Guide to Asbestos Trust Fund Claims - (800) 291-0963
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Free Mesothelioma Consultation 800.291.0963
Civilian Contractors Asbestos Exposure
Exploring - Asbestos Exposure and Civilian Contractors
Thousands of U.S. civilian contractors who supported military bases, shipyards, and infrastructure projects were unknowingly exposed to asbestos on the job. These workers helped construct and maintain facilities, ships, power plants, and housing units that contained asbestos in insulation, pipe wrap, tiles, cement, and more. Decades later, many have developed diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, or asbestosis. This page outlines the history of exposure, common job sites, and legal rights for contractors affected by asbestos-related illnesses.
History of Asbestos Exposure for Civilian Contractors
From the 1940s through the late 1980s, civilian contractors played a critical role in military and federal projects that used asbestos-containing materials. Whether working at naval shipyards, Army bases, VA hospitals, or defense construction zones, these workers were routinely exposed to airborne asbestos fibers.
Most had no protective equipment or warning about the risks. Since asbestos-related diseases take 20–50 years to develop, many former contractors are just now facing devastating diagnoses.
Common Places of Asbestos Exposure for Civilian Contractors
Civilian workers were exposed to asbestos across a wide range of duties and federal job sites:
- Military Base Construction: Contractors built and renovated barracks, mess halls, and housing using asbestos-containing insulation, floor tiles, and drywall.
- Shipyards & Dry Docks: Pipefitters, welders, and electricians encountered asbestos in ships’ boiler rooms, hulls, and gaskets.
- VA Hospitals & Federal Buildings: Maintenance workers replaced ceilings, flooring, and HVAC systems where asbestos was present.
- Power & Water Plants: Civilian engineers handled asbestos-laced turbines, valves, and insulation around boilers and piping.
- Defense Projects & Airfields: Runway construction and hangar repair crews worked around asbestos-based fireproofing and cement board.
- Manufacturing & Depot Facilities: Mechanics and operators faced exposure from asbestos brake linings, seals, and machinery insulation.
⚙️ How Do You Prove Asbestos Exposure as a U.S. Civilian Contractor?
Even if you were not enlisted, civilian contractors who worked on military projects often faced the same exposure risks as active-duty personnel. These exposures can qualify for compensation through lawsuits, asbestos trust funds, or VA-related claims (if supporting federal installations).
✅ Common Ways to Prove Exposure:
- Employment records showing work on federal contracts, base construction, or shipyard maintenance
- Project logs or site reports confirming use of asbestos materials (insulation, cement, tile)
- Medical diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestos-related cancer by a licensed physician
- Co-worker affidavits describing the presence of asbestos on shared job sites
- Military installation assignments that confirm proximity to asbestos-prone areas
- Help from asbestos attorneys to match work history with known asbestos manufacturers
🧾 Who Among U.S. Civilian Contractors Is Eligible for Asbestos Trust Funds or Lawsuits?
Civilian workers diagnosed with asbestos-related illnesses may qualify for multiple forms of compensation—even if exposure happened decades ago. These include asbestos bankruptcy trust fund claims, personal injury lawsuits, and more.
✅ You may be eligible if:
- You worked before 1990 on military or government-funded construction, ship repair, or industrial maintenance
- You were exposed to asbestos insulation, joint compound, fireproofing, or piping materials
- You’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos lung cancer, or asbestosis
- You handled materials on Navy ships, military bases, or VA hospital renovations
- A loved one passed away due to an asbestos-related illness from their contracting work
Contractors frequently qualify for multiple legal claims and trust fund settlements.
👨👩👧 Benefits Available for Civilian Contractor Families
Surviving spouses and children of deceased contractors may qualify for wrongful death compensation or support through asbestos-related legal actions.
