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Mesothelioma and Veterans Benefits

Because asbestos was widely used between the 1940s to 1970s throughout military operations, many veterans have fallen victim to mesothelioma as a result of exposure to the substance. Research shows that more than 300 asbestos-based products were being used by the U.S. military, especially the Navy.

Consequently, veterans account for a sizable portion of all mesothelioma cases. Because mesothelioma can take 50 years to develop, World War II veterans have only recently started exhibiting signs of the disease, and many more cases are expected to develop.

Filing for Veterans Benefits

Mesothelioma patients who think they have developed pleural or peritoneal mesothelioma due to exposure to asbestos during their active military service may file an application for claiming veteran benefits from the VA. Several conditions must be fulfilled before the request will be approved, though. For example, the Department of Veterans Affairs requires solid evidence that the asbestos exposure occurred while the patient was in active service. It also needs definitive medical document attesting that the cancer is as likely to have been caused by asbestos as any other combination of potential factors. According to the VA, the disability should be a result of or made worse by an illness or injury that was acquired during active service duty, active duty training, or inactive duty training. Veterans wanting to claim their health and disability benefits are initially required to apply for enrollment into the veterans' benefits program at their respective regional VA office.

It is important to note that there is no guarantee the application will be accepted. In the event that the VA approves the veteran's application, the patient will be entitled to receive disability compensation. The exact amount of coverage and disability compensation awarded depends on a number of factors and is determined after approval. At this point, the veteran may receive treatment from several medical facilities all across the country.

To learn about your legal options, please fill out the form above.

V.A. Claims &Veterans Benefits