Water contamination is a global issue. A recently published report from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) shows that even after 50 years of passing the Clean Water Act, around 700,000 miles, or 51% of the waterways, are still severely polluted. There are many events where the consumption of such contaminated water has led to several diseases.
One such event is the Camp Lejeune water contamination incident in which thousands of service members and their families were exposed to toxic substances in the water supply. This article will explore the major toxic substances that caused this contamination, their effects on human health, and the long-term consequences of the contamination.
What Is Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit?
Suppose you were a veteran stationed at Camp Lejeune, and you believe your health has been compromised by exposure to toxic chemicals in the water supply. In that case, there’s good news. You may be eligible for compensation.
The Camp Lejeune Lawsuit is a legal action brought against the United States government by individuals and families affected by the water contamination at the camp.
According to the lawsuit, the United States government was negligent in failing to protect the health and safety of its citizens by allowing the contamination of the water supply at Camp Lejeune.
The lawsuit seeks compensation for those affected by the contamination and a declaration that the United States government was responsible for the contamination and should be held accountable. The lawsuit is ongoing, and a resolution is yet to be reached.
If you were stationed at Camp Lejeune between 1st August 1953 and 31st December 1987 and have faced diseases since then, you can also file your claims. Contact an experienced lawyer to help collect the required evidence and file the Camp Lejeune lawsuit.
Trichloroethylene
Trichloroethylene is a volatile organic compound (VOC) used as an industrial solvent. It’s also commonly found in paint strippers, degreasers, and cleaners. Trichloroethylene can cause acute liver damage and kidney failure if large doses are ingested or inhaled over time.
Moreover, trichloroethylene is also associated with the risk of Parkinson’s disease (PD). According to a study published on the NCBI website, it can increase the risk of developing PD. However, it is unclear at what level this toxic substance can impact the dopaminergic system. Trichloroethylene was found in high concentrations of Camp Lejeune’s drinking water supply between 1953 and 1987.
Parkinson’s disease is one of the most common neurological disorders, affecting over 8.5 million individuals worldwide, according to data from the WHO. It is also one of the most common diseases associated with water contamination at Camp Lejeune. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has listed PD as one of the presumptive diseases.
This means that if you or a loved one was stationed at Camp Lejeune in the said period and have developed PD, you don’t need to prove any other connection between the two. The law will consider this as a result of contaminated water exposure.
Benzene
Benzene is a colorless liquid that has a sweet odor. It’s used to make other chemicals, medicines, and plastics. Benzene can cause cancer in people and birth defects in humans and animals.
Benzene comes from natural sources like plants, animals, and volcanoes. But most of the benzene in the environment comes from man-made sources like cars, factories, and refineries. Even cigarettes and cigarette smoke contains traces of benzene.
Benzene exposure can increase the risk for non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, another presumptive disease associated with Camp Lejeune water contamination. An article is published in The Lancet journal. The article is a meta-review analysis of multiple studies showing the connection between benzene and non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma. The analysis indicates that benzene can increase the risk by 33%.
Perchloroethylene
Perchloroethylene, also known as tetrachloroethylene, is used in dry cleaning, metal degreasing, and paint stripping. It was also found in large quantities at Camp Lejeune. Exposure to perchloroethylene can cause damage to the liver, kidneys, and central nervous system.
In addition to the cancers linked to this toxin, it can also cause birth defects, reproductive problems, and fertility issues for men or women. If not cancers, miscarriages or stillbirths are also a concern after being exposed during pregnancy.
Vinyl Chloride
Vinyl chloride has been linked to liver damage, human reproductive problems, and cancer. According to the cancer.gov website, vinyl chloride can lead to liver, brain, and lung cancers. It can also cause leukemia. This is also true in terms of the Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has found vinyl chloride in the environment and food at levels that can harm human health. Vinyl chloride is not found naturally in water supplies or food sources but can be produced by industrial processes such as making PVC plastic.
How Can You File a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit?
If you believe that you have suffered harm due to the contamination of the water supply at Camp Lejeune, you may be able to file a lawsuit seeking damages. There are several steps you can take to file a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit:
- Gather evidence: To support your claim, you will need to provide evidence of your exposure to the contaminated water and any harm you have suffered. This may include medical records, military records, and other documents.
- Consult with an attorney: It is a good idea to speak with an attorney with experience handling Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuits. They can help you understand your legal options and advise you on the best action.
- Determine the appropriate legal action: Several types of legal actions may be available to you, including individual lawsuits, class action lawsuits, and claims filed under the Military Claims Act. Your attorney can help you determine your situation’s most appropriate legal action.
- File your lawsuit: Once you have gathered the necessary evidence and determined the appropriate legal action, you can file your lawsuit in a court with jurisdiction over your claim.
It is important to remember that the statute of limitations for filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit may vary depending on the state in which you reside and the specific circumstances of your case. You should consult with an attorney as soon as possible to ensure you do not miss the deadline for filing your claim.
Recommended How to Keep Your House Foundation from Water Damage: Weatherproofing Tips
Conclusion
The water at Camp Lejeune has been contaminated with toxic substances since the 1950s. People stationed at the base and their families were exposed to these chemicals, leading to various illnesses. Suppose you or someone close to you has been affected by these harmful chemicals.
In that case, you should consider filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit to help cover treatment costs and other expenses related to treatment.
Discover more from Today Headline
Subscribe to get the latest posts to your email.