Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Guide
Posted on: 8 September 2022
There are many incidents of water contamination and other hazards, but the Camp Lejeune water contamination incident was one of the worst. If you or a loved one of yours may have been impacted by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, keep reading.
What Contaminated the Camp Lejeune Water?
In the 1980s, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) were found in the drinking water at Camp Lejeune. Unfortunately, these compounds had been impacting the water since the camp's founding in the 50s. The two treatment plants affected were Tarawa Terrace and Hadnot Point.
Water at the Tarawa Terrace water treatment plant was contaminated with tetrachloroethylene, which came from the waste of a dry-cleaning company that dumped dry-cleaning chemicals down the storm drain. Hadnot Point water had various contaminants, including trichloroethylene.
Anyone who lived at US Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune between the 50s and 80s may likely have been exposed to these VOCs. Naturally, this doesn't just mean Marines. It also includes families and civilian workers.
What Are the Complications of Contaminated Water Exposure?
The contaminates found at Camp Lejeune were carcinogenic, which increases the risk of cancer. People exposed to the contaminated Lejeune water may develop many forms of cancer, including:
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
- Leukemia
Besides cancer, other people may also develop other conditions from exposure. These include Parkinson's disease, renal toxicity, female infertility, miscarriage, and much more.
Can You Sue?
If you or a family were affected and you are a veteran or a family member of a veteran (spouse or child), you should contact the VA healthcare department to see if treatment is covered based on your condition. If you were a civilian when affected, you won't be able to pursue VA benefits.
Regardless of your VA status, you can file a Camp Lejeune cancer lawsuit. You'll have to prove you are eligible for a settlement, and it's best to have an attorney who can file the paperwork and negotiate on your behalf. In rare cases, you may not be able to reach a settlement. In this case, you'll also need an attorney to represent you in court.
If you were affected by the Camp Lejeune water contamination, or if you want to help a loved one seek compensation, it's time to act. The VOCs in the water can increase the risk of many health conditions. If you would like to know more, contact a Camp Lejeune water contamination attorney in your area today.
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