Veterans and Asbestos Exposure

According the U.S. Census Bureau, there are over 22 million military veterans in the United States. Any veteran who served in any branch before the 1970s was likely exposed to asbestos and has a higher risk of developing an asbestos-related illness, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis or lung cancer. Asbestos was widely used in thousands of products until its use became highly regulated in the early 1980s by the Environmental Protection Agency and other federal, state, and local agencies. Asbestos was used in so many products because it is highly heat and fire resistant, acts as an excellent insulator, and was very affordable and available.

Thousands of construction and industrial products incorporated asbestos. Some of the most common asbestos containing materials (ACMs) that the military used are:

Steam pipes for heating units and boilers
Pipe covering
Brakes
Gaskets
Valves
Cement and mortars
Adhesives
Floor and pipe coverings (lagging)
Ceiling tiles
Roofing shingles
Wallboard and wall paneling
Packing materials
Fire-proofing materials
Thermal insulation
Boilers
Research more about veterans who are at risk of asbestos exposure.

Legal Rights for Veterans with Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma patients and their loved ones can file lawsuits against the companies responsible for their asbestos exposure. And as a veteran of any branch of the military, you are also entitled to file a disability claim with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Both of these processes, however, can be difficult and it is helpful to get the help of experience mesothelioma attorneys.