Decades After Service, Asbestos-Related Illnesses Continue to Plague Veterans
The legacy of asbestos use in the U.S. military continues to cast a long shadow over the health and well-being of veterans, particularly in New York State. Despite the cessation of widespread asbestos use decades ago, many former service members now face the delayed consequences of exposure, grappling with life-threatening illnesses and navigating complex systems of care and compensation.
5 Key Points
- Asbestos was extensively used in all branches of the U.S. military, especially during WWII.
- New York veterans, particularly those who served in the Navy, face high risks of asbestos-related diseases.
- Symptoms of asbestos exposure often appear decades after initial contact.
- The PACT Act of 2022 has expanded healthcare and compensation for toxic-exposed veterans.
- Regular health check-ups and awareness are crucial for early detection and treatment.
The Historical Context of Military Asbestos Use
The widespread use of asbestos in the U.S. Armed Forces traces back to the early 20th century, reaching its peak during World War II. The material’s abundance, affordability, and durability made it an attractive option for military applications, particularly in shipbuilding and construction. All five branches of the military incorporated asbestos into their equipment and facilities, unknowingly exposing countless service members to this hazardous substance.
The Navy, in particular, became the most prolific user of asbestos. The Two-Ocean Navy Act, which expanded the U.S. Naval Forces by more than 70% before the United States entered WWII, led to an unprecedented surge in shipbuilding. Asbestos insulation was used extensively, from bow to stern, putting naval personnel at an exceedingly high risk of exposure. This extensive use of asbestos in naval vessels built before the 1980s has resulted in a disproportionately high rate of asbestos-related diseases among Navy veterans.
New York’s Military Legacy and Asbestos Exposure
New York State played a significant role in the nation’s military efforts, particularly during World War II, and this legacy is intertwined with the state’s asbestos exposure history. The Bethlehem Steel shipyard in Staten Island, established in 1895, exemplifies this connection. During WWII, the shipyard expanded its operations to build larger vessels for the Navy, employing approximately 12,000 workers. This expansion led to increased asbestos use, resulting in thousands of exposure cases among both civilian workers and military personnel.
Beyond shipyards, New York’s five military bases have also been sites of potential asbestos exposure. Notable among these is the U.S. Military Academy Army Base in West Point, which provided officers during the World Wars and the Cold War. Another significant site is the Saratoga Springs NSU Navy Base, home to the Nuclear Power Training Unit, where asbestos may have been used in various applications related to nuclear power management.
The large veteran community in Ontario County and the City of Geneva’s veteran population are among those potentially affected by this historical asbestos use. The prevalence of asbestos in military installations means that veterans who served at any of New York’s bases may have been exposed, even if they were not directly involved in shipbuilding or other high-risk activities.
The Devastating Impact of Asbestos Exposure
The health consequences of asbestos exposure are severe and often manifest decades after the initial contact. Asbestos crumbles into microscopic fibers when disturbed, creating dust that can remain airborne for hours. These tiny, sharp-edged fibers, when inhaled or ingested, can cause permanent damage to vital organs, particularly the lungs and pleura.
Asbestos-related conditions typically have a long latency period, with symptoms appearing 20 to 50 years after exposure. This delayed onset means that veterans who experienced no immediate health issues during their service may now face devastating diagnoses. The most severe asbestos-related diseases include:
- Mesothelioma: An aggressive cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, chest, or abdomen.
- Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease characterized by scarring of lung tissue.
- Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in smokers.
- Other Respiratory Conditions Include: pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
These conditions not only impact the physical health of veterans but also carry significant emotional and financial burdens. Many veterans must confront the harsh reality that their service, which was meant to protect their country, has led to life-threatening illnesses that will likely shorten their lives.
The Struggle for Well-being After Exposure
Veterans exposed to asbestos during their service now face a new battle – fighting for their health and accessing appropriate care. The challenge is compounded by the fact that no existing treatment can reverse the damage done by asbestos. Current medical interventions focus on slowing disease progression, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications.
New York’s ranking as 24th in the nation for lung cancer incidence and its status as a top state for asbestos exposure underscores the urgency of the situation for veterans in the state. Early detection is critical in managing asbestos-related diseases, as it can significantly improve treatment outcomes and prolong life expectancy.
