Mesothelioma Cancer and Navy Veterans
Asbestos cancer is common among veterans who worked in shipyards and boiler rooms. Hundreds of thousands of people have been exposed to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral with carcinogenic properties. This has been widely used in navy shipyards until the late 1970s and early 1980s. Unaware of the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, those who worked on ships used little or no protection. A large number of veterans are now suffering from malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis and other lethal forms of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos.
Shipyard Asbestos Exposure
This naturally occurring mineral can be found in over 300 products used by the Navy. Asbestos is able to withstand chemicals, fire, heat, and electricity. By the middle of the 20th century, this material was heavily used in ships and buildings. Studies have shown that over 79 percent of those who worked on shipyards exhibited signs of lung abnormalities caused by exposure to asbestos.
Electricians, military contractors, pipefitters, and boilermen face a high risk of mesothelioma. These people were exposed to increased levels of asbestos for long periods of time. This material was used in certain textiles, insulation products, sealants, boilers, valves, roofing materials, and textile garments.
Asbestos Exposure - The Main Cause of Mesothelioma
Thousands of Navy veterans have been diagnosed with mesothelioma decades after their initial exposure to asbestos. This lethal form of cancer affects the lining of the chest cavity, heart, or abdomen. Mesothelioma is often called asbestos cancer. This aggressive disease causes persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, loss of appetite, weakness, fever, night sweats, anemia, and accumulation of fluid in the lungs or abdomen.
Mesothelioma is generally diagnosed in late stages. People exposed to asbestos in the 1940s, 50s, 60s, and 70s are now being diagnosed with this rare form of cancer. Most patients receive a poor prognosis and live only a few months after diagnosis. Statistics show that over 86 percent of those who worked with asbestos-containing products on shipyards suffer from asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.
How Does Asbestos Exposure Affect Your Health?
The term "asbestos" refers to a group of six minerals that consists of microscopic fibers. When swallowed or inhaled, these fibers may get trapped in the lungs. Asbestos exposure is one of the main causes of lung cancer, pleural effusion, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. Research indicates an association between asbestos exposure and throat cancer. Many of those who were exposed to asbestos suffer from cancers of the kidneys, colon, gallbladder, and esophagus.
The armed forces used this material extensively during World War II. Millions of Navy veterans suffer from asbestos-related diseases and breathing disorders. Every person working in shipyards was at high risk of asbestos exposure. Decades after these people served their countries, many are being diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Navy veterans who have been exposed to asbestos and suffer from mesothelioma are eligible for financial compensation. We can help you find the best mesothelioma lawyers. For more information, simply fill in the form below.