The link between service-connected veterans and mesothelioma is well-documented and deeply concerning. Veterans are at a significantly higher risk of developing mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos during their military service. Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, was widely used for its heat resistance and durability, especially in construction materials, ships, aircraft, and military vehicles. Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer most commonly affecting the lungs (pleural mesothelioma), but it can also affect the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma) or the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).
During the 20th century, asbestos was used extensively by the military in various capacities: Asbestos was used for insulation in ships' engines, boilers, pipes, and other areas. Veterans who served in the U.S. Navy, Merchant Marine, or Coast Guard are particularly at risk, as they worked in confined spaces where asbestos exposure was often inevitable. Asbestos was used in brake linings, gaskets, and fireproofing materials in military aircraft. Air Force personnel working with or around aircraft were also at significant risk. Both the Army and Marine Corps used asbestos in building materials, including insulation in barracks, vehicle maintenance shops, and other military facilities. Even in field operations, soldiers might have been exposed when working with equipment that contained asbestos. Veterans working in military construction, maintenance, and repair services were often exposed to asbestos while building or repairing military structures, installing insulation, and handling equipment.
Why veterans are at higher risk; asbestos was used extensively in military products until the 1970s. Military personnel, especially those in the Navy, had prolonged exposure to asbestos-containing materials throughout their service. Veterans may have been exposed to asbestos over a prolonged period in confined and poorly ventilated spaces, particularly aboard ships, submarines, and aircraft. The nature of military service meant that some veterans could be exposed to asbestos daily for years. Mesothelioma typically has a long latency period, with symptoms often not appearing until 20 to 50 years after exposure. This delay means that veterans exposed to asbestos in the 1940s, 50s, and 60s may only now be experiencing the disease.
Asbestos was used heavily in naval ships, submarines, and aircraft, making Navy veterans the most at risk group. The confined spaces aboard ships, such as engine rooms and boiler rooms, increased the likelihood of inhaling asbestos fibers. The U.S. Navy is often considered the branch with the highest number of veterans affected by mesothelioma. Air Force veterans are also at high risk due to the use of asbestos in aircraft maintenance, including brake linings and insulation materials. While not as heavily exposed as Navy veterans, Army and Marine Corps veterans still faced asbestos exposure in military construction, vehicle repair, and maintenance of equipment.
Service-connected disability compensation: Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma may qualify for monthly disability compensation. The VA recognizes mesothelioma as a disease caused by service-related asbestos exposure, making it easier for affected veterans to file claims. Disability and Dependency Compensation (DIC): If a veteran passes away from mesothelioma, their surviving spouse and dependents may be eligible for compensation through DIC benefits. Asbestos Trust Funds: veterans who were exposed to asbestos through specific manufacturers may also be entitled to compensation from asbestos trust funds, which were established by companies that faced lawsuits for their role in asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is notoriously difficult to diagnose due to its long latency period and symptoms that mimic those of other diseases (e.g., pneumonia, lung cancer). Many veterans may not associate their symptoms with their military service until it’s too late; additionally, veterans are unaware of the connection between their military service and the risk of mesothelioma. This lack of awareness can delay diagnosis and treatment, and prevent veterans from pursuing the benefits they deserve.
Raising awareness of the connection between military service and mesothelioma can help veterans take proactive steps in managing their health and accessing the support they need. Campaigns focused on education, research, and advocating for veterans' rights can make a real difference. Veterans who served during the mid-20th century, especially those in the Navy, shipbuilding, or aircraft maintenance, face a higher risk of developing mesothelioma due to prolonged exposure to asbestos. Given the long latency period of the disease, many veterans are only now being diagnosed with mesothelioma. However, there are numerous resources available to assist these veterans, including VA benefits, legal claims, and medical treatments. By raising awareness, providing educational resources, and ensuring access to support and compensation, we can help veterans who are affected by this devastating disease. Please visit Veterans and Mesothelioma to learn more about what you can do to support our affected veteran brothers and sisters.
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