✅ Civilian Families May Qualify For:
- Wrongful death settlements from asbestos product manufacturers
- Funeral reimbursement through trust fund claims or settlements
- Secondhand exposure claims for spouses or children who handled dusty work clothes
- No-cost legal help to file asbestos trust fund claims or lawsuits
- Monthly financial support to offset loss of income from deceased loved ones
📞 If you or someone in your family worked as a U.S. Civilian Contractor and developed mesothelioma or another asbestos disease, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Free consultations. No legal fees unless you win
Why Choose Us?
25 Years Working With Civilian Contractors!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Civilian Contractors - Asbestos Products
Exploring - Common Asbestos Products Used by Civilian Contractors
Civilian contractors, especially those working in construction, insulation, and shipbuilding, were exposed to asbestos-containing products for many years. Asbestos was widely used due to its excellent fireproofing, insulation, and heat resistance properties. Many contractors were unknowingly exposed to asbestos fibers while working with or around these materials, which later contributed to serious health conditions such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Below are the 12 most commonly used asbestos products in civilian contracting.
1. Asbestos Insulation
Used for insulating pipes, boilers, and other heat-sensitive components in construction and industrial projects. Workers were exposed when installing or removing this insulation.
2. Asbestos-Cement Sheets
Used in roofing, siding, and flooring materials, particularly for their durability and fire resistance. Workers were exposed during installation or demolition.
3. Asbestos-Containing Tiles
Asbestos was used in floor tiles, which were often disturbed during renovations or demolitions. Contractors were exposed during these activities.
4. Asbestos Pipes
Asbestos was used to insulate pipes, especially in industrial and commercial buildings. Contractors were exposed when handling, installing, or repairing these pipes.
5. Asbestos Gaskets
Gaskets made from asbestos were used in machinery, boilers, and piping systems for sealing purposes. Workers were exposed during installation or repair of these gaskets.
6. Asbestos-Containing Fireproofing
Asbestos was applied in fireproofing materials used on structural steel, walls, and ceilings in buildings. Contractors were exposed during installation and later maintenance work.
7. Asbestos Brake Pads
Asbestos-containing brake pads were widely used in vehicles, particularly in heavy machinery and industrial vehicles. Workers exposed themselves during installation, maintenance, or repair.
8. Asbestos Siding
Used in residential and commercial buildings for its durability and fire resistance. Contractors were exposed when cutting, installing, or removing asbestos siding.
9. Asbestos Wallboard
Asbestos was used in wallboard and drywall materials for added fire resistance. Contractors exposed themselves during installation, cutting, or demolition.
10. Asbestos Caulking
Asbestos was used in caulking materials for sealing joints in windows and doors, particularly in older buildings. Workers were exposed when applying or removing this material.
11. Asbestos Roofing Materials
Asbestos was used in roofing shingles and roll roofing due to its fire-resistant properties. Contractors were exposed during installation or repair work.
12. Asbestos Textured Paint
Used for fireproofing and decoration, asbestos-containing textured paint was applied to walls and ceilings. Contractors were exposed during application or scraping of old layers.
Why Choose Us?
25 Years Working With Civilian Contractors!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Civilian Contractor Personnel With Asbestos Exposure
Exploring - Civilian Contractors and Asbestos Exposure
Civilian contractor personnel working on military bases, construction sites, and other industrial projects frequently encountered asbestos exposure. Asbestos was used in a wide variety of materials and products due to its heat resistance, fireproofing, and insulating properties. Unfortunately, the widespread use of asbestos in construction, machinery, and vehicles led to dangerous exposure for civilian contractors during their work on projects that involved asbestos-containing materials. Below is a list of the personnel most exposed to asbestos during their work as civilian contractors.
1. Construction Workers
Construction workers employed as civilian contractors were exposed to asbestos during the construction, demolition, and renovation of military bases, infrastructure, and public works projects. They were exposed when handling asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, floor tiles, ceiling materials, and cement, especially in older buildings and structures.
2. Heavy Equipment Operators
Heavy equipment operators working with bulldozers, excavators, and cranes were at high risk of asbestos exposure due to the presence of asbestos in brake linings, gaskets, and insulation in the machinery they operated. Contractors were exposed during routine maintenance or repairs on construction equipment and vehicles.
