Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that were widely used in construction and manufacturing in the United States from the 1930s to the 1970s. Asbestos fibers are very strong and heat-resistant, which made them useful in a wide variety of applications, including insulation, fireproofing, and brake pads.
Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos fibers can cause a number of serious health problems, including mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart), lung cancer, and asbestosis (a chronic lung condition). Asbestos exposure can occur when asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled or swallowed.
Military veterans may have an increased risk of asbestos exposure because asbestos was commonly used in military applications, including shipbuilding, aircraft manufacturing, and military housing construction. In addition, many veterans who served in the Navy were exposed to asbestos because of the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials in ships.
As a result of this exposure, many military veterans have developed mesothelioma, lung cancer, and other asbestos-related diseases. In fact, the Department of Veterans Affairs recognizes mesothelioma as a service-connected disability, which means that veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their military service may be eligible for VA benefits. If you are a veteran who was exposed to asbestos, it’s important to speak with your doctor about your risk of developing an asbestos-related disease and to explore your options for VA benefits.
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