposure. This means that veterans who served at the Norfolk Navy Yard may not have even realized that they were exposed to asbestos until it was too late.

Mesothelioma Symptoms and Diagnosis

The symptoms of mesothelioma can be easily mistaken for other ailments, and this is one reason why it can be difficult to diagnose. The most common symptoms include:

Symptoms	Description
Chest pain	Painful sensation when breathing or coughing
Coughing	Persistent, dry cough
Shortness of breath	Difficulty breathing or catching one’s breath
Fever	Low-grade fever that persists for long periods
Fatigue	Exhaustion and weakness
Weight loss	Unexplained weight loss

If you or a loved one is experiencing any of these symptoms and have a history of working at the Norfolk Navy Yard, it is essential to consult a medical professional for a proper diagnosis.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options

Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are several treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. Your medical professional will recommend the best treatment plan based on the stage of the disease and your overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing until its dangers were discovered. It is still present in many older buildings and products today.

How does asbestos cause mesothelioma?

When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become stuck in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen, causing inflammation and damage to the cells. Over time, this can lead to the development of mesothelioma.

How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?

The latency period for mesothelioma can range from 10 to 50 years, meaning that symptoms may not appear until many years after exposure to asbestos.

Is mesothelioma only caused by exposure to asbestos?

Yes, mesothelioma is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos.

Can family members of those exposed to asbestos also develop mesothelioma?

Yes, family members of those exposed to asbestos can also develop mesothelioma if they are exposed to the fibers through contact with clothing or other materials that have been contaminated with asbestos.

Can smoking increase the risk of mesothelioma?

No, smoking does not increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, those who have been exposed to asbestos and also smoke have a higher risk of developing lung cancer.

Is financial compensation available for veterans with mesothelioma?

Yes, veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible for financial compensation through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) or through legal action against the companies responsible for their exposure to asbestos.

What is the statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits?

The statute of limitations for mesothelioma lawsuits varies by state but is typically around two to three years from the time of diagnosis.

How can I find a mesothelioma specialist?

You can find a mesothelioma specialist by contacting the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation or the National Cancer Institute.

Is mesothelioma only found in veterans?

No, mesothelioma can affect anyone who has been exposed to asbestos, including those who worked in construction, manufacturing, or other industries that used asbestos.

How can I protect myself from asbestos exposure?

The best way to protect yourself from asbestos exposure is to avoid working with or around asbestos-containing materials. If you must work with these materials, be sure to wear protective clothing and respirators, and follow all safety guidelines and regulations.

How can I get tested for mesothelioma?

If you are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma and have a history of exposure to asbestos, talk to your doctor about getting tested. They may recommend imaging tests, biopsies, or other diagnostic tests to confirm a diagnosis.

Can mesothelioma be cured?

Currently, there is no known cure for mesothelioma. However, treatment options are available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What can I do if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is essential to seek the advice of a medical professional right away. Additionally, you may wish to contact a lawyer who specializes in mesothelioma cases to explore your legal options for compensation and justice.

Conclusion

The legacy of asbestos at the Norfolk Navy Yard has left a devastating impact on the lives of many veterans and their families. Mesothelioma is a deadly cancer that can go undetected for many years, and those who served at the Norfolk Navy Yard are at a higher risk of developing it.

It is essential to be aware of the symptoms of mesothelioma and to seek medical attention if you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, know that you are not alone, and there are resources and support available to you.

Closing

Mesothelioma is a tragic disease that has affected many veterans and their families. We hope that this article has raised awareness about the dangers of asbestos exposure and the risks of developing mesothelioma.

If you or a loved one has been affected by mesothelioma, know that you are not alone, and there is support and help available to you. Please seek medical attention if you believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, and don’t hesitate to reach out to a support group or legal professional for guidance and assistance.