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Pleural Mesothelioma and Air Force Veterans

While becoming its own separate branch of the military in September 1947, the Air Force was launched at a time when the use of asbestos was at its highest. As with all branches of the military, Air Force veterans may be at risk for developing pleural mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease. In the past, former military personnel have made up a large portion of mesothelioma diagnoses in the United States.

Asbestos Exposure

Affecting anywhere between 2,000 and 3,000 people in the United States each year, mesothelioma is a cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Exposure to this toxic substance typically occurs by damaging or replacing asbestos-containing materials. If disturbed, these materials can release microscopic asbestos fibers into the air where they can be inhaled. Once inhaled, the fibers usually become lodged in the lining of the lungs and have the potential to cause pleural mesothelioma tumors later in life.

Within the Air Force, exposure to asbestos may have occurred in a variety of ways. Air Force bases were likely built with many different kinds of asbestos-containing materials. Such materials may have included insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, walls and shingles. Asbestos was commonly used to insulate hot water pipes because of its resistance to high temperatures. Miscellaneous paints, cements and joining compounds containing asbestos may have also been used to construct a number of buildings on the bases.

In terms of the planes used by the Air Force, gaskets and valves incorporated in engines and other parts may have been made with asbestos. Any mechanics that may have worked on these planes likely faced the risk of being exposed to asbestos. After a person’s initial exposure to asbestos, symptoms of pleural mesothelioma may take as long as 50 years to develop. All Air Force veterans who feel they may have been exposed to asbestos should be tested for signs of asbestos exposure with a qualified physician.