Veterans exposed to asbestos during active duty and diagnosed with mesothelioma are entitled to monetary compensation from asbestos trust funds and VA claims.
Veterans Account One-Third of All People Diagnosed with Mesothelioma
Each military branch used asbestos-containing products to strengthen, insulate and fireproof military bases, combat and support vehicles and ships. When damaged or disturbed, all types of asbestos can break into tiny dust fibers invisible to the naked eye. They are often so small that once they get into the air, they remain airborne and can be easily inhaled.
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer which in over 80 percent of the cases, develops in the pleura, a thin membrane of cells that line the lungs and chest wall. The causal relationship between exposure to asbestos and mesothelioma is beyond question. Due to the prolonged period between the initial exposure to asbestos and the onset of the disease, veterans exposed to asbestos during military service, are just now exhibiting symptoms, and are dealing with their mounting medical bills.
Mesothelioma Misdiagnosis and Veterans with a History of Military Asbestos Exposure
Generally, it can take 15 to 40 years or more from the time of initial exposure until the first symptoms. In its earlier stages, pleural mesothelioma is extremely challenging to spot within the human body. Patients with pleural mesothelioma may experience some symptoms that are systemic, like muscle weakness, fever or persistent cough. Consequently, early-stage mesothelioma is commonly misdiagnosed because the symptoms are similar to other respiratory conditions or illnesses. The presence of tumor masses, as well as the damages mesothelioma causes to the lungs such as inflammation or necrosis, are factors that lead to a wrong diagnosis of different types of cancer, such as lung cancer or adenocarcinoma.
Receiving a wrong diagnosis and unsuitable treatment greatly affects your prognosis. We have a team of skilled specialists who are well equipped and experienced to provide you with an accurate diagnosis.
We Stand up for Those Who Stood Strong for Our Country
For veterans who are able to travel to Birmingham, AL we offer free screening to find out if asbestos fibers are present in their lungs. In the regrettable event that you suffer from an asbestos-related illness, we will also be able to help you recover financial compensation from both asbestos trust funds and VA claims.