Did you know that veterans constitute about 8% of the U.S. population, yet 30% of all asbestos-related deaths can be attributed to them? One-third of all newly recorded mesothelioma cases each year also consist of veterans.
The American military used asbestos in ships, vehicles, barracks, and equipment, and service members were often unknowingly exposed to inhaling dangerous asbestos fibers for long periods.
According to army veteran mesothelioma attorney William M. Graham, mesothelioma is a fiercely painful disease symptomatically. Depending on whom you ask, the average life expectancy for most diagnosed patients is sometimes given as equal to or less than 18 months.
Mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and several other dreadful diseases are presently experienced by many veterans.
Let us now take a little look at the possibilities of exposure in the armed forces and what a veteran does when facing this problem.
Understanding Asbestos and Its Uses in the Military
Asbestos was the main material used for the insulation of ships, aircraft, and buildings. Troops depended upon it to withstand extreme conditions, so it became a fit for almost every military purpose.
You may have even come face-to-face with it yourself in some capacity during your service, from being in the field to various equipment and structures. The knowledge about asbestos in its historical context would have set the ground for some interesting discussion among veterans in recollection of their period in service.
Health Risks Associated With Asbestos Exposure
Long-term repeated exposure to asbestos in the form of dust induced by inhalation is known to cause a variety of diseases. Asbestos exposure inside the military violates several rules and thus had to be suspended. Depending on long-term exposure, lung cancer, mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other life-threatening conditions can develop.
In the worst of cases, asbestos-related illness could cause wrongful death. According to a wrongful death lawyer in Tucson, families can file a survival action seeking compensation for the economic damages incurred by the deceased’s estate, such as lost income from the deceased during the period they spent in the hospital before their death, lost investment valuations, and medical and treatment costs related to the deceased’s final injury or illness.
Most diseases develop for a long while. The time for the symptoms to appear can be up to ten years. Time-oriented detection and treatment must be pursued to counteract this issue.
If you are aware of these potential hazards, you will empower yourself to get proper care. Maintaining regular checkups and speaking with your doctors can explain a good deal about your health regime ahead of you.
Identifying Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Diseases
These are some conditions related to asbestos that can cause health problems, for which an early diagnosis is particularly important, especially for the veteran population. One may experience any of the following symptoms: continuous dry cough, shortness of breath, and chest pains. One could truly face problems with asbestosis or mesothelioma.
Fatigue and weight loss can serve as other symptoms of asbestos-related diseases. Keep alert throughout. You must go to a doctor at the slightest symptom if you were exposed to or worked in an asbestos environment.
Being proactive is best for you to understand your disease.
Resources and Support for Affected Veterans
If, during your military service, the exposure to asbestos turned out to be a health issue for you, there are numerous ways and sources of support that you can lean on while conducting your struggle with health problems. For one instance, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides for the healthcare and benefits of veterans.
There are support groups that bring together people who share your experiences and feelings. There are sets of websites working in the capacity of veteran health information systems that offer guidance on asbestos-related diseases, while local veterans’ groups are there for further assistance and advice.
Seeking help from a community would encourage you to take action on your health concerns.
Steps for Veterans to Take if Exposed to Asbestos
Since exposure to asbestos can give rise to health problems, a veteran has to undertake specific steps in protecting his/her well-being. When there is a suspicion of asbestos exposure, one should definitely see a physician. The doctor should preferably have good skill and knowledge regarding asbestos-related disorders.
Keep service records and write down detailed notes on any symptom, dates when first symptoms were noticed, and any other related detail. These will be of particular use later. Look for other veterans who are going through similar problems. They can offer moral support and share experiences with you.
There are organizations concerning veterans’ health that can supply you with the tools and the advocacy you require.
