Mesothelioma & Veterans: Asbestos Exposure in the Marines
Asbestos exposure in the Marines was common until the serious health risks associated with this deadly mineral were well understood. If you were exposed to asbestos during military service, you might be entitled to legal compensation. The asbestos exposure lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg have what it takes to handle your case, and you can count on us to deliver the high-quality representation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
Quick Links
- Legal Rights and Compensation for Affected Marine Corps Veterans
- At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, We Understand Marine Asbestos Exposure Cases
- Historical Context of Asbestos in the Marines
- Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure for Marine Corps Veterans
- Recognizing Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Illnesses
- Preventive Measures and Current Status
- Marines Asbestos Exposure FAQs
- The Asbestos Exposure Lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg Can Help
Throughout much of the 20th century, asbestos was widely used in the U.S. military, including the Marine Corps. Because of its extreme resistance to high temperatures, this naturally occurring fibrous mineral was used to insulate vessels, shipyards, naval bases, and military equipment. However, asbestos is also associated with very serious health risks, many of which take decades to appear after initial exposure.
As the risks associated with asbestos became more well-known, it was already too late for many veterans. The widespread use of asbestos in the military has left countless veterans, including many who served in the Marine Corps, suffering severe health consequences, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.
If you are a former Marines servicemember who is now suffering the consequences of asbestos exposure, do not wait to consult with an attorney. The skilled legal team at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can help you seek compensation. Call us at (212) 897-1988 or fill out our online form to schedule your free consultation.
Legal Rights and Compensation for Affected Marine Corps Veterans
There are multiple legal avenues toward compensation available to veterans of the Marines who are facing asbestos-related sicknesses because of exposure during their military service. Among other things, you may be able to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain, and suffering. The best way to maximize your chances of recovering the full compensation you are entitled to is by securing high-quality legal representation.
If you are a Marine Corps veteran who came in contact with asbestos during service, a knowledgeable and experienced asbestos exposure lawyer at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can help. Our seasoned attorneys can guide you through the complexities of the legal claims process, including gathering evidence to build your case, filing your claim, and negotiating a fair settlement with responsible parties.
At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, We Understand Marine Asbestos Exposure Cases
Meirowitz & Wasserberg is an award-winning, full-service personal injury law firm. Our proven track record in handling complex asbestos exposure lawsuits means you can count on our attorneys to provide the exceptional legal representation you deserve. We are well-versed in the laws governing asbestos cases and have the skills and resources needed to handle your case from beginning to end.
Let our legal team defend your right to full and fair compensation. Whether you need an aggressive negotiator or a passionate courtroom advocate, our asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers are committed to securing the best possible outcome in your case.
Historical Context of Asbestos in the Marines
Asbestos was used extensively by the U.S. military for decades, including in the Marine Corps. Products made using this dangerous mineral were installed in everything from barracks to naval vessels to take advantage of its heat-resistant properties.
Though its use reached new heights during World War II and through the Cold War era, the first report of radiological change among seamen working near asbestos involved a marine fireman in 1918. Because asbestos started being used as insulation around the turn of the last century, chances are other servicemembers were exposed before that date.
Since it was first used by the military, countless servicemembers have been exposed to asbestos. For example, an estimated 4.5 million workers were employed in asbestos-containing shipyards during World War II alone.
Once the risks associated with asbestos exposure became more well-known, many laws were passed at the state and federal levels to control its use. For example, the United States imposed four subsequent asbestos bans between 1973 and 1989. The military also began to phase out asbestos use throughout its operations.
Even so, each year that goes by sees more and more cases involving servicemembers suffering the long-term consequences of asbestos exposure. Many have died without ever exercising their right to compensation.
Common Applications of Asbestos in the Military
Again, asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral. Its fibrous crystalline structure makes it highly resistant to heat, fire, and chemical corrosion. These properties, coupled with its cost-effectiveness and ready availability, made asbestos historically popular as an insulator. For example, it was commonly used to insulate pipes, boilers, generators, and electrical components in military vehicles, naval vessels, aircraft, and barracks.
Health Risks of Asbestos Exposure for Marine Corps Veterans
Asbestos is most dangerous when its crystal fibers come loose and are released into the air. When asbestos fibers become airborne, nearby individuals can inhale them. Once they float into the body, the crystal fibers become lodged, leading to diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma.
Early Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
The most serious effects of inhaling asbestos typically manifest decades after initial exposure. In other words, it does not normally cause immediate symptoms in the way inhaling something like a toxic gas might. Even so, any amount of asbestos exposure is dangerous and should be avoided.
