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Do You Have a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Case?
Our armed forces have put themselves in dangerous situations all across the globe in pursuit of defending America and protecting our values. Unfortunately, at Camp Lejeune, our soldiers encountered a hidden battle beneath their feet. Chemical contamination in the water supply at Camp Lejeune, South Carolina, has affected an estimated 2,000,000 people. The impact of this contamination was worsened by its concealment for nearly two decades.
If you or your loved one resided at Camp Lejeune and are now experiencing certain medical conditions, you may be eligible for compensation under the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Case. Read on to learn more about who may be eligible, qualifying medical conditions, signs and symptoms, the importance of medical attention, how to seek help and the role of a VA attorney in assisting your claim.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for any medical concerns or conditions you may have. The content herein is based on current knowledge and resources available at the time of writing and is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
What is the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Case?
The Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Case refers to the exposure of individuals to toxic chemicals in the water supply at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina from August 1, 1953, to December 31, 1987. This contamination was primarily caused by various sources, including industrial activities, improper waste disposal, leaking underground storage tanks, and nearby dry-cleaning businesses.
The main contaminants identified in the water supply were volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), along with benzene and vinyl chloride. These chemicals are known to cause serious health issues, including multiple types of cancer, leukemia, and other debilitating conditions. The exposure was exacerbated by the fact that the contamination went undetected and unaddressed for nearly three decades, allowing the harmful chemicals to reach a large number of people residing and working on the baseâ.
Who May Be Eligible?
Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022, individuals who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 cumulative days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and have been diagnosed with certain medical conditions may be eligible for benefits. This includes veterans, their family members, civilian workers, and others who were present on the base during the specified period.
Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022 is a landmark legislation that addresses the severe health impacts of water contamination at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. This contamination, which occurred between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, exposed residents and workers to harmful chemicals. The act, part of the Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, was signed into law on August 10, 2022.
Under this act, individuals who were present at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days during the specified period may be eligible to file claims for compensation if they have developed certain health conditions linked to the toxic exposure. These conditions include various cancers (such as bladder, kidney, and liver cancer), leukemia, non-Hodgkinâs lymphoma, Parkinson's disease, and other serious illnesses.
To qualify for compensation, claimants must provide evidence of their residency or employment at Camp Lejeune during the contamination period and medical documentation diagnosing them with one of the covered health conditions. This documentation might include military service records, housing records, and medical records.
Qualifying Medical Conditions
The Veterans Administration (VA) has identified eight presumptive service-connected conditions that are recognized as linked to exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.
Adult Leukemia: Various types of leukemia affecting adults, characterized by abnormal white blood cells in the bone marrow and blood, potentially linked to chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE) found in the water.
Aplastic Anemia and other Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Aplastic anemia involves a failure of the bone marrow to produce enough blood cells, while myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of disorders where blood cells do not mature properly, both conditions possibly triggered by toxic exposures.
Bladder Cancer: Cancer that develops in the tissues of the bladder, associated with prolonged exposure to carcinogens such as TCE and other contaminants.
Kidney Cancer: Cancer originating in the kidneys, with exposure to chemicals like TCE potentially increasing the risk over time.
Liver Cancer: Cancer that begins in the liver cells, possibly linked to prolonged exposure to contaminants found in the Camp Lejeune water supply.
Multiple Myeloma: A cancer of plasma cells in the bone marrow, potentially triggered by exposure to chemicals such as benzene and TCE.
Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma: A group of blood cancers arising from lymphocytes, where exposure to contaminants can disrupt the immune system and increase cancer risk.
Parkinson's Disease: A progressive neurological disorder affecting movement, possibly linked to neurotoxic chemicals like TCE and other pollutants.
These conditions are considered presumptive for veterans and certain family members who lived at Camp Lejeune during the designated exposure period and subsequently developed these health issues. The VA acknowledges the heightened risks associated with exposure to the contaminated water and provides benefits accordingly under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022.
