The US Department of Veterans Affairs has now recognized that veterans may be at an increased risk for the development of mesothelioma, a cancer associated with exposure to asbestos fiber. The government has announced that during World War II, several million people employed in the U.S. shipyards. U.S. Navy Veterans were exposed to amosite and crocidolite since these varieties were used extensively in military construction.
How Veterans Have Been Exposed to Asbestos during Military Service
Veterans who served in some of the following major occupations may have been exposed to asbestos:
- Mining
- Milling
- Shipyard work
- Insulation work
- Demolition of old buildings
- Carpentry and construction
- Manufacture and servicing of friction products, such as clutch facings and brake linings
- Manufacture and installation of products, such as roofing and flooring materials, asbestos cement sheet and pipe products, and military equipment
Health Problems Associated with Exposure to Asbestos
Breathing asbestos mainly causes problems in the lungs and the membrane that surrounds the lungs, including:
The VA has indicated that exposed veterans may be eligible for governmental benefits including: Health Care Benefits, Disability Compensation Benefits, and other benefits including home loans, vocational rehabilitation and education.
Click here to read more about asbestos related disease and claims for benefits. For over 3 decades the Law Offices of Jon L. Gelman 1.973.696.7900 jon@gelmans.com have been representing injured workers and their families who have suffered asbestos related illnesses.
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