After Decades, Asbestos Still Takes its Toll on Mississippi Veterans

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News Summary

Mississippi veterans continue to face serious health risks from asbestos exposure, a silent killer linked to military service.

After Decades, Asbestos Still Takes its Toll on Mississippi Veterans

For decades, asbestos has lurked in the shadows of military history, leaving behind a devastating legacy for veterans and their families in Mississippi. The mineral, known for its remarkable durability and heat resistance, has been a silent killer since it found its way into military construction and shipbuilding as early as the 1920s. The rampant use of asbestos skyrocketed during the World War II years, extending through the Korean War and the Vietnam War, ultimately sealing the fate of countless service members who unknowingly walked into danger.

Deadly Exposure Remains a Risk

Despite regulations introduced against asbestos-containing materials in the late 1970s, the substance remains legal in the U.S. This continued presence poses serious health risks, particularly for veterans who have experienced exposure during their time of service. Asbestos exposure can lead to malignant conditions such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, diseases that disproportionately affect those who donned military uniforms. Mississippi veterans are not exempt from this grim reality, with records showing around 2,365 asbestos-related deaths in the state between 1999 and 2017.

The Impact of Military Installations

The U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force maintain a significant presence in Mississippi, particularly the Navy, which operates three installations. The Gulfport Battalion Center, a hub for construction during WWII, remains integral to the Navy’s Seabees, who continue to build vital infrastructure. Tragically, over 25,000 Seabees were exposed to toxic asbestos fibers throughout the Vietnam War era.

Naval Air Station Meridian serves as a crucial training site for jet strike operations, further immersing service members in environments fraught with asbestos. Meanwhile, Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula remains one of the largest ship producers for the U.S. Navy, employing numerous veterans who may have encountered hazardous asbestos during construction activities.

Rising Health Risks

The connection between asbestos exposure and serious health risks cannot be overstated. Mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer primarily affecting the lungs, leads to a tragic prognosis as it is often diagnosed in advanced stages. Asbestosis, another consequence of exposure, results in lung tissue scarring, progressively impairing respiratory function. As if these dangers weren’t enough, asbestos exposure also increases the likelihood of developing lung cancer, the most frequently diagnosed cancer among veterans.

While the veteran population in Mississippi has decreased by over 27% between 2012 and 2022, approximately 30% of all mesothelioma cases involve veterans. In 2022, Mississippi was home to 146,793 veterans, of whom 37% reported having a disability, a stark reminder of the lasting impact of military service.

What Can Veterans Do?

With no cure for mesothelioma and treatment primarily focused on pain relief and extending life expectancy, vigilance is critical. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) encourages veterans to undergo regular health check-ups to identify and address potential asbestos-related health issues early. Furthermore, veterans are urged to file claims related to asbestos exposure.

The introduction of the PACT Act of 2022 streamlined the claims process and reinforced the importance of addressing toxic exposure. Since the act’s passing, over 1.4 million veterans have received approval for benefits associated with toxic substances, with compensation available for service-related disabilities.

In this ongoing battle against the legacy of asbestos, it is crucial for veterans to proactively pursue their rights and protect their health. By understanding the dangers of asbestos exposure and taking advantage of available resources, Mississippi veterans can navigate the complexities of claims and healthcare, ensuring they receive the support they deserve.