Introduction: What Is Mesothelioma?
Before delving into the specifics of mesothelioma at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, it’s important to understand what this disease is. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in many industries until its link to mesothelioma was discovered. Unfortunately, the latency period for mesothelioma can be decades, meaning that symptoms don’t typically appear until many years after exposure.
Despite the dangers associated with asbestos, it was widely used in industries like shipbuilding and construction for much of the 20th century. Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, located in Bremerton, Washington, was no exception.
Puget Sound Naval Shipyard was founded in 1891 and has played a significant role in American naval history. Over the years, the shipyard has seen a great deal of asbestos use, particularly during the mid-20th century. Asbestos was used in a variety of applications at the shipyard, including insulation, gaskets, and brakes.
While the dangers of asbestos were not widely known at the time, it is now clear that exposure to the mineral can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma.
The legacy of asbestos use at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard can be seen in the high rates of mesothelioma among former workers at the facility. In fact, the Department of Veterans Affairs has recognized the shipyard as one of the most hazardous work environments in terms of asbestos exposure.
Unfortunately, many workers at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard were not informed of the risks associated with asbestos exposure. As a result, they were not given adequate protective gear or training to minimize their exposure to the mineral.
Even though asbestos use has been significantly reduced in recent years, mesothelioma remains a significant risk for many workers who were exposed to the mineral in the past. In particular, former workers at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard may still be at risk for developing mesothelioma due to their past exposure.
It is important for anyone who worked at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard or other facilities where asbestos was used to be aware of the risks associated with mesothelioma. Early detection is key when it comes to mesothelioma, so anyone who may have been exposed to asbestos should speak with their doctor about screening for the disease.
What to Do If You Have Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma
Being diagnosed with mesothelioma can be a devastating experience, but it’s important to remember that you are not alone. There are a number of resources available to help you fight mesothelioma and get the care you need.
One of the most important things you can do after a mesothelioma diagnosis is to seek out a mesothelioma specialist. These doctors have extensive experience treating mesothelioma patients and can help you explore your treatment options.
In addition to seeking out medical care, it’s important to consider your legal options if you were exposed to asbestos at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard or another facility. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you understand your rights and seek compensation for your medical expenses and other damages associated with the disease.
If you or a loved one worked at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to understand the specifics of your case. Here are some of the key facts about mesothelioma at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard:
| Location | Bremerton, Washington |
| Years of Operation | 1891 – Present |
| Number of Workers | Up to 14,000 during World War II |
| Type of Work | Shipbuilding and repair |
| Asbestos Use | Widely used for insulation, gaskets, brakes, and other applications |
| Mesothelioma Risk | Significantly higher than average for former workers |
Asbestos was commonly used in the shipbuilding industry during the mid-20th century because of its excellent insulating properties. At Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, asbestos was used for a variety of purposes, including insulation for pipes and boilers, gaskets for engine parts, and brakes for vehicles used around the facility.
While asbestos was highly valued for its insulating properties, it was also highly dangerous. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, which can eventually lead to mesothelioma.
Unfortunately, many workers at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard were not informed of the risks associated with asbestos exposure or given adequate protective gear to minimize their exposure. As a result, many former workers at the facility have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Anyone who worked at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard before the dangers of asbestos were widely known may be at risk for mesothelioma. However, there are certain groups of workers who may be at an especially high risk:
- Insulators: Workers who installed or removed insulation containing asbestos are at a high risk for mesothelioma.
- Boiler workers: Those who worked on or around boilers that contained asbestos insulation are also at a high risk.
- Shipfitters and welders: These workers may have been exposed to asbestos through the use of asbestos-containing materials in the shipbuilding process.
How to Get Help After a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after working at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, it’s important to know that there are resources available to help you get the care you need. Some key steps to take include:
- Seeking out a mesothelioma specialist
- Getting in touch with a mesothelioma support group
- Working with an experienced mesothelioma attorney to explore your legal options
1. What Is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that was commonly used in many industries until its link to mesothelioma was discovered.
2. How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is typically diagnosed through a combination of imaging tests, biopsies, and other diagnostic procedures. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, it’s important to speak with your doctor about screening for mesothelioma.
3. What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location of the tumor, but common symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal swelling, and unexplained weight loss.
4. Can Mesothelioma Be Treated?
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can help manage symptoms and extend survival.
5. What Are My Legal Options If I Have Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after working at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, you may be eligible for compensation through a lawsuit or settlement. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you understand your legal options.
6. How Can I Find a Mesothelioma Specialist?
There are a number of resources available to help you find a mesothelioma specialist, including the National Cancer Institute and the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a specialist in your area.
7. What Should I Do If I Have Been Diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek out medical care as soon as possible. In addition, you may want to explore your legal options with the help of an experienced mesothelioma attorney.
8. How Long Does It Take for Mesothelioma to Develop?
The latency period for mesothelioma can be decades, meaning that symptoms may not appear until many years after exposure to asbestos. In some cases, symptoms may not appear until 30 or 40 years after exposure.
9. What Are the Long-Term Prognoses for Mesothelioma?
The long-term prognosis for mesothelioma can vary depending on a number of factors, including the location and stage of the tumor. However, mesothelioma is typically a very aggressive cancer and survival rates are generally low.
10. Can I Still Get Mesothelioma If I Was Only Exposed to Asbestos Briefly?
Yes, even brief exposure to asbestos can increase your risk of developing mesothelioma. In fact, some people have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after only limited exposure to asbestos.
11. How Is Mesothelioma Managed?
Mesothelioma is typically managed through a combination of treatments, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In addition, palliative care may be used to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
12. Can My Family Members Develop Mesothelioma If They Were Exposed to Asbestos Secondhand?
Yes, it is possible for family members of someone who was exposed to asbestos to develop mesothelioma secondhand. This is known as secondary asbestos exposure and can occur when asbestos fibers are brought home on clothing or other materials.
13. How Can I Reduce My Risk of Mesothelioma?
The best way to reduce your risk of mesothelioma is to avoid exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is still used, be sure to take proper precautions to minimize your exposure to the mineral.
Conclusion: Take Action Today
While there is no cure for mesothelioma, there are resources available to help those who have been diagnosed with the disease. If you or a loved one worked at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek out medical care and explore your legal options.
Remember, early detection is key when it comes to mesothelioma, so be sure to speak with your doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos in the past. Together, we can work to raise awareness about mesothelioma and protect future generations from the dangers of asbestos exposure.
Take Action Today: Contact an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma after working at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard or another facility where asbestos was used, it’s important to understand your legal options. An experienced mesothelioma attorney can help you explore your options and seek compensation for your medical expenses and other damages associated with the disease.
Disclaimer
The information in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Furthermore, the content of this article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Consult with an experienced mesothelioma attorney to discuss your legal options.
