210507-N-ON977-1002 (May 7, 2021) The Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS New Hampshire (SSN 778) returns to port at Naval Station Norfolk, May 7,2021. New Hampshire returns following a deployment that supported national security interests and maritime security operations at sea. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Alfred A. Coffield)
Asbestos use was widespread in the U.S. military during the 20th century, reaching its peak during the Second World War WWII war effort, when large amounts of accessible materials were required to produce military equipment.
The Navy, in particular, used the most asbestos compared to other military branches. Ships built before the 1980s were insulated from bow to stern with this toxic material, creating a safe, fireproof environment. While effective in its purpose, this substance measure also put naval personnel at an exceedingly high risk of asbestos exposure.
Due to the widespread use of asbestos in military property — including vehicles, aircraft, ships, shipyards, and barracks — veterans, especially those from WWII and the of the Second World War, Korean, and Vietnam conflicts War, risked asbestos exposure whenever they carried out their duties. In addition to being exposed to other hazardous materials, working near asbestos-containing products may have been a supplemental risk to Arkansas veterans’ deteriorating health, as diseases due to toxic exposure are on the rise today.Â
This issue may have effects on Arkansas and Little Rock veteran communities. Arkansas hosts five military bases, adding to the value of the country’s defense. The state’s WWII military history includes Camp Robinson, once known as Camp Pike, headquarters of the Arkansas National Guard between World War I and World War II. Although it was built almost a decade after World War II ended, Little Rock Air Force Base also is integral to Arkansas military history. It was involved in the Gulf War when the base joined the war from the Middle East and European theaters.Â
Asbestos exposure permanently impacts veterans’ health
Due to their size and structure, airborne asbestos particles can remain in the air for hours when disturbed. These microscopic, sharp-edged threads are easily inhaled or ingested, making asbestos dust one of the most toxic substances humans have encountered. Once inside the body, these tiny fibers cause permanent damage to major organs and lead to devastating diseases.
One of the most horrible aspects of diseases stemming from asbestos exposure is the decades-long latency period between exposure and the first symptoms. Even if veterans had no health problems during their service, they only learn about the effects of asbestos exposure when they are diagnosed with asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer, or other severe respiratory diseases linked to exposure.
The continuous fight for health and well-being after asbestos exposure
Although decades have passed since the armed forces excessively applied asbestos, thousands of veterans who were in contact with it during their military service years now have to fight for their health. Many of them must accept the fact that their asbestos disease will shorten their life: No treatment can reverse the damage done by asbestos. Existing medical procedures can only focus on slowing the progression, relieving symptoms, and preventing complications.
With Arkansas ranking 30th in the U.S. for asbestos-related deaths, former service members should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Timely detection is crucial with asbestos-related diseases because it considerably improves treatment results and prolongs life expectancy. That is why veterans should proactively protect their health through regular health check-ups, learning about their legal rights, and promoting awareness.
Attending regular health check-ups and, while there, being open about military service and possible asbestos exposure are all essential steps. Inhaled asbestos fibers injure the lungs first, so veterans should undergo chest X-rays or CT scans and pulmonary function (breathing) tests. These tests reveal damages caused by the asbestos fibers and are reliable in diagnosing benign and malignant asbestos illnesses.
Veterans who know they’ve worked in an asbestos-contaminated environment or those who suspect they’ve been exposed to it while in the military should know their rights and options. Legal avenues and compensation programs are available to help veterans through asbestos trust funds and Veterans Affairs.Â
Veterans can play a central role in raising awareness by sharing their knowledge about asbestos exposure. By speaking about their experiences, they can help others who protected our country to gain essential knowledge about exposure.
Aside from expressing our gratitude to veterans for their service, we also have a responsibility to help protect their well-being. Bringing awareness of asbestos exposure is an integral part of this responsibility. By informing about this still-existing danger, we can ensure that those who have protected our country receive the support and care they rightly deserve.
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