Asbestos Exposure in Military Bases in Illinois: Risks and Compensation

The United States Military has been one of the biggest consumers of asbestos, a mineral once commonly used for its heat-resistant properties. Asbestos exposure is known to cause various serious health problems, including mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of cancer. Illinois has several military bases, and soldiers serving on these bases are at risk of exposure to asbestos. This article will explore the risks associated with asbestos exposure in military bases in Illinois and the compensation options available to affected soldiers.

Asbestos was widely used in the construction of military bases, ships, vehicles, and aircraft before its harmful effects were fully understood. The military recognized the dangers of asbestos exposure as early as the 1930s but continued to use the mineral until the 1980s. As a result, many veterans who served during this time were exposed to asbestos and now suffer from related illnesses.

Illinois is home to several military bases, including the Great Lakes Naval Station, the Rock Island Arsenal, and the Scott Air Force Base. These bases were constructed during a time when asbestos was a common building material, and it is likely that soldiers serving on these bases were exposed to asbestos. Exposure to asbestos can occur when the mineral fibers are released into the air and inhaled, which can happen during construction, renovation, and maintenance of buildings and equipment.

Exposure to asbestos can lead to several serious health problems, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. These illnesses can take years or even decades to develop, and symptoms may not appear until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. Unfortunately, there is no known cure for mesothelioma, and treatment options are often limited. Asbestos-related illnesses can be fatal, and soldiers who were exposed to asbestos during their service may be at increased risk of developing these diseases.

Soldiers who were exposed to asbestos and later developed related illnesses may be entitled to compensation. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides disability benefits for veterans who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis as a result of their military service. Additionally, soldiers who were exposed to asbestos while serving in the military may be able to file a claim against the manufacturers of the asbestos-containing products used on military bases.