Veterans and their families who were stationed at Camp Lejeune are about 70% more likely to develop Parkinson’s Disease compared to the general population, according to a recent study. This study attributes the high rate of the disease among victims of Camp Lejeune to potential exposure to trichloroethylene, a chemical commonly used in certain industrial processes. This means that veterans who suffer from Parkinson’s may be able to seek disability benefits as a result of their condition.
What Happened at Camp Lejeune?
Camp Lejeune is a military base located in Jacksonville, North Carolina, which is operated by the United States Marine Corps to help train its soldiers in amphibious assaults. It is estimated that more than 30,000 people live at Camp Lejeune at any one time, including active duty soldiers as well as their families. The base has recently been the source of controversy after it was discovered that veterans had been exposed to toxic chemicals for decades as a result of contaminated water supplies, resulting in substantial harm to everyone living there.
What is Trichloroethylene?
Trichloroethylene, also known as TCE, is a chemical commonly used in various industrial processes, primarily to help degrease metal. It is used in the manufacturing of numerous household products, including paint remover, adhesives, stain removers, and some wood finishes. It is a colorless and nonflammable liquid at room temperature, but also quickly vaporizes, and has an ether-like smell in high concentrations.
What Are the Effects of TCE?
People who are exposed to TCE can suffer from impaired reproductive function, damage to their immune systems, and may suffer from multiple types of cancer, including kidney cancer, liver cancer, and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. TCE exposure has also been tied to certain birth defects. Victims may also be at a higher risk of suffering from certain neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease.
How Could This Affect Veterans?
Thanks to this study, veterans who served at Camp Lejeune and suffer from Parkinson’s Disease may be able to obtain disability benefits for their condition. However, this may involve a complex appeals process to apply for, or appeal, your disability rating. That is why you should contact a lawyer with experience handling veterans disability claims, who can assist you in getting the benefits you 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.
