The risk of asbestos-related diseases for United States Military veterans is high. This is because asbestos was used extensively throughout every branch, including the Navy, Army, and Air Force.
Asbestos was used in the U.S. Military for many different reasons, including:
On Navy Ships
Military.com reports that “nearly every ship commissioned by the United States Navy between 1930 and about 1970 contained several tons of asbestos insulation in the engine room, along the miles of pipe aboard ship and in the walls and doors that required fireproofing.” If you spent time on a Navy ship during this time, it is likely that you came into contact with asbestos fibers in one form or another.
In Army Bases
Military.com also reports that “hundreds of military installations [have been] left with asbestos flooring, flooring tiles, ceiling tiles, wall insulation, asbestos cement in building foundations and other base structures, as well as the asbestos found in thousands of military vehicles in the form of brakes, gaskets, and insulation.” Army veterans were surrounded by asbestos products and materials in Army bases, putting them at risk for deadly diseases years or decades down the line.
Within Air Force Aircraft
The United States Air Force utilized asbestos in wiring, paneling, and other materials for Air Force planes and machinery. Not only were pilots at risk for exposure when flying within the confined spaces in aircraft, mechanics who repaired Air Force aircraft were likely to come into contact with the hazardous substance.
If you or someone you love is a United States veteran it is possible that you were exposed to asbestos, no matter which branch you served in. Given that an estimated thirty percent of mesothelioma deaths are comprised of military veterans, it is important that your doctor is on the lookout for signs and symptoms of the disease.
If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease due to exposure during your time of service, do not hesitate to reach out to an experienced asbestos or mesothelioma attorney. They can guide you through the processes for filing claims and lawsuits against those responsible for your condition.
Source: Military.com | Asbestos Network