Among all those individuals in the United States stricken with mesothelioma cancer, veterans represent the group of people with the highest rate of the disease. The reason why is simple. Asbestos, the only known cause of mesothelioma, was used by the U.S. military for literally hundreds of applications. From the 1930s until the late 1970s, veterans - especially those who worked aboard ships or in shipyards - were regularly exposed to hazardous asbestos, a naturally-mined substance whose sharp fibers can be inhaled and can penetrate the lungs, causing scarring and, eventually, pleural mesothelioma. While pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, veteran asbestos exposure has also been connected to pericardial mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma, which affect the lining of the heart and abdominal cavities.The branch of the service one served in does not matter. Asbestos was present in many locations owned or frequented by members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Because exposure was unavoidable for some, mesothelioma remains one of the most serious diseases affecting veterans, particularly those who served between World War II and the Vietnam Conflict.
Navy
U.S. Naval veterans are the most seriously affected by asbestos of any group of military men and women. In fact, mesothelioma navy cases are among the most common incidence of the disease in the United States. This is because these were most often the individuals who worked both aboard ships and in shipyards. Ships were strewn with asbestos. The mineral could be found in many parts of each ship, from the galley to the gun rooms. Because of its excellent heat-resistant properties it was used in insulation, to cover pipes, as an adhesive, in floor and ceiling tiles, in gaskets and valves, and wrapped around boilers - just to name a few of its many uses. Members of the U.S. Navy were exposed daily and it was not unusual for them to breathe in airborne fibers, which would later result in a mesothelioma diagnosis.
Army
Even though members of the U.S. Army didn't generally serve aboard ships, they were still exposed to a variety of asbestos-containing materials. Asbestos was inexpensive and readily available, so the government used it in many of the buildings that lined the Army bases in this country and overseas, mainly as insulation. As buildings aged, the material became damaged or crumbly, resulting in airborne dust and the inhalation of tiny, sharp particles of asbestos. As a matter of fact, anyone living or working in an old or ill-repaired base facility - even today - may be susceptible to developingasbestos cancer.
Marines
Traditionally, the U.S. Navy and the Marines have enjoyed a close relationship, working side by side, especially in times of war. For that reason, many Marines served on U.S. naval ships, incurring many of the same dangers face by Navy veterans. Asbestos exposure in the tight quarters of ships caused some U.S. Marines to develop mesothelioma, an asbestos-caused cancer. As with members of the Army, Marines may have also encountered asbestos in buildings in their camps or bases.
Air Force
Members of the U.S. Air Force may have encountered asbestos-containing parts in airplane engines, brakes, and other pieces of equipment that were insulated with the mineral to make them more fire and heat resistant. Anyone who serviced or repaired these planes or machinery may have inhaled asbestos dust on a regular basis. In addition, the mineral was used in housing for members of the United States Air Force and their families, largely because it was cheap and easy to come by.
Those who have been affected by military asbestos exposure should seek help from one the many mesothelioma clinics and cancer centers across the United States. Those who have developed asbestos-related health complications may be eligible for financial compensation through the assistance of a mesothelioma attorney. To find out more about new mesothelioma treatment options, clinical trials, and financial compensation programs for those eligible, please fill out the brief form on this page and we'll rush you a detailed mesothelioma information packet free of charge.
Additional Topics in this Section
Veteran Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma has affected Veterans of the armed forces in great numbers. Even though their tour of duty occurred several decades ago many are just now discovering that they have developed this asbestos-related disease.
Veteran Asbestos Exposure
Learn more about the asbestos exposure risk that Veterans faced in shipyards, on ships and at U.S. military bases while serving their country.
Veteran Medical Support
There are many treatment options and avenues available to Veterans seeking medical support for mesothelioma. The number of mesothelioma Navy cases is high as many of our nation's Veterans worked aboard Naval vessels or in shipyards where asbestos was present.
Veteran Treatment Centers
Veteran hospitals and treatment centers run by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs offer a complete range of medical services for Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma. Read more in this section.
Healing Resources for Veterans
There are a number of healing resources designed for Veterans who face specific post-deployment issues that can worsen with the development of serious health issues like mesothelioma.
Veteran Resources
The VA provides a range of resources for Veterans suffering from severe illnesses like mesothelioma or other diseases. Learn more about Vet Centers, Community Living Centers, Domiciliaries and more.
Veterans Blog
Read posts by Douglas Karr, Petty Officer Second Class, U.S. Navy Veteran on the Mesothelioma.com Veterans Blog.
Asbestos Exposure in Iraq
U.S. troops who served in Iraq may have been exposed to asbestos during their tour of service and may be at risk for developing mesothelioma.
Veterans and Hepatitis
Hepatitis C is a serious health concern for many of our country's Veterans. Learn more about the disease, how it gets transmitted and how it can be diagnosed and treated.
Veteran Legal Support
Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma might be eligible to receive financial compensation for lost income or medical expenses. Read more about Veteran legal rights and how a mesothelioma attorney can help with Veteran-specific issues.