Mesothelioma in the Military: An Invisible Enemy

When we think of the dangers and challenges that military personnel face, the conversation usually revolves around combat and psychological trauma. However, there is another insidious risk that has affected thousands of veterans over the years: mesothelioma. Resulting from exposure to asbestos, a material once ubiquitously used in military applications, mesothelioma poses a severe, long-term risk that manifests decades after the initial exposure. This article aims to delve into the historical context, risk factors, and repercussions of mesothelioma among military veterans.

Historical Context: Asbestos in the Military

Asbestos gained popularity for its fire-resistant properties, especially during World War II and the Cold War era. The material was heavily used in naval ships, airplanes, vehicles, and even military barracks. Primarily, the Navy was the largest consumer of asbestos-containing products, using them to insulate pipes, boilers, and electrical components in ships ("Asbestos and the Military," Mesothelioma Center). The rationale for the widespread use of asbestos was its cost-effectiveness, availability, and suitability for enhancing safety measures in military applications (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences).

The Invisible Enemy: What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the mesothelium—the protective lining around vital organs like the lungs, heart, and abdomen. The primary cause is asbestos exposure, where the tiny, airborne fibers are inhaled or ingested. These fibers can get lodged into the mesothelium, causing cellular damage over time, which can lead to cancer (American Cancer Society). Unfortunately, mesothelioma often has a long latency period, sometimes not manifesting until 20 to 50 years after the initial exposure ("Latency Period of Mesothelioma," Asbestos.com). This latency makes it challenging to diagnose early and equally difficult to treat effectively.

Who is at Risk?

As mentioned earlier, approximately 30% of all mesothelioma cases in the U.S. are veterans ("Asbestos Exposure in the Military," U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs). Those most at risk are the servicemen and women who served between the 1940s and the late 1970s, a period when the use of asbestos-containing materials was at its peak. Occupations such as shipyard workers, boiler technicians, mechanics, and construction engineers had the most elevated risk. However, even those who didn't work directly with asbestos-containing materials were at risk due to its pervasive use in military infrastructure.

The Legal Landscape

Veterans do have recourse for the health implications they suffer due to asbestos exposure during their service. They can file claims with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) for conditions related to asbestos exposure, including mesothelioma. Unfortunately, the Feres Doctrine prevents them from suing the U.S. government for any illnesses or injuries incurred during their service ("Feres Doctrine," Cornell Law School). As a result, some have sought compensation from asbestos manufacturers through lawsuits or trust funds (Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation).

Medical Treatment and Support

Though there's currently no cure for mesothelioma, various treatments can manage the symptoms and improve the quality of life for affected individuals. These treatment options include surgery to remove the affected tissue, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy ("Treatment of Malignant Mesothelioma," National Cancer Institute). Supportive care, including palliative treatments to alleviate pain, is also crucial. There are various VA health programs and specialized mesothelioma treatment centers that can provide specialized care for veterans.

Prevention and Future Directions

While the military has made significant strides in phasing out the use of asbestos in new installations and equipment, older structures still pose a risk. Thus, there's an ongoing need for asbestos abatement programs to remove or safely contain these materials (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). Moreover, early diagnosis through regular screenings can help in the timely treatment of this disease, which is vital given its aggressive nature and poor prognosis.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma remains a substantial yet largely under-discussed issue in the military community. Though asbestos use has been significantly reduced, its long-term impact continues to affect veterans, requiring attention and action. It is crucial to raise awareness, expedite legal processes for affected individuals, and invest in research for effective treatments. The men and women who serve their countries should not have to battle an invisible enemy like mesothelioma, long after their active service has ended.

References

1. "Asbestos and the Military," Mesothelioma Center.

2. National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences: "Asbestos Exposure and Health Effects."

3. American Cancer Society: "What is Mesothelioma?"

4. "Latency Period of Mesothelioma," Asbestos.com.

5. "Asbestos Exposure in the Military," U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

6. "Feres Doctrine," Cornell Law School.

7. Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation: "Legal Options for Mesothelioma Victims."

8. "Treatment of Malignant Mesothelioma," National Cancer Institute.

9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: "Asbestos Abatement."