Why Veterans and Retirees Over 65 Are Especially Vulnerable to Asbestos-Related Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure was widespread in high-risk industries and military settings throughout much of the 20th century. For veterans, asbestos was often present on Navy ships, in vehicle parts, and in the insulation used in military barracks. Retirees who worked in construction, manufacturing, or similar industries frequently encountered asbestos in the workplace.
Many veterans and retirees are only now experiencing the health effects of asbestos exposure. Diseases like asbestos-related lung cancer and mesothelioma (a rare cancer that affects the protective lining of the lungs and other organs) have long latency periods, often developing 20 to 50 years after exposure. By the time symptoms appear, victims may struggle to connect their health problems to asbestos.
Recognizing the early symptoms of asbestos exposure – such as persistent coughing, shortness of breath, or chest pain – is critical. Veterans and retirees with asbestos-related diseases may be eligible for financial compensation.
If you or a loved one served in the military or worked in an industry where asbestos was common, you could be entitled to compensation for asbestos-related illnesses, including medical costs, lost income, and more. An experienced asbestos exposure attorney can give you free information about your options for filing a claim and holding negligent manufacturers accountable.
Common Early Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
Recognizing early symptoms of asbestos-related diseases is essential, as symptoms often start subtly and may go unnoticed for years. Here are some common early signs:
- Persistent Cough: A chronic cough that doesn’t improve over time can be one of the first signs of asbestos-related lung disease. Unlike a typical cough, this may be dry and unproductive, although it can occasionally produce mucus. It often persists despite treatments for other respiratory conditions, indicating a deeper lung issue related to asbestos exposure.
- Shortness of Breath: Experiencing difficulty breathing, even during light physical activities, is a red flag. This shortness of breath, also known as dyspnea, can occur as scar tissue forms in the lungs from asbestos fibers, restricting the lungs’ ability to expand and contract. This is often one of the earliest noticeable symptoms, especially in activities that used to feel easy, like walking up the stairs, or taking short walks.
- Chest Pain: Chest pain associated with asbestos exposure is usually persistent or worsening, often mistaken for muscle strain or other benign causes. However, asbestos fibers lodged in the lung lining can cause irritation and inflammation, leading to chest discomfort. Pain may intensify with coughing, deep breaths, or movements and can sometimes indicate the presence of a tumor or the onset of mesothelioma.
- Fatigue and Unexplained Weight Loss: Feeling tired or noticing a sudden drop in weight without changes to diet or activity can be subtle yet significant warning signs. Fatigue associated with asbestos-related diseases, particularly mesothelioma, can feel like a constant, overwhelming tiredness that doesn’t improve with rest. Weight loss can occur as the body diverts energy to fight disease, often paired with a loss of appetite and decreased energy levels.
- Frequent Respiratory Infections: People exposed to asbestos may notice an increased susceptibility to respiratory infections, like bronchitis or pneumonia. This happens because asbestos fibers damage lung tissue, compromising the body’s ability to fight infections. If respiratory infections become frequent or severe, it could be a sign of underlying asbestos-related lung disease.
- Clubbing of Fingers and Toes: Clubbing, a condition where the tips of the fingers or toes become rounded and enlarged, is often linked to lung diseases. It results from reduced oxygen levels in the blood, which can occur as asbestos-related lung damage progresses. Clubbing can be gradual and easy to overlook, but it’s a common indicator of serious lung conditions like asbestosis and lung cancer.
- Difficulty Swallowing: While less common in early stages, some individuals experience trouble swallowing (dysphagia) due to pressure on the esophagus from growths or tumors linked to asbestos exposure. This symptom can lead to further weight loss and malnutrition as eating becomes increasingly uncomfortable.
- Swelling in the Face and Neck: Some forms of asbestos-related cancers can cause swelling in the face or neck, often due to lymph node involvement or blockage of blood flow. This symptom is rare but should be taken seriously, especially if combined with other respiratory symptoms, as it can indicate advanced disease stages.
- Hoarseness or Voice Changes: A raspy voice or hoarseness that persists over time can signal lung or throat irritation due to asbestos fibers. While hoarseness is often mild, it may progressively worsen and become more pronounced as asbestos-related lung diseases advance.
These symptoms may seem mild or easily mistaken for age-related issues, and many attribute them to other conditions. However, if you have a history of asbestos exposure – whether through military service or work in high-risk industries – taking these signs seriously could be crucial for early detection. Consulting a healthcare provider to discuss these symptoms and potentially perform screenings can help you access effective treatment and financial compensation to support your health journey.
Why Veterans and Retirees Are Eligible for Asbestos Compensation
Veterans and retirees were often exposed to asbestos during military service, shipyard work, or industrial jobs, with many unknowingly exposed as manufacturers hid the health risks. Today, asbestos manufacturers are required to compensate victims through trust funds set up for those diagnosed with illnesses like lung cancer and mesothelioma.
