Thousands of former Navy, Army, Air Force, Marine and Coast Guard personnel have begun to develop mesothelioma. The asbestos-related disease can take up to 50 years to develop from the time of initial exposure to asbestos. Consequently, many veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service are just now developing the disease.
Navy veterans that served on ships in the 1940s, 50s and 60s are at the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma. During and after WWII, the shipyard industry used many asbestos-laden products to build U.S. Navy ships due to its durability and strength. This not only put shipyard workers at risk, but also the sailors serving on the ships who, day after day, were exposed to asbestos.
Asbestos on U.S. Navy Ships
Following is a list of products made with asbestos that can be found on U.S. Navy ships built during and after WWII:
Veterans with the Highest Risk of Mesothelioma
While any exposure to asbestos can be harmful, research shows those exposed to asbestos every day for long periods of time are at higher risk of developing mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Following is a list of jobs veterans may have had that put them at the greatest risk of developing mesothelioma:
By the time the military discovered the harmful effects of asbestos exposure, thousands of sailors, soldiers, marines and other veterans had already been exposed to high levels of the toxic mineral without knowing it. Unfortunately, all veterans who served in the 1940s, 50s and 60s are at risk of developing mesothelioma.
While some veterans are being treated for the disease, others may be experiencing symptoms without knowing it. If you or anyone you know is a veteran who may have been exposed to asbestos, talk to a physician immediately.