When you consider work hazards or military service risks, it’s natural to think only about combat trauma and physical harm. However, some health risks stay hidden for years, silently changing lives years after exposure. These hidden risks have remapped policies, fueled court battles, and left indelible scars on workers and veterans. Let’s talk more about some of these risks.
Navy Mesothelioma
When you compare veterans in the U.S., you’ll discover that Navy personnel carry a special health threat: mesothelioma, a cancer that is almost always linked to asbestos exposure. The thing is that asbestos was heavily used during the 1930s and 1980s in Navy ships for fireproofing and insulation, resulting in a number of cases of Navy mesothelioma.
When asbestos fibers are disturbed, they become airborne and can easily be inhaled. Once inhaled, they inflame and scar the lungs for decades, ultimately leading to mesothelioma. The emotional and financial cost of mesothelioma is astronomical, but help is available.
Navy veterans with mesothelioma can receive VA benefits, like monthly payments of $4,044 or more for married veterans. Taking the matter to court may also help, as legal settlements against asbestos manufacturers have paid millions of dollars to numerous families to cover medical expenses and lost wages.
If you or a loved one were in the Navy and developed mesothelioma, you need to act fast. Call the VA to seek benefits, including a free process with attorney support. Knowledgeable attorneys can also help you sue or seek trust fund awards. Similarly, resources like the mesothelioma Navy ships database allow veterans to determine if their ship used asbestos, a crucial step to building a case.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
Another medical issue that’s not always taken into consideration for veterans is post-traumatic stress disorder. PTSD is a mental disorder that develops after being exposed to something extremely traumatic during combat or a life-threatening situation.
PTSD veterans often have flashbacks or nightmares, feel anxious, or avoid environments that remind them of the trauma. They may also have difficulty sleeping, be irritable, or lose interest in activities they previously enjoyed. These symptoms may affect relationships, work, or daily life.
Noise-Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)
Imagine yourself on an assembly line, a construction site, or a military aircraft. There’s one thing in common: you’ll have to bear with heavy machinery roaring all the time. The prolonged exposure to this noise can permanently damage your hearing, resulting in a condition called NIHL, which impacts millions of workers and veterans.
The problem is that though NIHL is common, it’s a rarely talked-about affliction. The Navy personnel are especially prone to developing this condition since they have to serve in noisy settings, like aviation units or engine rooms in ships. Consistent exposure to such noise can also cause issues like tinnitus or ringing in the ears. Not only does this affect communication, but it also takes a heavy toll on a person’s mental well-being, resulting in depression and isolation.
It’s vital to know that veterans can access free hearing exams through the VA, and even receive hearing aids free of cost. Raising awareness about NIHL’s long-term effects is important too, as it encourages safer workplace practices.
Endnote
These health risks have one thing in common: delayed impact. Hearing loss, chemical exposure, and PTSD often manifest years after the damage has been done. For soldiers and workers, vigilance is paramount. Remember, regular medical examination, understanding past exposures, and the use of available resources can mean life or death in certain situations
