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Mesothelioma & Veterans
Table Of Contents
About 30% of annual mesothelioma claims come from veterans. You might have a high risk of asbestos exposure if you served in military occupations from 1930 to 1980. Every branch of the military relied on asbestos. VA benefits are available to veterans with mesothelioma.
Written by Aaron Munz | Veterans Review By Nathan Pinner | Edited By Walter Pacheco | Last Update: July 24, 2024
Written by Aaron Munz | Veterans Review By Nathan Pinner | Edited By Walter Pacheco | Last Update: July 24, 2024
Why Veterans Get Mesothelioma
Veterans are at a higher risk for mesothelioma because they experienced significant rates of asbestos exposure. Between the 1930s and 1980s, the military’s use of asbestos was widespread. Because of its heat-resistant properties, asbestos was used in everything from insulation to shipbuilding.
Asbestos is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Microscopic fibers in the air can become trapped in the body, causing irritation, scarring and cellular changes that can lead to cancer. The prognosis for mesothelioma is poor, however, when caught early and with treatment advances, more people are surviving longer.
I’m an ex-Marine, and I’ve already beaten the odds. I was given six months to a year to live six years ago. It’s important that people understand there is hope.
Those in the Navy traditionally have had higher rates of mesothelioma because of the asbestos exposure risk on ships, in submarines and at shipyards. However, veterans in all branches of the military are at risk.
Those in military service today may face asbestos exposure from legacy asbestos in older machinery, facilities and military housing. Soldiers in combat may also be at risk when buildings containing asbestos are damaged. Additionally, family members of active duty service members and veterans may encounter asbestos secondhand when dust is on uniforms, boots or other gear.
Exposed to Asbestos in the Military?
Learn how to access benefits available to veterans affected by an asbestos-related illness.
Get Help NowTypes of Veterans Benefits for Mesothelioma
As a veteran with mesothelioma, you may be eligible for 100% disability compensation. This compensation is available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. You may also qualify for health care services and monthly payments.
If you are the surviving spouse of a veteran, you may also be eligible for benefits. One example is dependency and indemnity compensation, or DIC. This benefit is available if your spouse dies due to a disability sustained during service.
VA Health Care
VA healthcare enrollment depends on the veteran’s income level. You will also need confirmation of an illness connected to your service. The VA considers service-connected mesothelioma if 50% of the asbestos exposure happened on active duty.
Disability Compensation
Disability compensation is a monthly benefit based on a veteran’s level of disability. The VA considers asbestos-related cancers such as mesothelioma 100% disabling. The amount of benefits may change depending on the number of dependents.
Single veterans with mesothelioma qualify for a monthly payment of $3,877. Married veterans receive a monthly amount of $4,098. These rates are based on the Veterans Compensation Benefits Rate Tables, which show different values for various situations.
Special Monthly Compensation
Disabled veterans who rely on another person qualify for special monthly compensation. Payments often range from $4,651 to more than $6,382 a month. This benefit is also available to veterans’ spouses and parents.
Rates for special monthly compensation depend on several factors. One example is the number of dependents.
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation
Dependency and indemnity compensation is a monthly benefit. Surviving spouses of a veteran who died from service-related disabilities are eligible. They can receive up to $1,612.75 every month.
Under certain circumstances, an extra monthly payment is available. Spouses of deceased veterans must file a claim to receive this benefit.
VA Burial Benefits
The VA burial allowance for a death connected to military service is $2,000. A person seeking this benefit must prove they paid for a veteran’s burial or funeral. They also must show that the veteran died of a service-connected disability. Such disabilities include mesothelioma linked to military asbestos exposure. It’s vital to know the requirements for filing a claim.
In order for a veteran to file a service-connected disability claim, a veteran must first prove they have a VA-recognized asbestos-related condition such as mesothelioma.
Who Is Eligible for Veterans Benefits?
To be eligible for VA benefits, start the claim process immediately after diagnosis. You’ll need documentation of your asbestos exposure and diagnosis to file a VA claim.
Claim processing takes time. It may be easier for family members to get survivor benefits first with a disability claim. Consider the requirements for filing a VA claim.
Requirements for VA Claims
- Discharge Status: Discharges from active military service under conditions other than dishonorable.
- Exposure Summary: Includes history of military job ratings, locations, etc.
- Medical Documentation: A doctor must provide medical records showing that asbestos exposure caused mesothelioma.
- Medical Evidence: Medical proof that active military duty led to asbestos exposure. The exposure must lead to mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease.
