Mesothelioma Risk Concerning for Veterans Exposed to Asbestos During Service

Tuesday, August 17th, 2010

According to data released by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, thousands of military veterans are now suffering from the asbestos-related cancer mesothelioma. This illness is a result of veterans being exposed to asbestos while working on naval vessels where it was used in a number of materials, especially as the primary source of insulation.

Malignant mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused almost exclusively by asbestos exposure. Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are reported every year in the United States. The cancer has earned a reputation as being particularly difficult to diagnose and treat, and to date no cure has been found. Some patients who are diagnosed in an early stage of development may qualify for a combination of treatments (known as multimodality therapy) with hopes of improving their mesothelioma life expectancy.

Although asbestos materials were used in every division of the Armed Forces, the Navy alone used more than 300 asbestos-containing products from the 1930s through the 1970s. The toxic mineral appeared on most ships used by the Navy and in shipyards where vessels were built. Because mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to develop, those who served decades ago are now demonstrating symptoms of asbestos-related illnesses.

Asbestos was commonly used as insulation around piping, boilers, sleeping quarters and navigation halls aboard vessels. The mineral’s natural resistance to fire and highly durable characteristics made it ideal for use in all sectors of the military, where it was also used in aircraft, vehicles and buildings.

Mesothelioma cancer typically develops decades after moderate to heavy exposure to asbestos. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in tissue, causing inflammation or infection over time.

The threat of asbestos exposure remains a risk for military men and women who are deployed and stationed in countries around the world or those who repair and demolish contaminated ships. Veterans who suffer from mesothelioma as a result of service-related exposure may apply for Veteran Affairs benefits. Those who suspect they may have been exposed to asbestos should seek annual checkups for signs of asbestos disease.

For more information on asbestos exposure and mesothelioma, please visit the Mesothelioma Center.