Mesothelioma in Veterans

Mesothelioma is a fatal type of cancer that can ultimately lead to death after being diagnosed. The onset of mesothelioma is usually because of occupational asbestos exposure. Hundreds of thousands of veterans were exposed to asbestos in their jobsites such as shipyards and Navy during military service and have developed mesothelioma cancer. It was the major cause of asbestos related diseases such as mesothelioma in veterans.

Who are at Risk of Mesothelioma?
Retired military servicemen and women, especially those who worked in the Navy and shipyards may have been frequently exposed to asbestos during the construction of buildings. In addition, those who performed maintenance on vehicles are also at great risk of mesothelioma. Military servicemen who were exposed to asbestos might brought the fibers home on their skin and clothing. This might have transferred the fibers to other family members, developing risk for mesothelioma. Moreover, those who worked with asbestos-laden materials are also at high risks for developing asbestos related disorders including asbestosis, mesothelioma cancer, and lung cancer.

Asbestos Exposure in Veterans
Formerly, asbestos was highly used for its fire proof and heat resistant capabilities as the health risks associated with asbestos were not known. If truth be told, it was considered as a valuable mineral fiber and was commercially used before 1970s. Veterans who have worked in asbestos jobsites between 1940 and 1970 have a risk of developing asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma. Moreover, Navy personnel and workers employed in shipyards from the 1930s till 1970s are at greater risk of developing mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma Symptoms in Veterans
Veterans suffering from mesothelioma usually have the following common symptoms:

• Shortness of breath
• Frequent coughing
• Fluid in the lungs
• Sudden weight loss

Although it is quite difficult to diagnose as mesothelioma symptoms are closely mimic with other respiratory illnesses and it's usually misdiagnosed with pneumonia or influenza. Veterans account for an estimated 30% of all mesothelioma patients.

Mesothelioma Treatment Options
Since, symptoms of mesothelioma do not usually appear until several decades. When asbestos fibers enter the body they become lodged in the lining of the lungs, causing lesion which can lead to the development of the cancer. Mesothelioma treatment for asbestos related diseases depends upon the stages and type of the disease.

Mesothelioma in Veterans - Care, Compensation and Treatment
Anyone who was a US military veteran that has developed mesothelioma cancer is eligible for assistance, compensation and treatment from asbestos manufacturers or any companies that are responsible for your asbestos exposure. Veterans can contact mesothelioma attorney that help them file a claim against the company responsible for their asbestos-related illness.

Author Bio:
Rachel Smith is a web enthusiast and professional webmaster. She loves to write about mesothelioma research findings that help people and their loved ones suffering from mesothelioma.