Mesothelioma and asbestos exposure

(The reason I am posting this item is I think it's interesting the concern from the VA concerning exposure to asbestos.  Pat was exposed to asbestos after being air-lifted from the war and returning to Ft. Bliss, Tx.  Instead of being hospitalized, he was ordered to perform a duty at a facility that was undergoing asbestos removal.  The contractors performing the asbestos removal had protective gear; the soldiers working there did not.  

Pat was air-lifted out of the war due to a severe respiratory condition, and he lost 1/3 of his pulmonary function.  However, he was still ordered to perform a duty at this facility, that was contaminated with asbestos and actively undergoing removal of the asbestos.)

Mesothelioma navy cases continue to rise, VA addresses concerns about PTSD

Thursday, January 21st, 2010

There has been a rise in concern for adequate healthcare for those returning home from service time over seas. Veteran hospitals across the country are taking a second look at the programs they offer and seeing need for more support during a soldier’s transition into civilian life.

Recognizing this void, the Syracuse VA Medical center has adopted a program in reaction to the increasing numbers of veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder. This illness in particular has inhibited many soldiers returning home from combat.

Post-traumatic stress disorder is triggered by exposure to horrifying events, which for veterans are experienced while in combat. Those with PTSD have reoccurring frightening thoughts and possible flashback memories during their time at war. This condition often effects daily functioning and makes their transition back to home-life extremely difficult.

Suffering from ailments that were caused during a soldier’s service is an unfortunate occurrence that has become more prevalent due to higher awareness. Physical harm has also been a burden that some veterans are forced to face whether it be immediately or later in life.

A form of cancer that has been widely common among veterans is mesothelioma. This aggressive disease is caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Because of asbestos’ large presence in the military, every branch was affected with airborne particles of asbestos. Navy shipyards were especially prone to then inhalation of this foreign product, since it was widely used in engine rooms and overall construction. Sadly, navy mesothelioma cases are all too common.

The Syracuse VA Medical Center is reacting to the increase of PSTD by creating a new program that gives support to not only the veterans, but the family members and care givers that are constantly challenged by the condition. Coordinator Ann Canastra emphasizes how taking care of the family will in turn better the care of veterans. The 12-week course is free and will focus on teaching family members about PTSD and ways deal with the illness and take care of themselves along the way.

This entry was posted on Thursday, January 21st, 2010 at 11:24 am and is filed under New York, News. http://www.maacenter.org/news/mesothelioma-navy-cases-continue-to-rise-va-addresses-concerns-about-ptsd.html)