The Burden of Mesothelioma on Veterans and Blue-Collar Workers

Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer caused by asbestos exposure. It has greatly affected two groups: veterans and blue-collar workers.

People who worked in high-risk jobs for society often face higher rates of mesothelioma. This is due to the common use of asbestos in shipyards, factories, military sites, and other industrial places.

For veterans and blue-collar workers, mesothelioma is not just a health crisis. It is a burden that affects every part of their lives. This situation highlights the long-term risks they face while serving their country and communities.

Why Mesothelioma Hits Veterans Hard

Veterans are a large group of mesothelioma patients. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) estimates that one-third of all mesothelioma cases involve military personnel. This unfortunate statistic stems from extensive asbestos use in military installations, particularly in the U.S. Navy.

During World War II and into the 1970s, the Navy used a lot of asbestos in ships. They used it for construction, insulation, and equipment because it resists heat and lasts a long time.

Shipyards and naval ships posed high exposure risks, especially in confined areas where asbestos dust could accumulate and linger. While veterans worked, trained, or deployed on ships, they often breathed in asbestos fibers without realizing it.

Since mesothelioma has a latency period of 20-50 years, many veterans were diagnosed decades after their exposure. By that time, the disease is usually advanced. There are few treatment options available. This makes it harder for veterans and their families.

Blue-Collar Workers: The Risk in Industrial Jobs

Similarly, blue-collar workers have faced widespread asbestos exposure in industries such as construction, manufacturing, and mining. These jobs often involved working with asbestos-containing materials like insulation, drywall, cement, pipes, and brake linings.

Many workers did not know the risks of asbestos. Often, they lacked proper protective equipment.

As a result, they inhaled or swallowed asbestos fibers. These fibers can get stuck in the lungs or abdominal lining. Later, this can lead to mesothelioma or other diseases related to asbestos.

For blue-collar workers, the burden of mesothelioma also includes the financial and emotional stress that accompanies the disease. Many of these workers relied on their physical labor to provide for their families. A diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating for them, as it often leaves them unable to work, grappling with high medical bills, and facing a shortened life expectancy.

Many people feel a strong sense of betrayal. They believe companies knew about the risks of asbestos. However, these companies did not take enough steps to protect their workers.

Financial and Emotional Impact on Families

Beyond the individual patients, mesothelioma places a heavy burden on families. Both veterans and blue-collar workers often come from family-oriented backgrounds and are key providers in their households. When doctors diagnose mesothelioma, families may struggle financially because of lost income and the high costs of treatment. Caregiving responsibilities typically fall on family members, creating physical and emotional strain.

The aggressive nature of mesothelioma means families often see the disease progress quickly. This leaves them little time to understand the diagnosis or plan for the future.

With limited treatment options, families may feel powerless to help their loved ones. This strain can have a lasting emotional impact on spouses, children, and even grandchildren.

Fighting for Justice and Accountability

Veterans and blue-collar workers have historically contributed to society in invaluable ways, from building the infrastructure we rely on to protecting national interests. However, these same people now suffer from a preventable disease. In many cases, this disease is caused by asbestos exposure that could have been reduced or avoided. Legal action is one avenue through which mesothelioma patients and their families can seek justice and accountability.

The VA provides disability compensation for veterans with mesothelioma related to their military service. However, the claims process can be difficult to navigate. Some veterans have trouble getting full support.

This is because some VA claims are complex. They need proof of asbestos exposure from many years ago. Many rely on legal professionals who specialize in asbestos cases to help them secure their deserved compensation.

Blue-collar workers affected by asbestos exposure can seek compensation from asbestos trust funds. Companies that made or used asbestos products set up these funds. These funds help provide financial relief, covering medical expenses and lost wages.

Legal help is important for blue-collar workers and their families. It helps them navigate these processes. This support ensures that companies take responsibility for asbestos exposure and its harmful effects.

Looking Toward Prevention and Support

The effects of asbestos use will affect veterans and blue-collar workers for many years. Mesothelioma takes a long time to develop, so new cases will likely come from past exposures. However, there is hope in the form of increased awareness, stricter regulations, and emerging technologies for asbestos detection.

Today, many industrial workplaces have stricter safety rules. The VA is also paying more attention to diseases related to asbestos. These steps aim to protect workers from asbestos exposure now and in the future. They also show the need for ongoing watchfulness and preventive actions.

How Brayton Purcell LLP Can Help

For more than 40 years, Brayton Purcell LLP has helped people harmed by asbestos. We work hard to get justice and compensation for mesothelioma patients and their families.

We know the special challenges that veterans and blue-collar workers face. We are committed to holding those responsible accountable. Our team is here to guide you through the complexities of asbestos litigation, VA claims, and asbestos trust funds, ensuring you and your loved ones receive the support you deserve.

If you or someone you care about has mesothelioma from asbestos exposure, reach out to Brayton Purcell LLP today. Our caring team is here to help you during this challenging time. We will help you understand your rights. We will also help you seek the compensation and justice you deserve.