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Pleural Mesothelioma and Marine Corps Veterans

Marine veterans may be at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease such as pleural mesothelioma due to the military’s high use of asbestos during the 1940s through the 1970s. Sleeping quarters on bases were areas where Marines may have been exposed to asbestos because asbestos-laden materials were likely used to build such structures. The slightest disturbance to asbestos-containing materials is enough for asbestos fibers to become airborne where they can be inhaled.

Exposure to Asbestos

Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of pleural mesothelioma, a rare cancer with a severe latency period. Veterans who were exposed decades ago may just now begin to feel symptoms related to their exposure. Unfortunately for many veterans who develop this condition, the severe latency period often causes a late diagnosis. Patients diagnosed with an advanced stage of mesothelioma typically have limited treatment options and a poor life expectancy.

Marines may have also experienced asbestos exposure through their involvement with the Navy. Ships and shipyards were prime locations for asbestos-containing materials as vessels were required to be built with fireproof products. Asbestos, a naturally heat-resistant mineral, provided this need for the Navy. On many occasions, Marines and Navy personnel worked side by side on ships during missions. Marines often used naval vessels for transportation during conflicts and these voyages may have provided an opportunity for Marines to be exposed to asbestos.

Depending on the individual, a one-time exposure to asbestos may be enough for someone to develop pleural mesothelioma later in life. The latency period for this cancer ranges between 20 and 50 years and anyone who may have been exposed should seek routine medical checkups with a qualified physician. Symptoms may resemble other, less serious conditions and doctors may experience difficulty while trying to diagnose the cancer.

PleuralMesothelioma.com provides complimentary assistance to veterans filing a VA claim. Our Veterans Assistance Department has much experience in filing VA claims and can help any veteran with pleural mesothelioma acquire benefits. To talk with a patient advocate in our Veterans Assistance Department please call 1-800-615-2270 or simply fill out the form on this page to be contacted.