From 1953 to 1987, a stealthy and hazardous threat lurked within the U.S. Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, North Carolina.
Veterans, along with their families and civilian personnel, unknowingly drank water infused with damaging chemicals.
The repercussions of this prolonged exposure have manifested in numerous health complications that persistently affect many, even today.
Of the health conditions associated with this contamination, aplastic anemia stands out as an especially concerning diagnosis.
Aplastic Anemia and Camp Lejeune
While Camp Lejeune boasts a legacy filled with military successes, a darker narrative of harmful health consequences from its tainted drinking water also intertwines with its history.
Modern medical research has unveiled a probable link between aplastic anemia and the toxic compounds in Camp Lejeune’s water supply.
Accentuating the extent of this public health issue, the VA has spotlighted the potential risk for veterans and others who resided or worked at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River between August 1953 and December 1987.
They might have been exposed to this chemically compromised water.
The CDC, after rigorous evaluation, has identified two distinct on-base water sources as the main contributors to this alarming contamination.
This water contained a cocktail of hazardous chemicals such as:
- Trichloroethylene (TCE)
- Perchloroethylene (PCE)
- Trans-1
- Dichloroethylene (DCE)
- Benzene
- Vinyl chloride
Subsequent probes have unearthed additional contaminants, underscoring the vast scope of the water pollution.
By the mid-1980s, the undeniable gravity of this contamination issue led to the decisive closure of the impacted wells.
The contamination was traced back to a neighboring dry cleaning business outside the base’s boundaries.
Their improper disposal practices allowed a myriad of toxins to seep into the base’s water system, jeopardizing the health of countless veterans and others.
About Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a severe condition wherein the bone marrow falls short of producing adequate blood cells, encompassing red and white blood cells as well as platelets.
Such insufficiency can result in uncontrollable bleeding, infections, and various other complications.
Although it can manifest at any age, young adults face a heightened risk.
It’s imperative to note that exposure to specific chemicals, notably those detected in Camp Lejeune’s water, elevates the chances of contracting aplastic anemia, making the situation even more critical for veterans pursuing VA benefits.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Aplastic Anemia
Early detection of aplastic anemia is paramount for initiating timely treatment and increasing the likelihood of a positive outcome.
Some of the symptoms to be vigilant about include:
- Fatigue or weakness
- Shortness of breath with exertion
- Prolonged or frequent infections
- Easy bruising or nosebleeds
- Skin rash
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
For individuals who have a history of residing or working at Camp Lejeune during the contamination years, it’s especially important to be aware of these symptoms.
Seeking immediate medical consultation upon noticing any such signs can lead to early diagnosis and more effective treatment strategies.
Am I eligible for VA disability compensation?
You may be eligible for disability compensation payments on a presumptive basis if you meet all of these requirements.
These requirements apply to Veterans, Reservists, and National Guard members.
Both of these descriptions must be true:
- You served at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River, North Carolina, for at least 30 days total between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987, and
- You didn’t receive a dishonorable discharge when you separated from the military
And you must have a diagnosis of 1 or more of these presumptive conditions:
- Adult leukemia
- Aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Multiple myeloma
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Parkinson’s disease
Evidence shows a link between these conditions and exposure to chemicals found in the drinking water at Camp Lejeune and MCAS New River during this time.
If you resided at Camp Lejeune or MCAS New River, North Carolina, you also may be able to participate in the class-action lawsuit under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. For more information, please see our resource page about the lawsuit here.
Can I also get health care benefits?
Yes. If you meet the service requirements for Camp Lejeune, you may be eligible to enroll in VA health care.
If you have any of the 15 covered health conditions listed here, you won’t have to pay a copay for care for that condition.
Here are the 15 covered conditions related to Camp Lejeune:
- Bladder cancer
- Breast cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Female infertility
- Hepatic steatosis
- Kidney cancer
- Leukemia
- Lung cancer
- Miscarriage
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Neurobehavioral effects
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma
- Renal toxicity
- Scleroderma
Note: If you also get VA health care for other conditions that aren’t on this list, you may need to pay a copay for that care.
How Hill & Ponton is Committed to Supporting Affected Veterans
The tragic legacy of Camp Lejeune’s water contamination continues to impact countless lives.
However, with the right legal support, affected individuals can seek and secure the benefits they rightly deserve.
At Hill & Ponton, our primary mission is to advocate for veterans’ rights.
We specialize in VA disability benefits, striving tirelessly to navigate the intricate legal processes on behalf of those who served.
If you or a loved one have been affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
Reach Out Today: You’ve served our country; now let us serve you.
Call Hill & Ponton at 1-888-477-2363 for professional assistance.
If you’ve been denied VA benefits and need help filing a claim, we’re here to support you.
Don’t delay—contact us and secure the compensation you deserve.
Click the button below to begin your free case evaluation.
