Asbestos Exposure Veterans: A Looming Health Crisis

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News Summary

Health crisis among veterans due to asbestos exposure; awareness and advocacy needed.

Veterans Face Health Crisis Linked to Asbestos Exposure

The history of the U.S. Armed Forces is steeped in valor and sacrifice, but what may not be widely known is the looming health crisis affecting thousands of veterans due to asbestos exposure. Throughout the last century, particularly during World War II, the military relied heavily on asbestos-containing products to mass-produce equipment. With decades having passed since their service, many American veterans are now grappling with serious health complications associated with this toxic mineral.

Staggering Statistics: A Silent Epidemic

Every year, around 3,000 Americans receive a mesothelioma diagnosis, a terminal cancer directly linked to asbestos exposure, with nearly one-third of these cases involving veterans. The veterans from the Second World War, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War are particularly affected, as they were often exposed to asbestos without adequate health risk considerations. The Navy, in particular, stands out; it extensively used asbestos on naval vessels built before the 1980s, putting personnel at significant risk.

The Hidden Dangers: Military Installations and Equipment

Asbestos was prevalent in military bases and installations, with many veterans unknowingly inhaling harmful airborne fibers during their service. These fibers can lead to critical health issues, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. The alarming part is that symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not manifest for decades, leaving veterans unaware of their exposure until it’s too late.

A Focus on Mississippi’s Veterans

Mississippi houses several military installations, including Keesler Air Force Base and the Navy Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport, historically significant sites that contributed to veterans’ exposure to asbestos during their operational history. Veterans from these bases are encouraged to monitor their health closely, particularly with regular check-ups including chest X-rays or CT scans that can detect potential asbestos-related diseases early.

Emergence of the PACT Act

Recognizing the plight of veterans, the PACT Act of 2022 has ushered in a new era of support, extending VA benefits to approximately 3.5 million veterans exposed to toxic substances during service. Following the implementation of this act, over 6 million veterans have been screened for toxic exposure, and more than 1.4 million have received approval for benefits. In Mississippi alone, around 11,000 veterans have filed claims under this act, resulting in over 2,800 veterans gaining access to expanded benefits aimed at addressing their asbestos-related conditions.

Awareness and Advocacy: The Way Forward

Advocacy for veterans is crucial, particularly in raising awareness about the lasting impact of asbestos exposure. Veterans are encouraged to share their experiences and actively seek resources and support. Legal avenues are also available for those pursuing compensation for asbestos-related health issues. Furthermore, information regarding VA claims can be accessed through state veteran service websites, ensuring that veterans remain informed of their rights and options.

The Impact of Agent Orange

Not limited to asbestos, veterans face another potential health hazard: Agent Orange. Many veterans stationed at Fort Ord might have been exposed to this herbicide known for its adverse health effects, including cancer. Although the Pentagon maintains a list of sites where Agent Orange was tested, Fort Ord is notably absent, despite mounting evidence of contamination. This oversight has led to ongoing health complaints among veterans who served there, highlighting the importance of continued research and recognition.

Looking Ahead

The fight to support veterans and address the impacts of hazardous exposures is far from over. Continuous studies by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry are underway to investigate chemical exposure among former Fort Ord residents. Awareness of these issues is paramount for improving diagnosis and treatment outcomes for veterans affected by asbestos and other toxic exposures. As more veterans realize the risks they face, the conversation around support and advocacy will only intensify, promising a path toward better health outcomes and compensation for those who served.