The Marine Corps base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina has been the site of repeated contamination by toxic chemicals, most recently with the discovery of a chemical that causes cancer. From 1953 to 1987, the water supply at Camp Lejeune was contaminated with a volatile organic compound called trichloroethylene (TCE), amongst various other chemicals. Children and adults stationed at the base during this time have been found to have higher rates of cancer and other diseases due to this exposure. This is a tragic example of how pollution can cause serious health problems for people who are exposed to it.
What To Know
People at the base may have been exposed to TCE through contaminated drinking water and vapor that was emitted from storage tanks. Many servicemembers drank contaminated water from the base wells without any knowledge of the contamination or its effects on their health. Exposure to these contaminants can cause a variety of health problems, including birth defects, organ damage, cancer, kidney problems, and even death.
If you or a family member were stationed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor about your medical history and consider testing for the presence of TCE in your blood. A blood test is the only reliable way to determine if you have been exposed and is the recommended course of action for people who have been exposed.
Types of Cancers Linked To Camp Lejeune Exposure
The most common types of cancer found among those affected by this exposure are bladder, kidney, lung, and breast cancer among those exposed. Other cancers, such as leukemia and prostate cancer, are also seen among those who served at Camp Lejeune.
Not all people who served at the base will develop cancer due to exposure to these compounds; however, there is a significant risk for those who were exposed to large amounts of TCE and other toxic chemicals in the water. It is estimated that as many as 300,000 service members and their families could have been exposed to these chemicals during their time at the base.
Legal Options For Those Affected
People who were stationed at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 may be eligible for benefits through the Department of Veterans Affairs due to their exposure to harmful chemicals. If you or a loved one was stationed at Camp Lejeune during this time period and has been diagnosed with cancer or other medical conditions, you may be eligible for compensation through the VA if you meet certain criteria. In order to apply for benefits, you will need a copy of your military service record as well as records related to any medical treatment you received related to your illness. You will also need to obtain a medical diagnosis from a doctor who has determined that your medical condition is related to your exposure to harmful chemicals at Camp Lejeune.
Hiring a personal attorney can be a valuable resource for helping you navigate the claims process and making the application easier. An experienced lawyer can also help you get the medical documentation you need to prove your claim and help you obtain a meaningful settlement.
They can also help you file a personal injury lawsuit if your claim is denied or if a settlement is not reached with VA. Additionally, an attorney can help you seek damages for any pain and suffering you have experienced as a result of your injuries.
Most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation to discuss your case and determine if it is in your best interests to file a claim. Contact a local personal injury attorney in your area today to learn more about your rights and legal options if you are suffering from an illness caused by exposure to harmful chemicals at Camp Lejeune.
Conclusion
Tragedies like Camp Lejeune can leave families reeling and unsure of where to turn for help. If you are struggling to cope with the financial and emotional impact of your loss, it is important to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who can help guide you through the claims process and help you get justice for the crimes committed against you.
Water contamination at Camp Lejeune has caused serious illness and even death to hundreds of soldiers and their families. Understanding your options and determining your best course of action can help you move forward and work towards a brighter future for you and your family.