3. Vehicle Maintenance Crews
Personnel responsible for maintaining and repairing vehicles, including trucks, jeeps, and construction machinery, were exposed to asbestos-containing brake pads, clutches, and engine insulation. Routine servicing and repairs put contractors at risk when dealing with asbestos-laden components in older vehicles and machinery.
4. Paving and Road Construction Crews
Workers involved in road construction, paving, and asphalt operations were exposed to asbestos in the construction materials used, such as asphalt containing asbestos, as well as in the heavy machinery like pavers and rollers. Contractors working with these materials were at significant risk of inhaling asbestos fibers during construction projects.
5. Engineers and Inspectors
Engineers and inspectors working as civilian contractors on construction projects were exposed to asbestos when inspecting or overseeing the renovation of buildings, vehicles, or machinery containing asbestos materials. The risk was particularly high during the inspection, demolition, or renovation of older buildings that still contained asbestos-based components.
6. Laborers
Laborers working on construction and renovation projects were exposed to asbestos when handling or working around asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation, tiles, and cement. These materials were commonly found in older buildings and structures, particularly in military and government facilities that were being renovated or demolished.
7. Plumbers
Plumbers working as civilian contractors were exposed to asbestos in pipe insulation and plumbing systems, particularly in older facilities. The installation, removal, or repair of asbestos-insulated pipes frequently led to asbestos exposure, especially when working in confined spaces where asbestos was used for heat resistance.
8. Electricians
Electricians working as civilian contractors encountered asbestos when working with electrical systems and components, particularly when insulating wires or dealing with fireproofing around electrical equipment. Contractors were exposed to harmful asbestos fibers during the installation or repair of electrical components in older buildings and facilities.
9. Demolition Workers
Demolition workers responsible for dismantling older structures were exposed to asbestos when disturbing or removing asbestos-containing materials such as insulation, flooring, and roofing. These workers were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure, particularly when dealing with degraded materials during demolition or renovation projects.
10. Maintenance Workers
Maintenance personnel employed by civilian contractors were exposed to asbestos during the repair work on older buildings, vehicles, and machinery. Exposure occurred when asbestos materials, such as floor tiles, heating system insulation, and roofing, were disturbed during maintenance and repairs.
11. Firefighters and Safety Personnel
Firefighters and safety personnel working as civilian contractors were exposed to asbestos in fireproofing materials used in construction. They were at risk during firefighting or training exercises when dealing with older buildings and materials that contained asbestos, as well as when handling or removing asbestos-laden fireproofing materials in buildings or vehicles.
12. Roofers
Roofers working as civilian contractors on military or industrial buildings were exposed to asbestos in roofing materials, particularly in older buildings. Exposure occurred when removing or replacing asbestos-containing roofing materials, which were widely used in military bases and industrial facilities for heat resistance and durability.
Each of these civilian contractor personnel was exposed to asbestos during their work, leading to significant health risks, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The widespread use of asbestos in building materials, machinery, and vehicles made these workers particularly vulnerable to asbestos-related diseases.
Find Out if You Qualify Today!
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Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Civilian Contractor Aircraft With Asbestos Exposure
Exploring – Aircraft Maintained or Operated by Civilian Contractors That Contained Asbestos
Civilian contractors who worked on or operated aircraft—particularly in maintenance, inspection, or aviation support—were often exposed to asbestos through various aircraft components. Asbestos was valued for its fire resistance and durability, making it common in brake systems, gaskets, insulation, and engine parts. Unfortunately, this resulted in serious health risks for those who maintained, repaired, or refurbished these planes.
1. Fixed-Wing Propeller Aircraft
Many older piston-engine planes used asbestos in gaskets, exhaust insulation, and heat shields. Contractors performing engine maintenance or replacements were frequently exposed during part removal or repair.