To protect their health, veterans are encouraged to:
- Undergo Regular Health Check-ups: This includes being proactive about scheduling appointments and following up on any concerning symptoms.
- Communicate Openly with Healthcare Providers: Veterans should inform their doctors about their military service history and potential asbestos exposure.
- Request Appropriate Screening Tests: Chest X-rays, CT scans, and pulmonary function tests are non-invasive methods that detect early signs of asbestos-related damage.
- Stay Informed About Their Rights: Understanding available compensation programs and legal options is crucial for accessing necessary care and support.
- Raise Awareness: Veterans can help educate others about the risks of asbestos exposure and the importance of early detection by sharing their experiences.
The PACT Act: A Step Forward for Veterans’ Care
The enactment of the Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act of 2022, known as the PACT Act, represents a significant advancement in addressing the needs of toxic-exposed veterans. This legislation, supported by New York State Senator Robert Rolison, aims to improve health care and compensation for veterans exposed to toxic substances during their service.
Key provisions of the PACT Act include:
- Extended eligibility for V.A. healthcare for veterans exposed to harmful substances during active duty.
- Expanded benefits for approximately 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans.
- It improved screening and care protocols for asbestos-related conditions.
Since the Act’s passage, over four million veterans have been screened for toxic exposure, and nearly 350,000 have been approved for expanded benefits. Approximately 20,000 veterans have filed PACT Act claims in New York alone, with over 8,000 receiving expanded benefits.
While the PACT Act represents progress, challenges remain in ensuring all affected veterans receive the care and compensation they deserve. Continued advocacy and awareness efforts are essential to reach all veterans eligible for these expanded benefits.
Looking to the Future: Ongoing Vigilance and Support
As the impacts of historical asbestos exposure continue to unfold, ongoing vigilance and support for veterans remain crucial. This includes:
- Continued Research: Investing in medical research to improve treatment options for asbestos-related diseases.
- Enhanced Screening Programs: Developing more efficient and accessible screening methods to detect asbestos-related conditions early.
- Public Education: Raising awareness about the long-term risks of asbestos exposure and the importance of early detection.
- Policy Advocacy: Supporting legislation that addresses the needs of toxic-exposed veterans and ensures long-term care and support.
- Community Support: Developing and maintaining support networks for veterans and their families affected by asbestos-related illnesses.
The story of veterans’ asbestos exposure is a stark reminder of the long-lasting impacts of military service and the importance of comprehensive, long-term care for those who have served. As we continue to uncover and address the consequences of past asbestos use, we must honor our commitment to veterans by ensuring they receive the care, support, and recognition they deserve.
FAQ
Q: Do you qualify for an asbestos lawsuit?
A: To see if you qualify, click here.
Q: Which veterans are at the highest risk for asbestos-related diseases?
A: Navy veterans, especially those who served on ships built before the 1980s, are at the highest risk due to the extensive use of asbestos in shipbuilding.
Q: How long after exposure do asbestos-related diseases typically develop?
A: Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases usually appear 20 to 50 years after initial exposure.
Q: What should veterans do if they suspect asbestos exposure during service?
A: Veterans should inform their healthcare providers, undergo regular health check-ups, request appropriate screening tests, and explore their rights for compensation and care through the V.A. and other programs.
Q: How has the PACT Act of 2022 affected care for veterans exposed to asbestos?
A: The PACT Act has expanded eligibility for V.A. healthcare and benefits for toxic-exposed veterans, including those affected by asbestos exposure.
Q: Are resources available specifically for New York veterans concerned about asbestos exposure?
A: Yes, New York veterans can access resources through the state’s V.A. facilities, and approximately 20,000 veterans in the state have filed PACT Act claims for expanded benefits related to toxic exposure.
Citations
Johnson, C. (2024, August 25). Asbestos exposure remains a concern New York veterans. Finger Lakes Times. https://www.fltimes.com/community_health/asbestos-exposure-remains-a-concern-new-york-veterans/article_e38403da-609f-11ef-a32a-577f623767ea.html
