Last Updated on July 22, 2023 by
Water contamination at Camp Lejeune has long been a source of anger and frustration for the people who live there. For decades, military officials have denied any link between the contamination and health problems suffered by residents. They have largely ignored the extensive scientific evidence pointing to contaminated drinking water’s dangers. But finally, the truth is being acknowledged.
What Happened At Camp Lejeune?
From 1953 to 1987, thousands of people lived and worked at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. Many of these people were young, healthy, and active soldiers who were looking forward to starting a new chapter in their lives when they returned from deployment. Unfortunately, many of them did not get the chance to start their new lives as planned. Instead, they and their families were forced to deal with the terrible consequences of exposure to toxic chemicals in the water at camp.
Effects of Drinking Water Contamination
The chemicals used at the military base included trichloroethylene (TCE), tetrachloroethylene (PCE), vinyl chloride, arsenic trioxide, and diesel exhaust. Exposure to these chemicals can have devastating effects on the human body. It can cause nausea, headaches, hair loss, insomnia, and much more. Children are especially vulnerable because they are more susceptible to illness than adults.
Trichloroethylene is a solvent that is widely used in industry and in the production of paint removers. It is very toxic and can damage the liver, kidneys, and brain. It can also cause reproductive problems and even result in extreme death.
PCE is another chemical that is used in a number of industrial processes. It is also used in the production of solvents and as a degreasing agent. Vinyl chloride is another common industrial chemical that is used in the production of plastics, resins, adhesives, and more. It is an endocrine disruptor and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer and birth defects.
Arsenic trioxide is used as a pesticide and fungicide to control disease and prevent crop damage. It can also contaminate drinking water, and excessive exposure can lead to severe kidney damage and even death. Diesel exhaust contains toxic compounds known as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or PAHs. These chemicals have been linked to cancer and other serious health conditions.
Exposure to some of these chemicals can result in minor health effects such as nausea or headaches. More severe cases can result in serious illness or even death. Scientists are still trying to determine the full extent of the damage caused by the contamination at Camp Lejeune. However, contaminated water led to serious health problems for many military members and their families.
Legal Options
Personal injury lawyers are available to assist those who have suffered injuries or sicknesses due to drinking contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. They can help with everything from filing a lawsuit to obtaining compensation for medical expenses and loss of income. A personal injury lawyer can help to ensure that all claims are handled properly and provide the best possible chance of a favorable outcome for the client.
Because of the length of time, this has been going on, some individuals may have passed away due to illnesses caused by exposure to Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water. In these situations, a lawyer may be able to help family members bring a wrongful death claim against the government. These claims are not restricted to military personnel and are also available for those who have served at the Marine base but were not stationed at Lejeune itself.
Suppose you or a loved one has suffered an illness or other health condition that you think may have been caused by exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. In that case, you should seek the advice of an attorney immediately. An experienced lawyer can help you determine whether you have a valid claim and can help you obtain compensation for your injuries.
Conclusion
Water contaminated with chemical waste from leaking fuel tanks at Camp Lejeune is to blame for thousands of cases of deadly diseases in former Marines and their families. Some of these diseases, such as breast cancer and leukemia, can take years to develop after exposure, giving those affected little time to sue for compensation. Hiring a lawyer with experience in water contamination cases can be a good way to help former service members and their families obtain the compensation they deserve for their losses.
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