A recently released study found that veterans and their families who stayed at Camp Lejeune between 1972 and 1985 are about 20% more likely than the average member of the population to develop numerous types of cancer. This study confirms what has already long been suspected: that people stationed at Camp Lejeune were harmed by exposure to carcinogenic toxins found in their groundwater. This study may help many veterans gain access to benefits who may have struggled before, even with legislation like the PACT Act now in place.
What Was This Study?
The study was conducted by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, and was meant to look into the potential causes and effects of problems caused by exposure to groundwater at Camp Lejeune. Between the years of 1953 and 1987, it was found that the groundwater at the Camp had been contaminated with a number of potentially dangerous chemicals. The study examined what chemicals were found in the groundwater, and the impact it may have had on soldiers stationed there.
What Did The Study Say?
According to the study, veterans and their families stationed at Camp Lejeune during the studied time period were approximately 20% more likely to develop a number of different types of cancer, compared to the general population. These cancers include thyroid, esophageal, squamous cell lung, and breast cancer, among others. These issues were traced to the presence of known carcinogenic substances found in the water, including trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE).
Why is This Study Important?
The study helps to solidify the scientific evidence between the medical problems these veterans have struggled with, and their service at Camp Lejeune. Many of the named cancers in this study are not currently on the list of presumptive conditions listed under the VA’s established presumptive status list, which have an easier time obtaining VA benefits. This, in turn, made it harder for veterans suffering from those conditions to obtain disability benefits.
What Should You Do?
If you or someone you love served at Camp Lejeune during the affected time period and suffered from serious health problems as a result, you may be entitled to VA benefits. That is why you should speak to a lawyer with experience handling VA disability applications. They can help you file for your disability rating, or help to get your disability rating improved, and ensure you get the benefits you rightfully deserve.
The attorneys of Sullivan & Kehoe place a special focus on assisting disabled veterans. Our veterans’ disability lawyers are still available for remote consultation on your legal issues. Call our office at (800) 395-7830 to schedule a consultation in our New York City, Garden City, Kings Park, Riverhead, or White Plains office, or visit our contact page.
