2007/06/01

Asbestos-Induced Lung Cancer in Veterans

According to statistics, more than 30 percent of Americans suffering from mesothelioma—a deadly asbestos-induced lung cancer—were exposed to asbestos while serving their nation. Veterans and shipyard workers arguably face the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma or similar disease because of the extensive use of asbestos in military equipment and products, buildings, ships, and submarines. This is especially true for veterans who served during or after World War II and before the1970s when the government began regulating use of asbestos. Sadly, hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of American veterans have suffered exposure to asbestos, putting them at higher risk of developing asbestosis, mesothelioma, or other illness.

Veterans who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-induced lung cancer such as mesothelioma have legal rights and may be able to recover compensation for their losses and suffering. To learn if you are eligible to file a claim for your injuries, please contact us today. One of our experienced asbestos attorneys will evaluate your case FREE of charge and determine your best course of action.

The Risk for Navy Veterans

Asbestos-induced lung cancer is a significant problem among Navy veterans, particularly because the use of asbestos was so very extensive on ships. Virtually no area on a Navy ship built before the 1970s is safe, including:


Fire and engine rooms
Boiler rooms
Navigation rooms
Mess halls
Sleeping quarters

Additionally, commonly used products such as gaskets, cables, insulation, adhesives, valves, and numerous others contained asbestos. Navy veterans, like other veterans, were prone to carry asbestos dust home on their clothes, thereby exposing their loved ones to the dangerous fibers.

Veterans Rights

Veterans groups across the country have started taking action to ensure their rights are protected. For instance, some veterans organizations have called on Congress to fund early lung cancer detection programs, which is especially important given the long latency period for mesothelioma—usually 30 to 50 years. Individual veterans and, in some cases, their families are filing legal claims to hold responsible parties accountable for the suffering caused by asbestos-induced lung disease.

If you or a veteran you love has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, you may be entitled to seek financial reimbursement for your damages. Please contact us today to schedule a complimentary consultation with an experienced asbestos lawyer.

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