navy mesothelioma

navy mesothelioma

Veterans who served in the army, navy, air force and marines before 1970 are a high risk group for mesothelioma, a type of cancer caused mainly by exposure to asbestos. It is estimated that at least 30 percent of those who suffer asbestos-induced mesothelioma are veterans. In the decade 1970 the government began regulating the use of asbestos, but before that asbestos was widely used in military buildings, equipment, submarines and ships. Veterans World War II are at especially high risk for developing asbestos-induced mesothelioma.

What is asbestos induced mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a cancer affecting the mesothelium, a thin protective lining that covers most of the organs of the body. It is believed that 90 per cent of cases of mesothelioma are caused by exposure to asbestos. The tiny fibers of asbestos are buried inside the lining, usually around the lungs and chest cavity. If the asbestos is in the mouth and swallowed, mesothelioma can also develop in the abdomen.

Asebestos is often used in insulation, building materials, and ships, and people working in construction, building demolition, shipyards or the military before government regulation of asbestos are at risk of asbestos induced mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma takes an exceptional time to develop, often not appear for 30 to 60 years after the exposure a. Because of this, many people are just discovering now that they are suffering with asbestos-induced mesothelioma, although the government now regulates the use asbestos. It is therefore essential that veterans who served before 1970 be screened regularly for mesothelioma.

Asbestos-induced mesothelioma in the Navy Veterans

Navy veterans are at greater risk than those who were involved in other branches of the armed forces because of the widespread use of asbestos in the military ships. All areas of Navy ships built before the government began regulating the use of asbestos exposure increases, including boiler rooms, dining rooms, bedrooms, halls navigation and engine rooms. The families of those who served in the Navy also had an increased risk of asbestos induced mesothelioma due to asbestos fibers carried home on the clothing of the veterans of the Navy.

If a veteran believes he or she may be at risk of asbestos-induced mesothelioma, he or she needs to be reviewed periodically. In addition, veterans rights organizations argue that the Government take measures to help veterans suffering from mesothelioma or may be at risk.

About the Author:

AsbestosNews.com is an online resource for information about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure. If you would like to find out more about mesothelioma and other asbestos-related health conditions, visit http://www.asbestosnews.com.

Article Source: ArticlesBase.comAsbestos-Induced Mesothelioma in Veterans

Mesothelioma from Navy? Army? Refinery?

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