Remember: filing a claim for compensation does not affect VA benefits, Medicare, or Medicaid – these claims won’t interfere with your existing health coverage or financial assistance.
Unlike typical workplace injury claims, asbestos cases don’t involve suing your former employer or the military. Instead, claims are filed against the manufacturers who knowingly hid the dangers. This protects your relationship with past employers and focuses on holding the responsible companies accountable.
Compensation is also available for those who smoked or currently smoke, as asbestos exposure is a separate health risk. An experienced asbestos exposure lawyer can differentiate the effects of smoking and asbestos exposure, helping you build a strong case for the compensation you deserve. Common ways veterans and retirees were exposed to asbestos include:
- Naval Ships and Shipyards: Veterans who served in the Navy or worked in shipyards faced high levels of asbestos exposure, as the material was extensively used in shipbuilding for insulation, fireproofing, and engine components.
- Military Barracks and Bases: Asbestos was used to construct military barracks, aircraft hangars, and base facilities. Insulation, roofing materials, and floor tiles often contained asbestos, putting service members at risk during routine maintenance or renovations.
- Vehicle and Aircraft Parts: Many military vehicles, aircraft, and tanks contained asbestos parts, including brake pads, gaskets, and clutches. Veterans working in motor pools or aircraft maintenance had significant exposure when handling or repairing these components.
- Industrial and Construction Jobs: Retirees who worked in construction, manufacturing, or industrial settings were frequently exposed to asbestos in building materials like insulation, drywall, cement, and joint compounds. Asbestos exposure was common for those working in plumbing, electrical, or HVAC installation.
- Protective Gear and Equipment: Asbestos was used in protective gear and equipment due to its heat-resistant properties. Firefighters, welders, and other high-risk professions often wore asbestos-laden clothing or used equipment lined with asbestos, unknowingly putting themselves at risk.
These widespread sources of exposure explain why so many veterans and retirees now face serious health issues from asbestos-related diseases.
If you have been diagnosed with lung cancer or another asbestos-related illness, an experienced asbestos exposure attorney can help you navigate the process of seeking compensation through these established trust funds, ensuring you get the support you need.
Filing an Asbestos Exposure Claim
Filing an asbestos claim can be daunting, but an experienced lawyer can take the stress off the victim’s shoulders. Instead of navigating a complicated process alone, the victim can focus on their health while the lawyer handles everything needed to secure fair compensation. Here’s how it works:
- Case Review and Evidence Gathering: The attorney starts by reviewing the victim’s work and medical history to track down when and where asbestos exposure happened. They handle collecting all the crucial documents—like employment records, medical reports, and statements from former coworkers. This detailed evidence is key to proving the illness was caused by asbestos, even if the exposure took place decades ago.
- Finding Eligible Trust Funds: Many asbestos companies set up trust funds to compensate victims after they went bankrupt. The lawyer figures out which trust funds apply to the case and files the claims. Each trust fund has its own set of rules and deadlines, but the lawyer manages these details, making sure no money is left on the table.
- Filing the Claim and Negotiating Payouts: With the evidence in place, the lawyer files the claims and handles all the negotiations. They push for the highest possible payout, often settling the case without needing a trial. This approach speeds up the process, helping the victim get financial relief sooner.
Compensation options for veterans and retirees diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses can be essential in covering the costs of medical treatment and supporting their well-being. With the lawyer taking on the heavy work, the victim can focus on what matters most: their health, family, and day-to-day life.
An experienced asbestos lawyer keeps the process moving, working behind the scenes to secure the best outcome and get the compensation needed to cover medical expenses and more.
Taking Action to Protect Your Health and Financial Future
For veterans and retirees who have been exposed to asbestos, recognizing the signs of asbestos-related illness is critical. Although symptoms may take years to appear, identifying them early can make a difference in accessing treatment and obtaining rightful compensation. Time limits may apply to asbestos claims, so consulting with a professional as soon as symptoms appear is key to navigating the legal process and maximizing support for you and your loved ones.
If you’re a veteran or retiree with lung cancer, it’s understandable to feel overwhelmed. You spent years working hard and serving your country, never knowing the risks hidden in asbestos. Now, those manufacturers who hid the dangers are paying out claims, often in six-figure amounts.
You don’t have to handle this alone. An experienced asbestos lawyer can walk you through the process, take on the tough parts, and fight for what you deserve.
If you are over 65, worked in a high-risk industry, and have been diagnosed with lung cancer, contact a verified asbestos exposure attorney today for a free, no-risk consultation. Filing a claim won’t affect your VA benefits, Medicare, or Medicaid – it’s separate from those and meant to hold the right people accountable.
