Given the widespread use of asbestos products in the military, millions of veterans were exposed to potentially life threatening levels of asbestos from World War I through the early 1980s. Since asbestos-related cancers and diseases, specifically mesothelioma, cannot be detected until years after the initial exposure, many veterans are just now recognizing their symptoms as asbestos-related.
Depending on the level and length of an individual's exposure, symptoms will likely vary from person to person. As previous cases have shown, veterans working aboard ships and in shipyards typically have more profound symptoms than a base secretary or pilot. Regardless of exposure levels, it is important to be aware of your symptoms as they may turn out to be more serious than initially anticipated.
With symptoms often bearing a resemblance to the effects of the flu, pneumonia or bronchitis, it is common for individuals to go two to six months before seeking medical attention. This significant delay in addressing the cause of the symptoms is extremely detrimental to a proper diagnosis and treatment efforts.
If you are a veteran and are experiencing any of these symptoms or have a loved one who was in the military and is suffering, please contact a physician as soon as possible. For a proper diagnosis, it is essential to tell your doctor all of your symptoms and full military exposure facts as they may well be pertinent to your diagnosis.