Veterans all over the United States are being misdiagnosed as having pneumonia during the pandemic instead of receiving the accurate diagnosis of mesothelioma. Receiving an incorrect diagnosis could have fatal consequences as a treatment for mesothelioma needs to be immediate. Around a third of all Americans diagnosed with mesothelioma, each year are Veterans of the US Navy.

Millions of Veterans Develop Mesothelioma

Studies have shown that the toxic material, asbestos affected millions of veterans as part of their everyday military service. Builders used the deadly material to build military facilities and ships and regular maintenance of military vehicles. In fact, the military users over 300 products with asbestos, because of their fire-retardant properties. Common asbestos-containing products included cement, flooring products, insulation, steam pipes, hot water pipes, gaskets, brakes and clutches and boilers, turbines, and generators.
Asbestos exposure happened to other members of the military simply by being aboard ships. This was standard practice until the 1960s. In fact, over  30% of veterans who served before 1970 were victims of asbestos exposure. Plus, many inadvertently took asbestos home with them on their clothing. This exposed asbestos to their spouses and children.

Medical Care for Veterans with Mesothelioma Is Lacking

Unfortunately, many veterans are not receiving medical care or disability benefits they should. There are around 600,000 VA claims for federal benefits pending with the Veterans Administration. These include more than 123,000 disability claims of vets of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Veterans with asbestos-induced mesothelioma are facing the same obstacles.

Veteran Mesothelioma Symptoms

Many don’t notice the symptoms of mesothelioma right away. People brush them off, especially the elderly. The early symptoms often mirror signs of less serious respiratory issues, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, and emphysema. These symptoms are a common occurrence for seniors.  Then, the symptoms grow more serious. These can be chest pain, slight fatigue, or shortness of breath during physical activity.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Symptoms

You may not experience cancer symptoms for 20 to 50 years after your first exposure to asbestos. Once asbestos fibers reach the peritoneum and irritate the cells, the peritoneal lining starts to thicken. As cancer develops, the buildup of excess fluid in the abdomen, known as ascites, may occur next. Over time, tumors form and place pressure on the organs.

Pericardial Mesothelioma Symptoms

The buildup of fluid and thickening of pericardial layers causes most symptoms.  The presence of any of these symptoms should be followed by a visit to the doctor with recommended screenings such as an X-ray or CT scan. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, especially heart-related symptoms, schedule an appointment with your doctor immediately. Screening tests like X-rays, CT scans, and echocardiograms can usually reveal the underlying cause of these health problems.

Financial Assistance

All in all, treatment is expensive, and insurance companies may not cover the cost of everything. If you don’t have medical insurance, treatment can be very difficult. If a doctor diagnosed you or a loved one with Mesothelioma, you may need assistance.  It is important to note that companies could have prevented your asbestos-related cancer since these corporations mined, manufactured, and sold asbestos products that put profits over the health of you. Our legal system exists to hold these people accountable.

Get Help with a Specialized Complex Litigation Attorney

A Complex Litigation attorney like those found at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is critical when seeking help to cover your asbestos-related expenses. Identifying when and where you were exposed to asbestos is crucial to your lawsuit. Experienced lawyers are familiar with companies that used asbestos and know which job sites had a significant amount of asbestos use. Also, they know which products contained high concentrations of the toxic mineral.
Also, consultations are completely free, confidential, and have no obligation. The Michael Brady Lynch Firm has successfully represented thousands of consumers and recovered millions of dollars for their clients. Our team of attorneys has been recognized as some of the most experienced and successful in the country. Our award-winning staff is also sought after for our knowledge of complex litigation, scientific evidence development, negotiation strategies, and trial tactics.
Most of all, our law office is resourceful and dedicated to pursuing any compensation you are due. Because of this, we have also received a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, such as inclusion on numerous Plaintiff Steering Committees.  In fact, we will take whatever legal measures are necessary when fighting for your rights to damages.