Asbestos was used across all the branches of the U.S. military in building materials, machine parts, insulation, and more. This mineral was popular in the military because of its desirable qualities. Asbestos has heat, chemical, and fire-resistant qualities. This mineral has good insulating properties and is durable. However, when asbestos fibers are inhaled, these particles can cause internal damage. Asbestos exposure can result in the development of several asbestos-related illnesses, such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Research suggests that mesothelioma is the most common result of asbestos exposure in the military. Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that mainly affects the tissue layer lining the lungs. Mesothelioma has a long latency period. It can take 20 to 60 years or more for mesothelioma to develop. This means that up to 60 years or more after asbestos exposure, veterans can still develop mesothelioma.
People with veterans in their life with mesothelioma often wonder how they can support them. There are several ways to support a veteran who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma. The following are some of the ways to support a veteran with mesothelioma;
- Researching Treatment Options