2. Helicopters
Civilian helicopters—especially those used in logging, offshore work, or EMS—commonly had asbestos in engine insulation, rotor brake systems, and heat-resistant panels. Exposure was common during maintenance or system overhauls.
3. Corporate Jets
Private jets often contained asbestos in cockpit insulation, cabin walls, and even in flooring or lavatory construction. Contractors performing luxury upgrades or repairs disturbed asbestos materials during interior work.
4. Training Aircraft
Planes used by flight schools or civilian defense contractors had asbestos in brake pads, engine insulation, and control panel heat barriers. These aircraft saw high use, meaning more frequent repairs and increased exposure.
5. Agricultural Aircraft (Crop Dusters)
These rugged planes, used for pesticide spraying, often contained asbestos in engine compartments, brakes, and pump insulation. Maintenance crews faced exposure while replacing gaskets or cleaning systems.
6. Cargo and Freight Planes
Converted freight aircraft—often from older commercial or military sources—contained asbestos in brakes, wiring insulation, and fireproof cargo bay linings. Civilian contractors encountered these materials during upgrades and retrofits.
7. Firefighting Aircraft
Air tankers used for wildfire control often had asbestos-laden insulation in engine areas and water tanks to withstand high temperatures. Contractors exposed these fibers during emergency modifications or system repairs.
8. Gliders and Tow Planes
While gliders themselves rarely had asbestos, the tow planes did. These often contained asbestos in heat shields and brake pads, exposing maintenance crews working on older aircraft.
9. Grounded Aircraft Used for Parts
Retired aircraft salvaged for components frequently contained asbestos in undisturbed systems. Contractors stripping these planes risked exposure through sanding, cutting, or handling degraded materials.
10. Airport Maintenance Equipment (Support Systems)
Power carts, mobile generators, and HVAC units used to service planes often had asbestos insulation or wiring. Contractors working on these systems faced exposure during routine electrical or mechanical work.
11. Long-Term Health Effects
These various aircraft and support systems contributed to high levels of asbestos exposure among civilian contractors. This exposure—particularly common before the 1980s—has led to serious health consequences such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, often years after the initial contact.
Find Out if You Qualify Today!
Talk to a Real Live Person!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Civilian Contractor Vehicles With Asbestos Exposure
Exploring - Vehicles Used by Civilian Contractors with Asbestos Exposure
Civilian contractors frequently worked with various types of vehicles that contained asbestos components, especially those used in construction, transportation, and heavy machinery. Asbestos was used extensively for its fire-resistant, heat-insulating, and durable properties, but it posed significant health risks to workers who were exposed during maintenance, repairs, and operation of these vehicles. Below are some common vehicles used by civilian contractors with asbestos exposure.
1. Construction Trucks
Construction trucks, including dump trucks, cement mixers, and flatbeds, often contained asbestos components. Workers were exposed to asbestos during brake maintenance, clutch repairs, and other mechanical work on older trucks, particularly when dealing with asbestos-containing brake pads, gaskets, and insulation.
2. Cranes
Cranes used in construction and heavy lifting often had asbestos in their brake systems, clutch components, and insulation. Crane operators and maintenance crews were exposed to asbestos during the repair or replacement of asbestos-laden brake pads and clutch parts, which were critical for lifting heavy loads on construction sites.
3. Excavators
Excavators used for digging and heavy lifting in construction projects contained asbestos in their mechanical systems, including the brakes, clutches, and insulation materials. Workers handling these excavators were exposed during repairs and maintenance, particularly when dealing with asbestos brake linings and engine insulation.
4. Bulldozers
Bulldozers, which are essential in construction and earth-moving tasks, often contained asbestos in their brake systems, clutches, and engine insulation. Civilian contractors were exposed during the replacement or repair of asbestos-containing parts, particularly in older models that still used these materials.
5. Forklifts
Forklifts used in warehouses and construction sites contained asbestos in their brake systems, wiring insulation, and clutch components. Workers were exposed to asbestos when maintaining or repairing these vehicles, particularly when handling older models that still used asbestos-based components in their machinery.
