Mesothelioma VA Navy: What You Need to Know

The United States Navy has long been considered a symbol of American power and strength, but the reality is that many Navy veterans have been exposed to a dangerous substance called asbestos during their service. Asbestos is a mineral fiber that was widely used in the Navy from the 1930s until the 1970s due to its heat-resistant properties. Unfortunately, asbestos exposure can cause a type of cancer called mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive disease that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.

This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide to mesothelioma VA Navy, from its causes and symptoms to the available treatments and financial assistance options for Navy veterans affected by this disease. If you or a loved one served in the Navy and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, this article is for you.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelial cells, which are found in the lining of several internal organs, such as the lungs, abdomen, or heart. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the lungs and accounts for about 80% of cases. Other types of mesothelioma include peritoneal mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the abdomen, and pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the lining of the heart.

What Causes Mesothelioma?

The main cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction and industrial settings until the 1980s. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the mesothelial cells and cause inflammation and scarring, which can eventually lead to cancer.

What Are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the type and stage of the cancer, but common signs include:

Symptom Description
Shortness of breath Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity
Chest pain Pain in the chest, back, or shoulder that worsens over time
Persistent cough A cough that doesn’t go away, sometimes accompanied by blood
Fatigue Feeling tired or weak all the time
Fever An unexplained fever that lasts for weeks
Sweating Excessive sweating, especially at night
Weight loss Unintended weight loss due to loss of appetite or other factors

How Is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

Diagnosing mesothelioma can be challenging because its symptoms are often similar to those of other respiratory illnesses, such as pneumonia or lung cancer. However, if you have a history of asbestos exposure and experience any of the symptoms mentioned above, you should see a doctor who specializes in mesothelioma. The diagnostic process usually involves:

1. Medical history and physical examination: the doctor will ask you about your symptoms and medical history, as well as perform a physical exam to check for signs of mesothelioma, such as fluid buildup in the chest or abdomen.

2. Imaging tests: the doctor may order X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs to get a better look at the affected area and determine the size and location of any tumors.

3. Biopsy: the doctor may take a small tissue sample from the affected area using a needle or during surgery to analyze it under a microscope and confirm the presence of mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma VA Navy

Why are Navy Veterans at Risk of Mesothelioma?

As mentioned earlier, asbestos was widely used in the Navy during the 20th century due to its heat-resistant properties and low cost. Almost every Navy ship built before the 1980s contained asbestos in some form, whether it was in insulation, gaskets, valves, or pipes. As a result, Navy veterans who served during this time period are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma than the general population.

How Many Navy Veterans Have Been Affected by Mesothelioma?

According to estimates, about one-third of all mesothelioma cases in the United States are attributed to military veterans, with a significant proportion being Navy veterans. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has recognized mesothelioma as a service-connected disability due to the high prevalence of asbestos exposure in the military.

What Are the Available Benefits for Navy Veterans with Mesothelioma?

Navy veterans with mesothelioma may be eligible for various VA benefits, including:

1. Disability compensation: Navy veterans who can provide evidence of their asbestos exposure during service may be eligible for disability compensation to cover medical and living expenses.

2. VA healthcare: Navy veterans with mesothelioma are eligible for VA healthcare, which includes diagnostic tests, treatment, and counseling services.

3. Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC): surviving spouses and dependents of Navy veterans who died of mesothelioma may be eligible for DIC benefits from the VA.

4. VA burials: Navy veterans with mesothelioma who pass away may be eligible for a burial with military honors at a national cemetery.

What Are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?

There is no cure for mesothelioma, but there are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms and prolong the patient’s life:

1. Surgery: mesothelioma surgery aims to remove as much of the tumor as possible and may involve removing part or all of the affected organ.

2. Radiation therapy: radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

3. Chemotherapy: chemotherapy involves using drugs to kill cancer cells and may be administered orally or intravenously.

4. Immunotherapy: immunotherapy uses the patient’s immune system to fight cancer cells and may involve the use of drugs or vaccines.

Are There Any Clinical Trials for Mesothelioma?

Yes, there are several clinical trials currently underway to test new treatments and therapies for mesothelioma. Clinical trials are research studies that involve human participants and aim to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of new drugs or procedures. Participation in a clinical trial may be an option for Navy veterans with mesothelioma who have exhausted all other treatment options.

What Should I Do If I Have Mesothelioma?

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the first thing you should do is seek medical treatment from a qualified mesothelioma specialist. You should also consider contacting a mesothelioma lawyer to explore your legal options and seek financial compensation for your damages. Additionally, you may be eligible for VA benefits as a Navy veteran with mesothelioma.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma VA Navy is a serious issue that affects many Navy veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service. However, there are various resources available to help these veterans manage their condition and seek financial compensation for their damages. If you or a loved one is a Navy veteran with mesothelioma, we encourage you to seek medical treatment and explore your legal and financial options.

Disclaimer

The information in this article is intended for educational and informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or medical advice. The use of this article does not create an attorney-client or doctor-patient relationship between the reader and the author or publisher.