Unfortunately, occupational hazards do not end for veterans when they complete their military service.  A disproportionate number of veterans develop mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure they received while serving their nation in the armed forces. In fact, approximately 30% of all patients in the U.S. diagnosed with this lethal form of cancer served in the military at some point.

Asbestos in the Military

As a result of its effectiveness as an insulator against heat, fire and chemicals, asbestos was a tremendously popular material in a number of military applications. It was a major component of nearly all maintenance, repair and construction projects. Beginning with its use during World War II on naval ships, asbestos use eventually spread to all forms of military transportation.   In addition, the dangerous material was also a heavily-used material in military housing and bases, finding its way into everything from insulation to plumbing.

Military Asbestos Exposure

Although widely used in every branch of the military, the Navy, Coast Guard and Marines found the material most useful because of its value as an insulator on ships. In fact, over 300 products used in the Navy have been shown to contain asbestos. Because of the devastation fires can cause on board ships, during World War II the Navy mandated that all new vessels use asbestos in their construction. For that reason, both those who served on and built these military ships are among the most likely to develop mesothelioma.

Military Regulation of Asbestos

Unfortunately, decades passed before the military finally recognized the dangers of asbestos and began to discontinue its use. Although the Navy initiated a ban on the material in the 1970s, later revelations show that the material’s use was continued on ships for some years after. Although the military had an undeniably delayed reaction to the presence of asbestos, scientific evidence showing the dangers of this material began surfacing in the 1950s, providing little excuse for continuing its use.

Veteran Compensation

Despite the destructive results of asbestos exposure, which can include various illnesses like asbestosis and mesothelioma, veterans cannot seek compensation from the U.S. government through legal action. Although The Department of Veteran Affairs now recognizes mesothelioma as an illness connected with military service and the VA provides aid to sufferers, veterans must prove their exposure occurred during their military service. This means that veterans unable to prove their condition is a direct result of their service are not eligible for any aid.

Reference:

U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs