Asbestos is a type of mineral that had various uses during the 1980’s in the military. It has insulation, fire resistance, anti-corrosive properties, and indestructibility.
These qualities are what make asbestos a useful chemical, offering various applications. However, these qualities are what make it incredibly lethal to human health, since the body is unable to break down its fibers.
According to reports, asbestos exposure among veterans is estimated to have caused over 40,000 deaths and posed serious health risks.
There are asbestos exposure claims that you can be eligible for and getting help with VA claims will help you achieve the appropriate asbestos rating.
How were veterans exposed to Asbestos?
Asbestos is useful when it comes to waterproofing and insulation. It also allows machines to function with less friction. Because of these properties, asbestos was used in the following applications:
- Navy Ships
- Shipyards
- Aircrafts
- Land Vehicles
- Tanks and;
- Oil reserves
Shipyards began to commonly use asbestos in the 1920s. In 1932 to 1937, the United States used over 633 million pounds of asbestos, and in 1939, it was considered one of the most essential chemicals for shipyards.
This implies that the risk of asbestos exposure is higher for Navy service members.
The United States government continued to use asbestos for its insulating properties until the 1960s and 1970s, when it became aware of its carcinogenic effects.
Despite the necessary actions being taken, some decommissioned ships still contain asbestos.
In land vehicles, where friction frequently occurs, asbestos finds further applications. Prior to its discontinuation, asbestos finds its application in brake linings, pads, clutches, and engine gaskets due to its exceptional ability to insulate heat and electricity.
Due to its insulation capabilities, asbestos also found its value in aircraft such as planes, jets, and choppers.
Amid World War II, workers from shipyards needed to handle asbestos products, resulting in an estimated exposure of 4,500,000.
The risks associated with using asbestos are particularly prominent in its manufacturing and repair processes, as well as in construction materials. Another example of veteran asbestos exposure is from the 9/11 terrorist attacks, when the government deployed several Army National Guards to New York to provide security and cleanup assistance.
There are reports claiming that the World Trade Center contains over 400 tons of asbestos.
Is Asbestos Exposure a VA Disability?
Exposure to asbestos can result in mesothelioma, a rare cancer affecting your lungs and the membrane that surrounds them. Additionally, there are two other medical conditions that are related to asbestos exposure:
Asbestosis
This condition primarily arises from extensive and prolonged exposure to asbestos. It scars the lung tissues, resulting in irregular breathing problems and issues with the overall function of the lungs.
Pleural Plaques
The lower part of the chest develops scars, leading to breathing issues. Pleural plaques are usually benign and less severe than asbestosis or mesothelioma.
Since exposure to asbestos can result in a severe medical condition, the VA allows eligible veterans to have a VA rating for mesothelioma, or VA claims for asbestos.
Once it is confirmed that you have a medical condition due to asbestos exposure, the VA mesothelioma provides you with a payout to cover expenses for your condition.
Evidence needed to prove disability claim for Asbestos Exposure
A disability claim resulting from asbestos exposure requires evidence. To be eligible for asbestos compensation, you must meet the following requirements:
- Medical records detailing your illness and asbestos exposure.
- If you have one, you can also provide a medical nexus letter or civilian medical records.
- The medical nexus letter is a signed document by your selected physician that confirms the connection between your disability and a related event during active service.
- Service records detailing your specific duties and a military discharge paper.
- Generally, the VA provides VA benefits claim assistance to veterans who have received an honorable discharge. To confirm that you were an active service member, supplying a document that explains your duty can expedite the VA claims process.
Explaining your service records can help the VA understand the beginnings of your exposure. If you’ve served in the following areas during your military service, it’s advisable to undergo testing.
- Shipyards
- Construction
- Mining
- Construction
Getting assistance in filing your disability claims
Asbestos has various applications, and even if the United States banned the use of asbestos, there are still potential risks for service members deployed in other countries that are potentially using asbestos for its constructions and other machines.
It is advisable to always confirm what health conditions you are at risk of, and seek the help of a professional medical physician. Performing this, provides you with the potential to acquire VA benefits claims assistance.
Navigating the VA claims process is easier said than done, and here at Just4Veteran, we understand more than anybody the complexities that come with filing a VA claim.
With our coaching service and education, we can guarantee that you will be equipped with the knowledge that will allow you to maneuver your way to the correct and appropriate VA rating.
You may book a free strategy call and get in touch with our experienced veteran coaches. You can also check out our VA claims assistance page to know more about what we offer.