6. Backhoes
Backhoes, commonly used for digging and trenching in construction projects, had asbestos in their brake pads, insulation, and clutch systems. Contractors working on backhoe maintenance were exposed when repairing or replacing asbestos-containing parts, particularly in older vehicles.
7. Rollers
Road rollers and asphalt compactors used by civilian contractors often contained asbestos in their brake systems, clutch components, and insulation. Workers were exposed to asbestos during the repair and maintenance of these vehicles, particularly in older models that still used asbestos-laden components.
8. Trenchers
Trenchers used to dig trenches for utilities and other construction purposes often contained asbestos in brake pads and engine components. Civilian contractors were exposed during maintenance and repairs of trenchers, particularly when handling older machinery with asbestos-based parts.
9. Generators
Generators used by civilian contractors on job sites for power supply contained asbestos in insulation and wiring. Maintenance personnel were exposed to asbestos when working on the electrical systems, insulation, or exhaust components of these generators, particularly older models that used asbestos for heat resistance.
10. Concrete Pump Trucks
Concrete pump trucks used by contractors for transferring concrete often had asbestos in the engine insulation, brakes, and clutch systems. Contractors were exposed to asbestos when maintaining or repairing these vehicles, especially during brake pad replacements and clutch system repairs.
11. Military Surplus Vehicles
Military surplus vehicles used by civilian contractors often contained asbestos in the braking systems, clutches, and insulation materials. Workers who maintained and repaired these vehicles were exposed to asbestos when working with older models that still had asbestos components in their mechanical systems.
12. Mobile Work Units
Mobile work units, including construction trailers and mobile offices, often had asbestos in their roofing, insulation, and flooring. Civilian contractors were exposed during the maintenance or renovation of these vehicles, especially when removing or replacing asbestos-containing materials during routine repairs or upgrades.
Each of these vehicles used by civilian contractors contained asbestos products that contributed to significant exposure during maintenance, repair, and operational tasks. These exposures have led to a variety of asbestos-related health conditions, including mesothelioma and asbestosis, in contractors working with these vehicles.
Find Out if You Qualify Today!
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Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Civilian Contractors Mesothelioma Medical Information
Important Medical Information for Civilian Contractors Experiencing Symptoms of Asbestos Exposure
Civilian contractors who are experiencing symptoms of asbestos exposure need to be aware of several important medical details to help them manage their health and take appropriate actions. Asbestos exposure can lead to serious diseases such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Here are the most crucial medical considerations for these contractors:
What is Mesothelioma?
...And how does it develop from asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. These fibers become trapped in the lungs or abdominal cavity, leading to inflammation, scarring, and eventually the formation of cancerous tumors. Mesothelioma can take decades to appear, often not showing up until 20-50 years after exposure.
What is Asbestos Lung Cancer?
...And how does it develop from asbestos exposure?
Asbestos lung cancer is a type of cancer caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. These fibers become lodged in the lungs, leading to irritation, scarring, and the eventual development of cancerous cells. It can take decades for symptoms to appear, often not showing up until 20-50 years after initial exposure.
Common Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Diseases
Civilian contractors exposed to asbestos should be vigilant for the following symptoms, which could indicate the onset of asbestos-related diseases:
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Chronic cough or a persistent dry cough
- Chest pain or tightness
- Fatigue or feeling unusually tired
- Unexplained weight loss or loss of appetite
- Fluid buildup in the chest (pleural effusion)
- Wheezing or other breathing difficulties
- Coughing up blood in some cases
Diseases Linked to Asbestos Exposure
Civilian contractors should be aware of the key diseases caused by asbestos exposure:
- Mesothelioma: A rare and aggressive cancer that affects the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), or heart (pericardium). Mesothelioma often develops 20-50 years after exposure.
