In October 1980, military chemists started testing drinking water at Camp Lejeune for possible contaminants. These tests revealed trace levels of organic compounds. But Camp Lejeune didn’t investigate the source of the contamination. After this test, an Army lab began testing the Hadnot Point water system for the potentially dangerous chemical by-product of chlorination. Unfortunately, the test results were inconsistent because other chemicals were also present. You can also try and find out more information through the camp Lejeune resource center.
Cancer
A new study examines the link between drinking water contaminants and cancer in male Marines. Marines from Camp Lejeune in North Carolina were exposed to volatile organic compounds, such as trichloroethylene and tetrachloroethylene, starting in the 1950s. In February 1985, they removed the contaminated wells from service. Despite the study’s limitations, the findings indicate that the drinking water of Camp Lejeune Marines may have caused several diseases, including cancer, and could be responsible for various illnesses.
Asbestos is dangerous at any level of exposure, even at low levels. For example, you can inhale asbestos dust from crumbling tiles and fraying insulation, but it’s hazardous if your drinking water contains mineral traces. Exposure to contaminated water increases your risk of severe health problems such as blood and digestive system cancer. Cancer caused by water contamination at Camp Lejeune is one of the most common reasons people are exposed to asbestos.
The VA’s proposed rule covers people who contracted certain illnesses at Camp Lejeune. It includes former reservists and National Guard members, too. It is based on scientific evidence and will not change based on commenters’ comments. However, the VA still hasn’t decided whether to include other illnesses. For example, if you have diabetes or high blood pressure, it may not be enough to link the two.
Congenital Disabilities
There is no clear evidence that tainted Camp Lejeune tap water causes congenital disabilities. Still, a recent study released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) argues that exposure may contribute to an increased risk of cancers and other childhood illnesses. Although the study’s sample size was small, it demonstrates an increased risk of leukemia and other congenital disabilities among children exposed to contaminated water.
While the law has not become effective, recent settlements involving congenital disabilities have provided a guideline. These settlements are based on previous congenital disability cases and the average payout amounts received by successful plaintiffs. However, the compensation a plaintiff could receive depends on the type of congenital disability they suffered. In extreme cases, a child may develop a rare, fatal condition like cerebral palsy.
There has been an overwhelming amount of scientific research and studies on the effects of Camp Lejeune water contamination. The study was based on surveys of parents of 12,598 children born at Camp Lejeune between 1968 and 1985. The most heavily contaminated drinking water wells at Camp Lejeune closed in 1985, and researchers could confirm only 52 of the 106 cases. Although the study results are inconclusive, they provide new hope to those seeking compensation.
Neurobehavioral Effects
In 2009, the NRC defined neurobehavioral effects as fatigue, confusion, memory loss, tension, difficulty concentrating, headache, and sensory disturbances. It also included cognitive impairment and neuropsychological disorders like depression and learning disabilities. These symptoms were separate from neurologic diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. However, the Reserve Officers Association requested that information about neurobehavioral effects be added to unspecified lists and registries.
Researchers have linked Camp Lejeune water contamination to 15 different health conditions. These include poor memory, concentration, depression, insomnia, and motor problems. Some of these symptoms may even be Parkinson’s disease, a slow onset, chronic disease affecting the nervous system. Although these problems’ exact causes are unknown, experts say the contamination was the worst in US history.
As a result of the contamination, Marines at Camp Lejeune could have consumed one to two quarts of water every hour while in training. They also used the contaminated water in schools, hospitals, homes, and other public areas around the base. As a result, not only did service members suffer from neurobehavioral effects, but civilians also suffered from this contaminated water. However, veterans may still be eligible to receive VA health care benefits if they served at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 cumulative days.