However, information about the dangerous side effects of asbestos exposure was kept away from many of the unsuspecting users of this equipment. It was not until after intense pressure and the exposure from several high-profile mesothelioma cases that the military decided to restrict the use of asbestos and its by-products. However, by this time, thousands of veterans were already exposed to asbestos over extended periodsresulting in veterans accounting for over 30% of America’s mesothelioma cases.
Veterans most Susceptible to Mesothelioma
Asbestos was known to be a secret weapon during world war two. It was installed in many aircrafts, ships and portable buildings that allowed them to operate in very cold conditions. This was because the material was able to restrict the heat loss from within its enclosure.
Unfortunately, most of this equipment only had small enclosures from which to operate. This amplified the user’s exposure to the asbestos particles resulting in them developing pericardial, pleural or peritoneal mesothelioma.
Of all the arms of the military, those most exposed to asbestos particles were found in the navy. Asbestos was used extensively to insulate piping, boilers and engine room ducting. Asbestos was also used to make ducting for air-condition and distributed throughout the vessel. As a result, all personnel, especially those working in the engine room, were exposed to these asbestos particles even while sleeping.
Other military personnel who were exposed to asbestos particles were pilots during their operation of fighter planes and infantry soldiers who had sleep in structures made from asbestos.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma in Veterans
While thousands of veterans either have been treated or have died because of mesothelioma, many are now just experiencing their first symptoms. Unfortunately, many had been misdiagnosed over the years for other respiratory and cardiac ailments as the symptoms of mesothelioma during its developmental stages are similar to many of these illnesses.
These veterans complain of shortness of breath, fatigue, chest pains, stomach pains, bloating, excessive fluid in the stomach and unexplained loss of weight due to them developing Mesothelioma. Many have only been diagnosed when the disease is in its advanced state, resulting in short life expectancies.
One WWII navy industrial officer stated that during that era, the navy used 298 different types of asbestos products in its ships. This would have taken many years and billions of dollars for safe removal. Hence, a decision was taken to ignore the complaints about the side effects of asbestos exposure rather than losing the war and production levels on the grounds of a health risk. |
