Mesothelioma Veterans
The U.S. Armed Forces have historically relied on products and equipment made with asbestos during most of the 20th century, unbeknownst to the harmful effects of the mineral. This exposure affected both military personnel and citizens. Approximately 30% of all mesothelioma cases consist of military veterans.
We now know significant numbers of American troops survived combat only to succumb to a more insidious enemy on their own turf. The enemy is asbestos, a product that causes the rare and deadly cancer known as mesothelioma. Its onslaught continues today.
Although asbestos was widely used in multiple commercial applications, exposing both civilians and military personnel, veterans have been disproportionately impacted. Military veterans comprise 7% of the U.S. population, but they account for 30% of mesothelioma cases.
- Medically Reviewed By: Patricia Shelton, M.D.
- Legally Reviewed By: Jonathan Armour
- Last Modified March 17, 2023