- Lung Cancer: Asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, particularly for those who smoked or have a history of smoking. Symptoms of lung cancer include persistent coughing and chest pain.
- Asbestosis: A chronic lung disease caused by the scarring of lung tissue due to long-term asbestos exposure. It leads to breathing difficulties, persistent coughing, and chest pain.
Diagnostic Procedures
Civilian contractors experiencing symptoms should consult a healthcare professional who will conduct a thorough examination. Common diagnostic procedures include:
- Chest X-rays: To detect any signs of fluid, lung damage, or other abnormalities.
- CT Scans: High-resolution CT scans are often used to detect asbestos-related lung diseases and mesothelioma.
- Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): These tests measure how well the lungs are working and help determine if there's any breathing impairment due to asbestos exposure.
- Biopsy: If mesothelioma is suspected, a biopsy of the tissue is necessary to confirm the diagnosis. This involves removing a small sample of the affected tissue for analysis.
- Blood Tests: Certain markers in the blood, such as elevated levels of the protein mesothelin, may help diagnose mesothelioma.
Importance of Early Diagnosis
Early diagnosis of asbestos-related diseases is crucial for improving prognosis and treatment outcomes. Civilian contractors who have been exposed to asbestos should seek medical attention immediately if they experience any of the symptoms listed above, even if they were exposed decades ago.
Treatment Options
If a civilian contractor is diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, treatment options vary depending on the type of disease and its progression:
- Mesothelioma Treatment: This may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments. Newer treatments like immunotherapy are also being explored.
- Lung Cancer Treatment: Treatment may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
- Asbestosis Treatment: Although there is no cure for asbestosis, treatments focus on managing symptoms. These may include oxygen therapy, medications to reduce inflammation, and pulmonary rehabilitation.
Find Out if You Qualify Today!
Talk to a Real Live Person!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
FAQs About Asbestos Exposure and Civilian Contractors
What is asbestos, and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in civilian contractor facilities and equipment for its heat resistance, insulation, and fireproofing properties. While these qualities made it ideal for construction, industrial, and military applications, asbestos becomes dangerous when its microscopic fibers are inhaled. Over time, these fibers cause severe health issues, including mesothelioma, a rare cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, and lung cancer. These diseases can develop decades after exposure, often making it difficult for civilian contractors to receive an early diagnosis.
What are the risks of asbestos exposure for Civilian Contractors?
Civilian contractors were often exposed to asbestos while working in construction, shipyards, power plants, and maintenance facilities. Asbestos was commonly used in insulation, boilers, gaskets, pipes, and other components of equipment. Contractors working in industrial settings like shipyards or construction sites during maintenance or repair were particularly at risk due to the widespread use of asbestos-containing materials. Prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can lead to mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other serious respiratory conditions. Symptoms of these diseases may take decades to appear, often resulting in late diagnoses.
What is mesothelioma, and how does it develop from asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer caused by the inhalation of asbestos fibers. These fibers become trapped in the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), or heart (pericardium), causing inflammation, scarring, and eventually the formation of cancerous tumors. Mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to develop after the initial asbestos exposure, which means many civilian contractors may not receive a diagnosis until decades after their work in construction or industrial settings.
How can I tell if I’m experiencing symptoms of asbestos exposure?
Civilian contractors exposed to asbestos should be vigilant for the following symptoms, which may indicate the onset of asbestos-related diseases:
- Persistent or chronic coughing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing or other breathing difficulties
- Coughing up blood in some cases
If you notice any of these symptoms, it is important to consult a doctor immediately. Early detection can improve treatment options and outcomes.
What should I do if I’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure, it is crucial to:
- Seek legal advice: Consult with an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation to explore your legal options for compensation, including mesothelioma lawsuits.
- Document your work history: Keep a detailed record of your time working as a civilian contractor, including areas where you may have been exposed to asbestos (e.g., construction sites, shipyards, power plants, etc.).
- Look into treatment options: Discuss with your doctor about treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, and consider seeking a second opinion if necessary.
