The Surprising Percentage of Veterans with Mesothelioma

Welcome, dear readers! Today, we want to talk about a critical medical condition affecting our veterans. It’s a medical condition that many people have no idea affects so many of our military personnel, particularly those who served in the Navy. We’re talking about mesothelioma. This aggressive cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos and can develop decades after exposure. Many veterans are at risk of developing mesothelioma due to their occupation or service during the time when asbestos was widely used.

Introduction

Before we dive into the statistics, let’s briefly explain what mesothelioma is and how it affects the body. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, which get lodged in the lining of these organs and cause cellular changes. Mesothelioma is a slow-growing cancer, and its symptoms may not appear until 20-50 years after exposure to asbestos. Unfortunately, there is no cure for mesothelioma, and the average life expectancy after diagnosis is less than one year.

Now, let’s dive into the statistics and explore the percentage of veterans affected by this deadly disease.

Percentage of Veterans with Mesothelioma

According to recent studies, approximately 30% of all mesothelioma patients are veterans, with the majority being Navy veterans. The use of asbestos was widespread in the Navy during World War II and continued through the 1970s. The material was used in insulation, pipes, gaskets, and other ship components. Asbestos was also used in Army and Air Force installations, with the highest risk of exposure being in mechanic bays, boiler rooms, and construction projects.

The incidence of mesothelioma in veterans has been on the rise, with an estimated 3,000 new cases diagnosed each year. This number is expected to increase in the coming years as more veterans age and develop mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos decades ago.

Table: Percentage of Veterans with Mesothelioma by Branch of Service

Branch of Service	Percentage of Mesothelioma Cases
Navy	33%
Army	28%
Air Force	14%
Marines	4%

FAQs: The Most Common Questions About Veterans and Mesothelioma

1. What is mesothelioma, and how do veterans get it?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Veterans can get mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos during their service.

2. How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure?

Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.

3. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma may include shortness of breath, chest pain, fatigue, coughing, and weight loss.

4. Can mesothelioma be cured?

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation can help manage the symptoms and prolong survival.

5. Are there any support programs for veterans with mesothelioma?

Yes, there are several support programs available to veterans with mesothelioma, including VA benefits and legal assistance.

6. How can veterans reduce their risk of developing mesothelioma?

Veterans can reduce their risk of developing mesothelioma by avoiding exposure to asbestos, wearing protective equipment when working with asbestos-containing materials, and seeking medical attention if they experience any symptoms related to mesothelioma.

7. Is there any financial compensation available to veterans with mesothelioma?

Yes, there are several financial compensation options available to veterans with mesothelioma, including VA benefits, asbestos trust funds, and legal settlements.

8. How can family members of veterans with mesothelioma get support?

Families of veterans with mesothelioma can seek support from organizations such as the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization.

9. Who is most at risk of developing mesothelioma?

Individuals who have been exposed to asbestos are most at risk of developing mesothelioma, including veterans who served during a time when asbestos was widely used.

10. Are there any clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment?

Yes, there are several clinical trials for mesothelioma treatment, including immunotherapy, gene therapy, and targeted therapy.

11. How can veterans find out if they were exposed to asbestos during their service?

Veterans can request their military personnel records to determine if they were exposed to asbestos during their service. They can also contact a mesothelioma lawyer for assistance.

12. How can veterans file a claim for mesothelioma compensation?

Veterans can file a claim for mesothelioma compensation through the VA, asbestos trust funds, or a mesothelioma lawyer.

13. Can veterans with mesothelioma receive disability benefits?

Yes, veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible for disability benefits through the VA.

Conclusion

We hope this article has shed some light on the percentage of veterans affected by mesothelioma. It’s a devastating disease that has impacted too many of our military personnel. We urge all veterans who may have been exposed to asbestos to get screened for mesothelioma regularly. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, seek medical attention and explore your legal and financial compensation options.

Let’s honor our veterans by doing everything we can to prevent and treat mesothelioma.

Closing Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Please consult with your healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health or mesothelioma. We do not assume any liability for the use or misuse of the information provided in this article.