Coast Guard Veterans

Mesothelioma and United States Coast Guard Veterans

After serving your country, you deserve to be cared for, too. Unfortunately, many Veterans and servicemembers developed mesothelioma and other related conditions due to their time serving their country. Veterans Affairs works to provide treatment, resources, and support for those that were diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases due to their service. U.S. Coast Guard Veterans could be at risk of developing mesothelioma. USCG Veterans exposed to asbestos may be eligible for VA benefits. USCG has one of the highest rates of mesothelioma diagnoses.

The Coast Guard serves to protect the US waterways and acts as the first responder on the water. Their six operational focuses include law enforcement, first response, safety and marine environmental protection, transportation system management, security operations, and defense operations. United States Coast Guard members and military Veterans may have been exposed to asbestos while working on bases, ships, and shipyards. This exposure to asbestos can lead to the development of mesothelioma and other health conditions.

Read on to learn more about your rights as a USCG Veteran diagnosed with lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Which Occupations Were Exposed to Asbestos?

Many branches of the military, like the army, have exposed Veterans to toxins. As a result, Veterans in the military and Navy are at risk for developing conditions such as lung cancer. Some USCG Veterans may have a higher risk of asbestos exposure than others. This is because some Coast Guard occupations worked more regularly with products that contained asbestos.

Coast Guard occupations with a higher risk of asbestos exposure include:

Boilermakers
Construction workers
Electricians
Engine specialists
Hull technicians
Insulators
Machinists
Mechanics
Pipefitters
Plumbers
Ship personnel
Shipyard workers
Steamfitters
Technicians
Welders
Woodworkers

These workers were at a higher risk for conditions like lung cancer, mesothelioma, and pulmonary fibrosis as they came in contact with asbestos products. Asbestos products used by mesothelioma Coast Guard victims include:

Adhesive
Brake pads
Ceiling tiles
Cement on pipes, boilers, and tanks
Electrical wiring
Fireproofing materials
Floor tiles
Gaskets
Insulation
Lagging
Outdoor siding
Pipe lagging
Roofing
Surfacing material
Thermal insulation
Valves

Were you in the Coast Guard? Fill out a complimentary case evaluation form today.

Case Evaluation Form

Mesothelioma Treatment for Coast Veterans

Although the military no longer uses asbestos, there are many Veterans affected by asbestos. This toxin led to the development of mesothelioma in many Veterans. Veterans with illnesses caused by their time in service are supported by Veterans Affairs (VA). The VA works hard to provide medical centers, support groups, and payments to those affected by service-related conditions. Recently, the VA has extended coverage for Veterans and their dependents through monumental legislation such as the Honoring Our PACT Act, updated VA Disability, and the Veteran Families Health Services Act.

It can be intimidating to find lung cancer treatment near you, which is why the VA offers treatment across the US. Veterans and their loved ones can access Coast Guard VA benefits by accessing treatment through medical centers near them. Some of the best VA hospitals for cancer treatment include:

Coast Guard Veterans Filing for Compensation

If you are a Veteran experiencing service-related illnesses, you are probably experiencing frustration and confusion. Unfortunately, many Veterans pass from their VA-related condition before justice can be served. If you are a loved one of a Veteran experiencing loss, you also deserve compensation and support for wrongful death.

Veterans could receive disability for mesothelioma and lung cancer if their conditions were caused by their time in service. However, applying for VA benefits can be complicated and overwhelming. Lung Cancer Center can assist Veterans and their loved ones alike in applying for VA benefits and finding high-quality treatment.

Allow our knowledgeable lawyers to help you navigate through signs and symptoms, benefits, claims, compensation, and treatment services. Get in touch with the Lung Cancer Center team today.

Coast Guard Cutters Containing Asbestos

The Coast Guard refers to its commissioned vessels as “cutters.” Most cutters are more than 200 feet in length and carry products, people, boats, and helicopters. There were specific US Coast Guard Cutters that contained or used chrysotile asbestos. The list of Coast Guard Cutters with asbestos includes: