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Mesothelioma in US States

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8 FAQs on Mesothelioma in Veterans – The real reasons and causes

Catherine A. Murphy

Studies have shown that of all the individuals in the US suffering with mesothelioma, 30% are of a military background. In addition, with more examination, many of these individuals were mainly serving in the navy, air force or their support services at some time or another. Many were ship builders, sailors, contractors and airplane pilots.

The misconceptions of the disease still exist leaving veterans with many questions about the disease, how it is treated and what legal recourse can be taken to get compensation. Here are some of the main concerns of veterans with respect to mesothelioma.

1. What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancerous disease that forms in patients as a result of their exposure to asbestos. During their time of exposure, the asbestos particles penetrate deep in to the lungs and lodge there. Over time, various chemical reactions take place between the asbestos and body defenses ending up with the cells affected by the asbestos becoming hard and cancerous.

2. What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a category of naturally occurring minerals that are known for their strength, flexibility and heat resistance qualities. These minerals are then woven into fabric that is then used in manufacturing.

3. Didn’t the military know about these effects?

Asbestos was viewed as a revolutionary material during the 1940s. It provided god insulation, was light, cheap and applicable in many environments. As a result of demand, much stress was not placed on side effects of exposure to the material. This was further compounded by later discovered facts that the side effects were slow in coming.

4. What are the symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The early signs of mesothelioma are similar to those of other respiratory diseases. As a result, veterans will experience prolonged coughing, chest pains, tightness of the chest and shortness of breath.

5. What are the treatments available for mesothelioma?

The treatment of mesothelioma depends on how far the disease has progressed. If discovered in the early stages, doctors may prescribe medication or radiation treatment. However, if discovered in the late stages, there is little that can be done.

6. What type of veterans are most at risk of Mesothelioma?

All veterans who served from the 1940s to 1970 are at risk of developing mesothelioma. However, those who worked in shipyards, pilots and navy are at a higher risk. This is because asbestos were used extensively in the building of ships and airplanes during that time. So operating in these close quarters significantly increases your exposure to the asbestos particles.

7. What legal actions can veterans with mesothelioma take?

Veterans are not allowed to file lawsuits against the military for asbestos exposure. Lawsuits must be directed towards the manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos laden products.

8. How long will my lawsuit take?

The time line for mesothelioma lawsuits will vary from one individual to another. However, on average, cases take from six to twelve months to resolve.

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