Causes of Mesothelioma Among Veterans

Military veterans face a heightened risk of mesothelioma due to the extensive use of asbestos within the armed forces from the 1930s to the 1980s. Asbestos, prized for its fire-resistant qualities, found its way into various military applications:


Mesothelioma Among Veterans


  • Army: Asbestos was integrated into barracks, vehicles, and aircraft.
  • Navy: Shipbuilding utilized asbestos in boilers, steam pipes, and turbines.
  • Air Force: Asbestos was employed in aircraft engines, brakes, and insulation.
  • Marines: Asbestos was present in barracks, ships, and vehicles.

 

The Navy, in particular, had substantial asbestos exposure risks. Shipyard roles, particularly in ship construction and maintenance, exposed veterans to high levels of asbestos.

Following their military service, veterans might encounter asbestos exposure from various other sources. Some professions or hobbies, like car restoration, have associations with asbestos. Moreover, family members of veterans might have been indirectly exposed to asbestos.

Veterans, regarded as heroes for their service in safeguarding the nation, often faced asbestos exposure during their military tenure, leading to mesothelioma. They rightfully deserve the available benefits and support systems.

 

Types of Veterans Benefits for Mesothelioma

If you're a veteran diagnosed with mesothelioma, you could be eligible for full disability compensation, provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. This compensation package may include health care services and regular monthly payments.

As a surviving spouse of a veteran, you might also qualify for benefits. For instance, you could be eligible for Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC). This benefit is accessible if your spouse passes away due to a service-related disability.

 

VA Health Care

The eligibility for VA health care enrollment relies on the income level of the veteran. Additionally, confirmation of an illness linked to their service is required.

Regarding mesothelioma, the VA deems it service-connected if at least 50% of the asbestos exposure occurred during active duty.

 

Disability Compensation

Monthly disability compensation is contingent on a veteran's level of disability and is affected by the number of dependents. Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers are considered 100% disabling by the VA.

For veterans without dependents who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the monthly payment is $3,621.95. Married veterans receive a monthly compensation of $3,985.96. These figures are based on the Veterans Compensation Benefits Rate Tables, which outline varying rates for different situations.

 

Special Monthly Compensation

Veterans with disabilities that necessitate the assistance of another person can be eligible for special monthly compensation, which typically ranges from $4,600 to over $6,120 per month. This benefit extends to spouses and parents of veterans as well.

The rates for special monthly compensation are contingent on various factors, such as the number of dependents among other considerations.


Dependency and Indemnity Compensation

Surviving spouses of veterans whose death was due to service-related disabilities are entitled to Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC), a monthly benefit that can amount to up to $1,562.74.

In certain situations, an extra monthly payment is accessible, but spouses of deceased veterans must submit a claim to receive this additional benefit.

 

VA Burial Benefits

The burial allowance provided by the VA for a death associated with military service amounts to $2,000. To access this benefit, individuals must demonstrate that they covered the expenses for a veteran's burial or funeral.

\Additionally, proof of the veteran's death resulting from a service-connected disability is necessary. This encompasses disabilities like mesothelioma attributed to military asbestos exposure. Familiarizing oneself with the specific prerequisites for filing a claim is crucial in this process.

 

Who's Eligible for Veterans Benefits?

To qualify for VA benefits, it's crucial to initiate the claim process promptly upon diagnosis. Gathering documentation on asbestos exposure and diagnosis is essential for filing a VA claim.

Once the necessary requirements are met, seeking assistance from a VA-accredited claims agent is advisable. These professionals can guide you through the process and ensure you receive the compensation you're entitled to. Collaborating with a VA-accredited claims agent can simplify the entire process, providing support from beginning to end.

Asbestos exposure poses a significant risk for various diseases, many of which are eligible for VA benefits. These diseases include asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma, and others such as bronchus cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, and interstitial pulmonary fibrosis, among others.

Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma should seek assistance to access the benefits they deserve. Contacting a VA-accredited claims agent is a crucial step in commencing the claim process.

 

Treatment for Veterans with Mesothelioma

It's vital for veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma to understand the importance of early diagnosis and prompt treatment.

Symptoms of this condition might manifest several decades after military service. If you experience any symptoms following asbestos exposure during your service, it's essential to consult your doctor. They can assist in diagnosing the condition and discussing available options.

Upon receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis, seeking out a specialist becomes crucial. The VA provides access to leading mesothelioma specialists across the United States, ensuring veterans have access to the most advanced treatment options available.

The primary treatments for mesothelioma typically encompass surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Eligible veterans can access these treatments through the VA, which also provides support for travel arrangements, covering expenses like airfare and housing.

For veterans meeting specific criteria, the Veterans Choice Program extends the option to receive care outside the VA system.

Eligibility is applicable for veterans residing more than 40 miles from the nearest VA facility or for those unable to secure an appointment within 30 days.

Veterans are encouraged to discuss these options with their VA doctor to determine the most suitable course of action.


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