Attention all US Navy veterans and sailors! Did you know that exposure to asbestos on board USS ships can result in a deadly form of cancer known as mesothelioma? In this article, we will dive deep into the risks of mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos on USS ships and what you can do to protect yourself.
Introduction
The US Navy relied heavily on asbestos for its ships’ construction from the 1930s until the late 1970s. Asbestos was used due to its fire-resistant properties, durability, and low cost. However, this material has been linked to the development of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen.
Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, and sailors and veterans who served on USS ships are at a higher risk of developing this disease. The toxic material was primarily used in insulation, pipes, boilers, gaskets, and many other parts of the ship.
Did you know? Mesothelioma can take up to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells that line the surface of organs. The most common form of mesothelioma is malignant pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs.
The disease is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was widely used in construction materials due to its fire-resistant properties. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the body’s tissues, leading to inflammation and, eventually, the development of cancer.
USS Ship Mesothelioma Risks – What You Need to Know
How Were Sailors and Veterans Exposed to Asbestos on USS Ships?
Sailors and veterans who served on USS ships were exposed to asbestos in multiple ways, including:
| Exposure Method | Description |
|---|---|
| Inhalation | Asbestos fibers were commonly released into the air during construction, repairs, and maintenance on the ship. |
| Ingestion | Sailors and veterans were often exposed to asbestos in their food and water supply, which became contaminated with asbestos fibers during transport or processing. |
| Contact | Exposure to asbestos also occurred through direct contact with contaminated materials, such as pipes, boilers, and insulation. |
Which USS Ships Had a High Risk of Mesothelioma?
Several USS ships were constructed with asbestos-containing materials, including:
- USS Enterprise
- USS Forrestal
- USS Independence
- USS Kitty Hawk
- USS Midway
- USS Saratoga
- USS Ticonderoga
- USS Intrepid
- USS Coral Sea
What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can take several years to appear after initial exposure to asbestos. Some common symptoms include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Chronic coughing
- Fever and sweating
- Fatigue
How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, and tissue biopsies. Once diagnosed, patients typically undergo a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy to manage the disease.
What Are the Long-term Effects of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a long-term disease that can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life. In addition to physical symptoms, patients may experience emotional and financial stress related to their diagnosis and treatment.
How Can You Protect Yourself from Mesothelioma?
The best way to protect yourself from mesothelioma is to take preventive measures, such as:
- Avoiding exposure to asbestos in the workplace and your home
- Wearing protective clothing and masks when working with asbestos-containing materials
- Quitting smoking and maintaining a healthy lifestyle
- Undergoing regular medical check-ups to monitor your health
What Should You Do If You Have Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is crucial to seek medical treatment and legal advice immediately. You may be entitled to financial compensation from the manufacturers of asbestos-containing products.
FAQs
Q: Can You Develop Mesothelioma from Second-hand Asbestos Exposure?
A: Yes, individuals who were exposed to asbestos fibers through secondary exposure, such as family members of USS ship workers, are also at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Q: How Can You Identify Asbestos-containing Materials?
A: Asbestos-containing materials are often found in insulation, flooring, roofing, and pipes. If you suspect that your home or workplace contains asbestos, it is essential to contact a professional asbestos inspector.
Q: Are There Any Legal Remedies Available for Mesothelioma Patients?
A: Yes, mesothelioma patients and their families may be entitled to financial compensation from the manufacturers of asbestos-containing products. It is crucial to seek legal advice from an experienced mesothelioma lawyer.
Q: Can Mesothelioma Be Cured?
A: There is currently no known cure for mesothelioma. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, some patients may experience a longer life expectancy and improved quality of life.
Q: What Is the Prognosis for Mesothelioma Patients?
A: The prognosis for mesothelioma patients varies depending on the stage of the disease, age, overall health, and treatment options. However, the five-year survival rate for mesothelioma is typically low, around 10% to 20%.
Q: Can I Still File a Lawsuit for Mesothelioma Even Though I Was Exposed to Asbestos Decades Ago?
A: Yes, mesothelioma patients and their families can still file a lawsuit for compensation, even if exposure to asbestos occurred decades ago. It is essential to contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to determine your legal rights.
Q: What Are the Most Common Causes of Mesothelioma?
A: The most common cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. However, other risk factors include radiation exposure, genetic predisposition, and certain viruses and chemicals.
Q: Can I Develop Mesothelioma After a Short Exposure to Asbestos?
A: Yes, even a short exposure to asbestos can increase your risk of developing mesothelioma. The duration and intensity of exposure are important factors that determine your risk of developing the disease.
Q: How Can You Lower Your Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?
A: To lower your risk of developing mesothelioma, you should avoid exposure to asbestos, quit smoking, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and undergo regular medical check-ups.
Q: What Is the Difference Between Asbestosis and Mesothelioma?
A: Asbestosis is a lung disease caused by breathing in asbestos fibers, which can result in scarring and inflammation of the lungs. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen and is caused by exposure to asbestos.
Q: Who Is at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?
A: Individuals who worked in jobs that involved exposure to asbestos, such as shipbuilders, construction workers, and miners, are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma. Family members of these workers may also be at risk of developing the disease through secondary exposure.
Q: Is Mesothelioma a Rare Disease?
A: Yes, mesothelioma is a rare disease that affects approximately 3,000 people each year in the United States.
Conclusion
As a sailor or veteran who served on USS ships, it is crucial to understand the risks of mesothelioma from exposure to asbestos. By taking preventive measures and seeking medical treatment and legal advice, you can protect yourself and your family from the devastating effects of this disease.
In conclusion, we hope this article has
provided you with valuable information about USS ship mesothelioma risks. If you have any concerns or questions about this topic, please do not hesitate to seek professional advice.
Remember: Early detection and treatment are key to managing mesothelioma and improving your quality of life.
Closing Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical or legal advice. The information provided in this article is accurate to the best of our knowledge and is subject to change. We strongly advise you to seek professional advice if you suspect that you have been exposed to asbestos or have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.
