Brooklyn Naval Shipyards Mesothelioma: What You Need to Know

For those who have worked or lived near the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards, the effects of asbestos exposure may be all too familiar. Mesothelioma, a cancer caused by asbestos exposure, has affected countless individuals who were exposed to the toxic material while working or living near the shipyards. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of Brooklyn Naval Shipyards mesothelioma, including the causes, symptoms, treatment options, and legal resources available to those affected.

The History of Brooklyn Naval Shipyards

Brooklyn Naval Shipyards, also known as the New York Naval Shipyard, was built in 1801 and was one of the most prominent shipyards in the United States during World War II. The shipyard was responsible for building and repairing some of the most famous ships in history, including the USS Missouri and the USS Nautilus.

Throughout its history, the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards relied heavily on asbestos, a mineral known for its heat-resistant properties, as an insulation material. Asbestos was used in a variety of materials, including pipe insulation, wallboard, flooring, and roofing.

The Dangers of Asbestos Exposure

Asbestos exposure is extremely dangerous and can cause a variety of respiratory illnesses, including mesothelioma. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, leading to inflammation and scarring.

Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. This cancer can take up to 50 years to develop, making it difficult to diagnose until it has reached an advanced stage.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. However, some common symptoms of mesothelioma include:

Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Chest pain or discomfort
Shortness of breath
Persistent coughing
Fatigue or weakness
Fever or night sweats
Sudden weight loss
Abdominal pain or swelling

Treatment Options for Mesothelioma

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and extend the patient’s life expectancy. Some common treatment options for mesothelioma include:

Surgery

Surgery may be used to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible. This may involve removing the affected lung, along with the lining around the lung and the diaphragm.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to kill cancer cells. This treatment can be administered orally or through an IV.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. This treatment may be administered externally or internally, depending on the location and stage of the cancer.

Legal Options for Those Affected by Mesothelioma

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos at the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards, you may be entitled to compensation. There are several legal options available to those affected by mesothelioma, including lawsuits and claims against asbestos trust funds.

Asbestos Litigation

Lawsuits can be filed against the companies responsible for exposing workers to asbestos, including the manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos-containing products used at the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards.

Asbestos Trust Funds

Asbestos trust funds were established to compensate victims of asbestos exposure. These funds were created by companies that went bankrupt as a result of asbestos-related lawsuits, and they can provide financial compensation to those affected by mesothelioma.

FAQs

Q: What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

Q: What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location and stage of the cancer. Common symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, persistent coughing, and abdominal pain or swelling.

Q: What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a mineral that was commonly used in construction materials, including pipe insulation, flooring, and roofing, due to its heat-resistant properties.

Q: How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?

Mesothelioma can take up to 50 years to develop, making it difficult to diagnose until it has reached an advanced stage.

Q: Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and extend the patient’s life expectancy.

Q: What are my legal options if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos at the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards, you may be entitled to compensation. You can pursue legal action against the companies responsible for exposing you to asbestos, or you can file a claim against an asbestos trust fund.

Q: How much compensation can I receive for mesothelioma?

The amount of compensation you can receive for mesothelioma varies depending on a variety of factors, including the severity of your illness and the amount of exposure you experienced. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you determine the amount of compensation you may be entitled to.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a devastating cancer that has affected countless individuals who were exposed to asbestos at the Brooklyn Naval Shipyards. While there is no cure for mesothelioma, there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and extend the patient’s life expectancy. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos, it is important to explore all of your legal options and seek out the compensation you deserve.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. For more information about Brooklyn Naval Shipyards mesothelioma, please consult with a qualified mesothelioma attorney or medical professional.

Disclaimer

This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. The information contained in this article is not a substitute for professional legal or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Please consult with a qualified attorney or medical professional if you have any questions or concerns about Brooklyn Naval Shipyards mesothelioma or any other legal or medical matter.