Lung cancer is one of the serious health problems related to service in the United States Navy. The risk of developing lung cancer increases for Navy veterans because of their exposure to dangerous substances such as asbestos and nuclear radiation. So, Navy service members may be eligible for Navy veterans lung cancer compensation benefits through the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). Here’s more on this important subject.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a mineral fiber known for its heat-resistant properties. Asbestos also limits corrosion.
Asbestos had been used in ships and other naval equipment for decades. While it was once thought useful and beneficial, asbestos has since been linked to many health issues. These health issues include lung cancer.
Asbestos fibers enter the lungs when the material is disturbed or damaged in some way. Tiny fibers enter the air, are inhaled and, over time, cause lung damage. Asbestos was used on Naval ships in boiler and engine rooms, mess halls, bunk areas and navigation rooms.
What Is Government-Created Radiation?
Mid-twentieth century, some Navy service members received high levels of atomic radiation. Naval ships and submarines powered by nuclear reactors have been the source of this exposure.
Examples of the catastrophic illnesses which veterans have developed as a result of nuclear radiation include cancer, immune system disorders and birth defects. Even shipyards where these military vessels were docked and serviced exposed Naval workers to nuclear radiation and asbestos.
What Are the Symptoms of Lung Cancer from Asbestos or Radiation?
The symptoms of lung cancer caused by asbestos or radiation exposure are similar to those of lung cancer unrelated to these toxic materials. These symptoms may include:
- Persistent coughing
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Wheezing
- Fatigue
However, there is something which doctors call a latency period. The latency period is the time between exposure to cancer-causing materials and the start of noticeable symptoms.
For asbestos or radiation-related lung cancer the latency period can be several decades. Accordingly, Naval service members who were exposed many years ago may just now be experiencing symptoms of lung cancer or other health problems.
What Can You Do If You Were Exposed to Radiation or Asbestos?
If you served on a ship or nuclear submarine or worked in a Naval shipyard and have developed symptoms of lung cancer, seek medical attention immediately. Your primary care physician can perform or order lung cancer screening tests to determine if your illness is related to asbestos or radiation exposure.
As a result of these toxic exposures, Navy veterans who develop lung cancer may be eligible for benefits from the US Department of Veteran Affairs (VA). These VA benefits for cancer patients include monetary compensation for their illnesses as well as access to ongoing medical care and support services, such as counseling.
The US Department of Veteran Affairs recognizes that lung cancer can develop many years–even decades–after exposure to asbestos or radiation. So, Navy veterans may not have to prove a direct link between their service and their diagnosis of lung cancer in order to receive VA benefits. However, they do need to provide proof of their military service and diagnosis in order to qualify.
Navy Veterans Lung Cancer Compensation
At the National Cancer Benefits Center, we assist Navy veterans who were exposed to government-created radiation and other toxins. We help them get monetary compensation, healthcare and other benefits for themselves and their qualifying loved ones, including children and grandchildren.
We will help you through the prequalification process to see if you meet the criteria set forth by the US Department of Veterans Affairs. Also, we will assist with document preparation, research and submitting your claim to the VA for benefits.
At the National Cancer Benefits Center, we have highly trained and compassionate counselors available to speak with you about starting a possible claim 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our success rate in helping veterans get benefits and compensation for cancer is more than 90 percent.
We would love to speak with you to start the compensation process. So, contact us at (800) 414-4328, or request more information here. Our offices are located in Florida, Arizona and Montana. Call us today or request more information by completing our online form.
