Veterans Day 2025: Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Among Veterans
For much of the 20th century, asbestos was used throughout the U.S. military branches for its heat resistance and insulating properties. It could most often be found in ships, vehicles, aircraft, barracks, and bases. While it helped protect equipment, it also exposed countless service members to asbestos, a dangerous substance known to cause serious diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
Why are veterans at a higher risk?
The military relied heavily on asbestos as a durable, inexpensive, and fire-resistant material. As a result, veterans from nearly every branch (Navy, Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, and Coast Guard) may have been exposed during their service. Navy veterans are among the most frequently affected because of the extensive use of asbestos on ships.
According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), asbestos exposure was especially common among those who worked in:
- Shipyards and naval vessels – where asbestos insulated pipes, boilers, and engines
- Aircraft maintenance – involving gaskets, valves, and insulation materials
- Vehicle repair – especially when replacing brakes or clutches
- Construction and carpentry – including roofing, flooring, and cement work
- Power plants and mechanical rooms – with turbines and other heat-generating machinery
Long-term health effects
Asbestos-related diseases often take decades to appear after exposure. Many veterans who were exposed in the 1960s, 70s, or 80s are only now being diagnosed. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can lodge in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, leading to inflammation and, over time, serious illness.
Common conditions linked to asbestos exposure include:
- Mesothelioma: a rare and aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs or abdomen
- Lung cancer: which can develop even in those who never smoked
- Asbestosis: a chronic lung disease that causes scarring on lung tissue and breathing difficulties
Symptoms often appear gradually and can include shortness of breath, chest or abdominal pain, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss. Veterans who notice these symptoms should tell their healthcare providers about any possible asbestos exposure during their service.
Support and Resources for Veterans
Veterans diagnosed with asbestos-related diseases may be eligible for VA health care and disability benefits. These benefits recognize the connection between military service and asbestos exposure and can help cover treatment and related expenses.
In addition to VA benefits, veterans and their families can turn to a range of organizations and support networks that focus on asbestos-related illnesses. These groups provide education, emotional support, and guidance for navigating complex medical and benefit systems.
Raising Awareness
Every veteran deserves to understand the risks they faced in service and to receive care if those risks led to illness. Sharing information about asbestos exposure helps others recognize symptoms earlier and seek proper medical attention.
If you or a loved one served in the military and have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease, you are not alone. Learning about the connection between asbestos and military service is the first step toward getting help, treatment, and support.
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