Mesothelioma & Marine Corps Veterans

Marines, along with the other branches of the military, were at risk of asbestos exposure because of the extensive use of asbestos in all types of products. Asbestos was used in insulation, pipes and wiring in all types of construction, from industrial to residential. At one time, the military had a mandate in place calling for the increased use of asbestos containing products in their projects. The reason for the popularity of asbestos was simple. As a naturally occurring mineral, it was widely available, which made the price competitive. It was heat proof and fire resistant, properties that made it very attractive when surrounding engine rooms or boilers.

While all branches of the military used asbestos extensively, none used as much of it in as many materials as the Navy. They used asbestos all through the ships that took to the water from the early 1940s to the late 1970s. The asbestos containing material was used to insulate the boilers, provide a heat shield between the residential areas and the working areas of the ship, and were woven into the ropes that were plentiful aboard the Navy vessels.

How does this affect Marines? Marine units often worked hand in hand with Navy crews. They used Navy aircraft carriers for their base from which to fly fighter-bombers on ship to shore missions. This meant living on these ships for the duration of the missions. The close working relationship between the Marines and the Navy means that Marine veterans may be at just as high of a risk for asbestos-related illness as those veterans who served in the Navy. Even those Marines that never set foot on a Navy vessel are at risk of asbestos exposure. Asbestos was widely used in the cement pipes, ceiling tiles and insulation that made up the barracks where the Marines spent their time.

What are the Dangers of Asbestos Exposure?

Asbestos exposure can lead to a variety of health problems. Because asbestos is a known carcinogen, exposure to it may increase the risk of all types of cancers. In smokers, the chances of developing lung cancer are greatly increased if they have also been exposed to asbestos. Asbestos exposure can also lead to mesothelioma, a cancer that develops in the protective covering of the body's organs. Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose, and by the time a diagnosis is made the tumors have often spread throughout the body. Mesothelioma does not respond well to treatment, and the average length of survival is approximately one year after diagnosis.

Asbestosis is a chronic and progressive lung disease that develops in those that have been exposed to asbestos. The disease causes shortness of breath that eventually leaves the patient unable to perform the most basic activities. Although the main symptom of asbestosis, shortness of breath, can be relieved somewhat by prescription oxygen, there is no cure and asbestosis leads to respiratory failure.

Asbestos exposure occurs when the materials that contain asbestos become worn. When this wear occurs, asbestos fibers are released into the air, where they are easily ingested or inhaled. The asbestos fibers remain in the body for years, until decades later when the veteran develops health problems associated with the exposure.

How the Military Handles Claims of Asbestos Exposure

Various asbestos manufacturers, who supplied the asbestos-contaminated materials to the government, are held responsible for the injuries incurred by veterans, not the government. Many workers in the private sector have recovered money to help cover health care costs and compensation, and veterans have this same option. An Army veteran can also appeal for coverage or benefits through the Veterans Administration.

Once challenge that army veterans face when attempting to collect veterans benefits is the burden of proof that asbestos exposure occurred only while in service. To prove that they suffered from asbestos exposure during their time in the military, they must effectively prove they were not exposed to asbestos at any other time. Consulting with an experienced attorney that has handled asbestos claims for other members of the military can provide you with the guidance that you need before attempting to secure VA benefits.

Asbestos.com offers free assistance with filing a VA claim and can make the process much easier. Our Veterans Assistance Department offers extensive experience in filing VA claims and can help any veteran coping with mesothelioma receive benefits from the VA system. For more information or free assistance regarding VA benefits, programs and eligibility, please call 800-615-2270 or contact our Veterans Assistance Department by filling out this form.