Mesothelioma qualifies for the highest rate of VA compensation with a 100% disability rating for active cases and asbestos-related lung cancer because of their severity. Mesothelioma is a serious disease that demands immediate medical attention once diagnosed.
Once you’ve met the requirements, seek a VA-accredited claims agent. They can lead you through the process and ensure you receive compensation. A VA-accredited claims agent makes the process easier from start to finish.
Asbestos-Related Diseases That Qualify for VA Benefits
Asbestos exposure is a significant risk factor for several diseases. The following are asbestos-related diseases that qualify for VA benefits.
VA-Eligible Asbestos Diseases
- Asbestosis
- Bronchus cancer
- Gastrointestinal cancer
- Interstitial pulmonary fibrosis
- Larynx cancer
- Lung cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Pharynx cancer
- Pleural effusion
- Pleural plaques
- Urogenital cancers (except prostate)
Veterans with mesothelioma should seek help to receive the benefits they deserve. Contact a VA-accredited claims agent to start the claim process.
Key Facts About Mesothelioma & Veterans
- Every branch of the military used asbestos. Navy veterans were among the most at risk of exposure.
- Veterans may file VA claims for compensation and access VA health care for mesothelioma.
- Many veterans also receive compensation through legal settlements.
- A VA-accredited claims agent can help answer questions about VA disability.
Treatment for Veterans With Mesothelioma
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for veterans with mesothelioma. Symptoms and signs of mesothelioma can take decades to show up after service. Discuss your history or risk of exposure to asbestos in the military with your doctor who may recommend regular screenings.
If you’re diagnosed with mesothelioma, finding a specialist is critical. The VA has access to some of the top mesothelioma specialists in the United States who can provide the best treatment options for veterans.
I would tell anyone diagnosed to look beyond where they normally would for treatment. There are experts out there who can treat this disease, but you have to find them.
Odell R., U.S Navy veteran
The most common treatments for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The VA offers these treatments to eligible veterans. They can also assist with travel arrangements and cover the cost of airfare and housing.
Veterans Choice Program allows eligible veterans to receive care outside the VA. A veteran living more than 40 miles from the nearest VA facility may be eligible. The same is true if you can’t get an appointment within 30 days. Veterans should talk to their VA doctor about their options.
Free Mesothelioma Guide for Veterans
Learn about mesothelioma, asbestos exposure in the military, top treatment options and more.
Get Yours NowWhat to Do Next
It’s essential to take action if you have any signs or symptoms of mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. Early action offers you the most treatment options and leads to the best outcomes.
Next Steps
- Determine if you had exposure to asbestos in the military.
- If you’re experiencing symptoms, tell your doctor and find a specialist. Patient Advocates can locate one in your area.
- If mesothelioma is a possibility, get an official diagnosis.
- Find specialized treatment. The Mesothelioma Center can provide options available through the VA or non-VA options.
- If you’re a caregiver to a veteran with mesothelioma, learn more about how to support them. Caregiver resources are available.
- Explore VA benefits and legal options for you and your family. A VA-accredited claims agent can answer your questions.
- Think about starting palliative care alongside your treatment. If you have a late-stage diagnosis, consider hospice care.
The Mesothelioma Center helps veterans and their families through every step of the process. Our resources can help you navigate the complexities of diagnosis, treatment and benefits. Since 2018, our Veterans Department has helped thousands of vets and their loved ones file a VA claim.
If you have an asbestos-related illness from the military, know you are not alone. Many veterans faced exposure and were not informed, but there is hope. There are resources and support available to help you through this difficult time.
15,245
Number of U.S. veterans The Mesothelioma Center helped since May 2017.
Commonly Asked Questions From Veterans With Mesothelioma
- Is mesothelioma a VA disability?
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If the majority of a veteran’s lifetime exposure to asbestos occurred on active duty, the VA can approve a mesothelioma diagnosis as a service-connected disability for benefits.
Answered By: Aaron Munz, director of Veterans Department & Former U.S. Army Captain
- What is the VA Disability Rating for mesothelioma?
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If the cancer is determined to be service-connected, the disability rating will be 100% as long as the cancer is active and for six months following the final treatment.
Answered By: Aaron Munz, director of Veterans Department & Former U.S. Army Captain
- Are there any resources specifically for veterans with mesothelioma?
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Veterans may qualify for VA Disability Compensation and VA health care if military service caused or worsened their health conditions. Veterans’ families can stay at Fisher House homes while a veteran is in the hospital receiving medical care.
Answered By: Aaron Munz, director of Veterans Department & Former U.S. Army Captain
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