Mesothelioma Exposure Army: Understanding the Risks

🚨 Attention Military Personnel 🚨

Greetings and welcome to this informative article about mesothelioma exposure within the army. As a member of the military, you may have been exposed to asbestos, a known cause of mesothelioma, during your time in service. Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. It can take up to 50 years for symptoms to appear, making early detection difficult. In this article, we will discuss the risks of mesothelioma exposure in the military, how it happens, and what you can do to protect yourself.

What is Mesothelioma?

Before we delve into the topic of mesothelioma exposure in the army, it’s important to understand what mesothelioma is. As previously mentioned, mesothelioma is a type of cancer that forms in the lining of organs, most commonly in the lungs. There are three types of mesothelioma: pleural, peritoneal, and pericardial. Pleural mesothelioma affects the lining of the lungs, peritoneal mesothelioma affects the lining of the abdomen, and pericardial mesothelioma affects the lining of the heart.

The Risks of Mesothelioma Exposure in the Military

The use of asbestos in the military was widespread from the 1930s until the late 1970s. Asbestos was used in military vehicles, buildings, and equipment due to its heat-resistant properties. This meant that military personnel were at a high risk of being exposed to asbestos through their work. In addition, asbestos was used in military barracks and housing, putting soldiers and their families at risk of secondhand exposure.

How Mesothelioma Happens in the Military

When asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, fibers become airborne and can be inhaled or ingested. These fibers can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart, causing inflammation and damage to the tissue. Over time, this can lead to cancerous cells developing and forming tumors in these areas.

📊 Mesothelioma Exposure Army Statistics 📊

Year	New Cases of Mesothelioma	Deaths from Mesothelioma
2016	3,000	2,500
2017	3,000	2,500
2018	2,500	2,000

Frequently Asked Questions about Mesothelioma Exposure in the Army

1. What are the early symptoms of mesothelioma?

Early symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, coughing, and fatigue. However, these symptoms are often mild and can be mistaken for other illnesses.

2. How long does it take for mesothelioma symptoms to appear?

It can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years for mesothelioma symptoms to appear after exposure to asbestos.

3. Can I be exposed to asbestos even if I never worked with it?

Yes, secondhand exposure is a risk. If you lived in housing or barracks that contained asbestos, you may have been exposed to the fibers.

4. How is mesothelioma diagnosed?

Mesothelioma is diagnosed through imaging tests, biopsies, and blood tests. It’s important to tell your doctor about your military service and potential exposure to asbestos.

5. Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options, such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, can help to manage symptoms and prolong life.

6. Can I file a claim for mesothelioma if I was exposed in the military?

Yes, you may be eligible to file a claim for mesothelioma if you were exposed to asbestos during your time in the military. Contact a mesothelioma lawyer to learn more.

7. What can I do to protect myself from mesothelioma?

The best way to protect yourself from mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you worked with asbestos in the past, speak with your doctor about your risk for mesothelioma and ask about screening.

Taking Action Against Mesothelioma

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, there are resources available to help. The Department of Veterans Affairs provides benefits to veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service, and mesothelioma lawyers can help you file a claim for compensation. It’s important to take action and seek help as soon as possible.

Final Thoughts on Mesothelioma Exposure Army

Mesothelioma exposure in the military is a serious issue that affects many veterans and their families. It’s important to understand the risks of asbestos exposure and take steps to protect yourself. If you have been exposed to asbestos during your military service, speak with your doctor about your risk for mesothelioma and take action to protect your health.

Disclaimer:

The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a licensed physician for medical advice and treatment options.