Long-Term Effects and Diseases
As time passes, asbestos fibers embedded within the body start to take their deadly toll. The following symptoms may start to manifest anywhere from 10-40 years after initial asbestos exposure:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent coughing
- Chest tightness or pain
- Wheezing
- Enlargement and rounding of the fingernails and toenails
Further, asbestos is classified as a carcinogen by numerous organizations and governmental agencies, including the Department of Health and Human Services, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer. It has been linked to the following cancers:
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
- Larynx cancer
- Ovary cancer
- Colon cancer
- Stomach cancer
- Pharynx cancer
Mesothelioma is the most well-known cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Though relatively rare, the vast majority of mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos. This cancer affects the mesothelium, a membrane that lines the lung, heart, and abdominal cavities in the body. Around 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed annually.
Elevated Asbestos Exposure Risks Faced by Marine Veterans
Marine veterans may face a heightened risk of developing asbestos-related diseases due to the extensive use of the material in military applications. Because asbestos is most lethal when its strands come loose and are released into the air, this is especially true for servicemembers who worked in small, enclosed spaces with little air circulation. For example, people who worked as mechanics in the military faced an especially high risk of asbestos exposure.
Recognizing Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos-Related Illnesses
The symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses may not initially be severe. However, as these sicknesses progress, their symptoms gradually worsen and often lead to death. In addition to chest pain and breathing problems, you may experience fatigue, weight loss, and fluid buildup around the lungs. These symptoms are not exclusively associated with mesothelioma, but they are red flags that warrant immediate medical attention.
Early detection is critical to increase your odds of survival. Therefore, if you served in the Marines and suspect you may have been exposed to asbestos, you should consult with your doctor as soon as possible.
Preventive Measures and Current Status
Since the 1980s, the Marine Corps has taken steps to reduce the risks of asbestos exposure. Materials containing asbestos have been gradually phased out in favor of safer alternatives. Buildings, ships, and equipment that once contained asbestos are either retrofitted or decommissioned to comply with current safety standards.
The military has also improved safety protocols for current Marine personnel. These protocols include regular inspections of facilities and equipment. Marines also receive comprehensive training programs on the dangers of asbestos and how to handle materials that may contain it. Further, the Marine Corps provides personal protective equipment to minimize the risk of exposure during operations that could disturb and release asbestos fibers into the air.
Marines Asbestos Exposure FAQs
Various resources and programs are available to address the long-term health risks associated with asbestos exposure. For example, the Department of Veterans Affairs offers health care benefits and disability compensation for veterans affected by asbestos-related diseases.
To learn more, explore the guide prepared by Meirowitz & Wasserberg outlining the various resources and programs available to veterans. If you have any questions or concerns, reach out to have them addressed in a free consultation.
You should gather as much information as possible about your illness and its connection to your time in service. The asbestos exposure attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg can help you gather the necessary evidence and file your claim.
Asbestos exposure can lead to health conditions such as mesothelioma and other types of cancer. Marine Corps veterans are at particularly high risk due to the extensive use of asbestos in military equipment and naval vessels.
The statute of limitations varies by state. You may have as little as one year or as long as six years to file. This is one reason why speaking with a U.S. Marines asbestos lawyer as quickly as possible after your diagnosis is so important. You will be time-barred from collecting compensation if you miss your filing deadline. Our attorneys can make sure you file on time.
Absolutely. In many cases, surviving loved ones are eligible to file a wrongful death lawsuit after losing someone to sicknesses caused by asbestos exposure. Speaking with our knowledgeable mesothelioma lawyers is the best way to get your case started on the right foot.
The Asbestos Exposure Lawyers at Meirowitz & Wasserberg Can Help
Asbestos exposure can lead to deadly consequences. If you are suffering the long-term health consequences of asbestos exposure after serving in the Marine Corps, you are probably entitled to compensation and should not wait to have your case evaluated by an experienced attorney.
At Meirowitz & Wasserberg, our team of seasoned asbestos exposure lawyers knows how to handle these kinds of cases. We proudly help asbestos-exposure victims exercise their legal rights and are here to help you secure the justice and compensation you deserve. Call us at (212) 897-1988 or complete our online form to schedule your free consultation.
AVAILABLE 24/7
Get Your Free Case ReviewNotable Results
$32,000,000+
Asbestos Exposure Verdict
$5,100,000+
Mesothelioma Settlement
$4,000,000+
Mesothelioma Settlement
Mesothelioma Related Cases
related Mesothelioma cases by Meirowitz & Wasserberg
Mesothelioma cases handled by Attorneys at Meirowitz & Wasserberg
Asbestos related cases by Meirowitz & Wasserberg