Signs and Symptoms
Exposure to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been linked to several serious health conditions. Recognizing the signs and symptoms associated with these conditions is crucial for early detection and treatment. It is essential to consult a healthcare professional to get an official diagnosis and medical opinion. Here are some symptoms you can look for:
Bladder Cancer: Blood in urine, frequent urination, painful urination, back or pelvic pain.
Breast Cancer: Lump in the breast or underarm, change in breast shape or size, nipple discharge, skin changes on the breast.
Esophageal Cancer: Difficulty swallowing, chest pain, weight loss, chronic cough.
Female Infertility: Irregular menstrual cycles, painful periods, hormonal imbalances, difficulty conceiving.
Hepatic Steatosis (Fatty Liver Disease): Fatigue, weakness, weight loss, abdominal pain.
Kidney Cancer: Blood in urine, low back pain, unexplained weight loss, fatigue.
Leukemia: Frequent infections, unexplained bruising or bleeding, persistent fatigue, swollen lymph nodes.
Lung Cancer: Persistent cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, hoarseness.
Miscarriage: Vaginal spotting or bleeding, abdominal pain or cramping, loss of pregnancy symptoms.
Multiple Myeloma: Bone pain, frequent infections, fatigue, weight loss.
Myelodysplastic Syndromes: Shortness of breath, fatigue, unusual bruising or bleeding, frequent infections.
Neurobehavioral Effects: Memory problems, difficulty concentrating, mood changes, motor coordination issues.
Non-Hodgkinâs Lymphoma: Swollen lymph nodes, abdominal pain, chest pain, persistent fatigue.
Renal Toxicity: Changes in urination, swelling in the lower extremities, fatigue, nausea.
Scleroderma: Hardened skin, joint pain, digestive issues, Raynaud's phenomenon (fingers and toes turning white or blue in response to cold or stress).
If you suspect you might be affected by any of these conditions, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare professional can provide an accurate diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment. For further assistance, individuals can contact the Department of Veterans Affairs and legal professionals specializing in Camp Lejeune cases.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Even if you do not have one of the eight conditions officially recognized by the VA as presumptive, you may still have a case if you believe your health issues are related to Camp Lejeune water contamination. The VA's list includes conditions with established links to the contamination, but other health problems might also be associated with exposure. Consulting with a VA attorney can help you explore whether your specific health issues could be connected to the contamination and assist in evaluating your claim's viability.
Yes, certain health conditions linked to Camp Lejeune exposure can affect family members who lived on the base, even if they were not directly stationed there. This includes conditions that may not have been initially recognized but could be related to long-term exposure to contaminated water. Discussing your health concerns with a healthcare provider can help identify any possible connections, and seeking legal advice can provide guidance on whether you might be eligible for benefits or compensation.
To file a claim with the VA for Camp Lejeune exposure, you typically need:
- Military Records: Proof of honorable service showing that you were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the contamination period.
- Medical Records: Detailed records of your diagnosis, treatment, and medical history related to the condition you are claiming.
- Evidence of Presence: Documentation that confirms your residence or service at Camp Lejeune, such as base housing records or military orders. These documents help establish the connection between your health issues and your exposure to contaminated water.
Yes, there is a deadline to file a claim under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. This act, part of the broader Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act, allows individuals affected by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune to seek compensation. The deadline to file a claim is August 10, 2024. This two-year window from the date the act was signed into law is critical for those seeking legal recourse for health conditions caused by the toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune.
Compensation for Camp Lejeune cases can vary based on individual circumstances and the severity of the condition. Potential benefits may include:
- Healthcare Benefits: Coverage for medical treatments related to the conditions linked to Camp Lejeune exposure.
- Disability Compensation: Financial compensation for service-connected disabilities that impact your ability to work or perform daily activities.
- Survivor Benefits: Compensation for family members of veterans who have passed away due to conditions linked to Camp Lejeune exposure.Â
The specific amount and type of compensation will depend on your condition, the documentation provided, and the outcome of your claim.
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