- Join a support group: Support groups for individuals affected by asbestos-related diseases can offer emotional, practical, and legal support.
Can Civilian get compensation for asbestos exposure?
Yes, civilian contractors who were exposed to asbestos during their work may be eligible for compensation. This compensation can be sought through various channels, including workers' compensation, asbestos trust funds, and personal injury lawsuits. Contractors diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure can receive compensation to help cover medical treatment, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Are there asbestos trust funds available for Civilian Contractors?
Yes, many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established asbestos trust funds to compensate victims. Civilian contractors exposed to asbestos during their work can file claims with these funds to receive compensation for their illnesses. An attorney specializing in asbestos-related cases can assist in guiding you through the claims process and ensuring that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure?
Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after initial asbestos exposure. This long latency period means that civilian contractors may not be diagnosed until many years after their work in potentially hazardous environments. Early recognition of symptoms is essential for effective treatment. If you have been exposed to asbestos, even decades ago, it is important to stay vigilant about your health and consult a healthcare professional if symptoms arise.
Civilian Contactors Asbestos Exposure
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a rare cancer tied to asbestos exposure, typically affects individuals aged 55-75, often diagnosed decades after their initial contact with this dangerous substance.
Mesothelioma Treatments
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
The three primary treatments for Mesothelioma include surgery to remove tumors, radiation therapy to target cancer cells, and chemotherapy to help shrink and control the disease.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Women and Mesothelioma
Ninety percent of Mesothelioma patients initially report experiencing shortness of breath as their primary symptom, often signaling the presence of this aggressive asbestos-related cancer.
Women and Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Women and Mesothelioma
Women diagnosed with mesothelioma, often due to work-related asbestos exposure, represent a growing percentage of cases, with hundreds diagnosed annually in the U.S.
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
The life expectancy for mesothelioma patients varies but typically ranges from 12 to 21 months after diagnosis, depending on factors like age, health, and stage of cancer at detection.
Asbestos Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer, as inhaled fibers can cause long-term damage to lung tissues, leading to cancer years after exposure.
Mesothelioma Legal Information
Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Asbestos Trust Fund List
Mesothelioma lawsuits allow victims of asbestos exposure to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain by holding negligent companies accountable.
Asbestos Trust Fund List
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Asbestos Trust Fund List
There are more than 6 Asbestos Trust Funds with $32 Billion Available For qualified claimants.
Find out if you qualify in minutes from an experienced mesothelioma attorney,
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
About 700,000 victims have filed claims for health damages from their asbestos exposure.
Find Out if you Qualify Today!
What Are Eligible Claims?
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Those diagnosed with mesothelioma from asbestos, including workers, military veterans, and secondarily exposed family members, might qualify to file for compensation claims.
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Each State Has a Strict Statute of Limitation For Filing a Claim! Here is a state-by state list of Filing Deadlines
Free Consultation
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
We provide a free case consultation with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to help you understand your legal options and potentially pursue compensation for asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace
Asbestos in Occupations
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
It is estimated that over 30 million workers in the U.S. have been exposed to asbestos since the 1940s. More than 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the U.S.
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
We provide specialized support for workers in high-risk asbestos exposure jobs, ensuring they receive expert legal assistance to pursue rightful compensation.
Asbestos Products
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
Military Asbestos Exposure
Learn about asbestos-containing products like insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials, and pipe coverings, and how exposure to these items can lead to serious health problems.
Military Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Military Asbestos Exposure
An estimated 25 million U.S. military veterans, especially Navy personnel, were exposed to asbestos in ships and shipyards from the late 1930s to the early 1990s.
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure was common in Navy ships and shipyards, where insulation, gaskets, and pipe coverings contained asbestos, putting countless sailors and shipyard workers at serious health risk.
Asbestos in Jobsites
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos was used on many jobsites, especially in construction and industrial work, exposing workers to hazardous fibers in insulation, cement, roofing, and pipe-covering materials.