In 1982, significant water pollution was found in the two facilities for water treatment that serve Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune and Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) New River, North Carolina. An investigation found that the contamination by toxic chemicals had been in progress since 1957. In the end, the government stopped using the affected wells for water to the Tarawa Terrace and Hadnot Point treatment facilities in February 1985. However, the timeframe of exposure was the years 1957-87.
According to the National Research Council (U.S.) Committee on Contaminated drinking water in Camp Lejeune, the most significant contaminants were perchloroethylene (PCE) and trichloroethylene (TCE)–known carcinogens. Forty years later the government is still figuring out the long-term consequences of the contamination. During the contamination, Camp Lejeune’s residents could recover compensation for the related illness and other damage.
Health Problems that are directly connected to Water Contamination
It’s already been 65 years since Camp Lejeune’s contamination started and 40 years since its discovery. In that time increasing medical problems have been linked to the connection between contamination and health issues. For instance, evidence from medical professionals pointing out some of the causes that can cause health issues include:
- Age at the moment of contamination
- Condition in the event of exposure (pregnant female, infant in-utero)
- The duration and intensity of exposure
- General health when exposed
- Personal habits
- The kind of exposure (via breathing, drinking or even contact with skin)
Not all people exposed to affected water will experience reactive health issues. Due to the nature of contaminants it could make it more difficult that health problems can develop. The latest research adds hyperlinks to a more extensive range of health risks such as organ failure, cancers, neurological issues, and fertility issues.
Cancer
Cancer is among the most well-known health issues related to Camp Lejeune water contamination. The carcinogens in the water are well-known and have caused diagnosis that includes:
- Bladder cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Leukemia
- Esophageal cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Liver Cancer
- Lung cancer
- Breast cancer
If you, or someone else you love, has been diagnosed with cancer after exposure to the water pollution in Camp Lejeune, an attorney may seek to recover compensation from the parties accountable.
Failure of and damage to internal organs
One of the health issues is damage internal organs, which can lead to many related problems:
- The toxicity of the kidneys
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Hepatic Steatosis
- Scleroderma
The different contaminants’ effects can make it difficult to make a precise diagnosis.
Infertility
Researchers have discovered various issues that affect children exposed during infancy or early childhood. This has caused:
- Female infertility
- A miscarriage
The water pollution issue that plagued Camp Lejeune ruined the prospects of having children for many families with young children at an early age. Perhaps you’re suffering from problems with fertility after serving an assignment during your time at Camp Lejeune. If that is the scenario, you could want to talk with a legal firm to discuss the alternatives.
Neurological problems
Research continues to reveal additional health issues traced back to the contamination period and the services provided by Camp Lejeune. The neurobehavioral effects, that relate with the control of nerves as well as behavior, can manifest as symptoms like:
- Memory loss
- Dementia
- Concentration difficulty
- Disorder of post-traumatic stress (PTSD)
- Fatigue
- Motor (movement) difficult
- Insomnia
Dementia with early-onset Parkinson’s Disease, hyperactivity and anxiety, and other disorders are linked with Camp Lejeune.
The neurologic issues are usually the first indication for toxic pollution. But, these conditions were accompanied by names like the autism spectrum, ADHD, and general anxiety for a long time before the pieces started to join.
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination explained
This contamination in Camp Lejeune was caused by various factors, such as improper management methods, inadequate maintenance of equipment, as well as an absence of oversight from management at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). It took some time to get the EPA to admit what happened in Camp Lejeune, but now they are working to eliminate the mess.
Alongside the health risks that come with contaminated drinking water, there are also environmental issues. More than 1 million gallons of extremely toxic waste are in trenches near the bottom. This waste has significant levels of harmful non-organic dioxins and PCBs, which could contaminate the soil and surface water.
If you’ve had exposure to polluted waters at Camp Lejeune and would like to know more about your rights as a legal person contact us today to schedule a no-cost initial consultation. We provide free consultations to every client.
What are the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Health Problems?
Military has spent billions of dollars to clean up the polluted drinking water supply at Camp Lejeune supplied by Hadnot Point. However, the issue isn’t limited to one base. As per the EPA More than one million Gallons of toxic waste was discharged into the ocean at the base between 1969 between 1969 and 1987. A lot of residents report that they feel sick because of the polluted waters.
The following health conditions and negative side effects on health have been associated with exposure Camp Lejeune water:
- Cancer
- Congenital disabilities
- Miscarriages
- Stillbirths
- Congenital heart disease
- Diabetes
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Neurological disorders
- Reproductive issues
- Skin diseases
- Thyroid cancer
- Vascular disease
The list goes on. People living near the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune suffer from these diseases.
How can I tell If I’ve been exposed To Camp Lejeune Water?
It is possible that you were exposed to the contaminated Camp Lejeune drinking water at Hadnot Point in several ways. You might have been informed that the family members or you members were stationed at Hadnot Point as an active duty or National Guard member during your military service. You could have drunk the water, or had it flow from your plumbing system, or even used it for shower.
If you have drank from the water, be aware that certain studies suggest that babies born into mothers who consume polluted water during pregnancy tend to be born with particular congenital disorders. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, babies whose mothers had consumed affected drinking water throughout pregnancy are twice more susceptible to being born with spina Bifida.
You might have also experienced signs and symptoms that could be related to the water pollution. The adverse health effects are:
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Joint pain
- Memory loss
- Nausea
- Stomach pains
- The swelling of legs and feet
- Weight loss
You might notice your skin’s appearance is different. Some people notice their skin becoming flakier or dry than normal. Other people experience sores and rashes. If you are concerned about how you may suffer from this water pollution, call our office now to assist you in learning more about what transpired.
What contaminants were found at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base Camp?
The issue was discovered following several tests performed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found high levels of chemical compounds such as arsenic, lead, chromium and cadmium perchlorate, mercury trichloroethylene, as well as vinyl chloride. Certain of these pollutants are known carcinogens. Others can cause liver damage and cause congenital disabilities.
Along with the contaminants present in the waters, significant levels of PCBs were discovered in the soil surrounding the base. This chemical contaminant has been linked with a greater risk of developing cancer as well as reproductive and neurological diseases, and other health issues.
The EPA the amount of chemicals in the water of Camp Lejeune wasn’t enough to be a significant risk to the health of humans. The agency did find indications that chemicals could cause damage to wildlife over time or marine species.
Who was responsible to the Camp Lejeune North Carolina Water Pollution?
As per the EPA, The Navy was responsible for observing the water quality in Camp Lejeune. The Army Corps of Engineers ensured that the water complied with all federal standards. The employees of Camp Lejeune knew about the issue, but did not report the problem to his superiors.
The government has made payments of thousands of dollars as settlements for victims of water contamination. As per The Associated Press, the Department of Justice has received more than 100 million dollars in claims from people who believe they contracted illness from exposure to polluted water.
Water Contamination Facts
The contamination was first discovered at the time of its discovery in 1982. An investigation identified the root of the initial problem to two primary sources. The first issue with PCE in Tarawa Terrace treatment facility. Tarawa Terrace treatment facility began by a misplaced disposal of the dry-cleaning solvent.
A dry cleaner off-base, ABC One-Hour Cleaners, discharged the solvent, leading to groundwater contamination as well as poisoning the well that supplied the facility for treatment. The process started earlier, however, the degree of contamination was considered to be unsafe for human consumption around the year 1957.
It was found that the TCE presence at Hadnot Point facility was more difficult to identify because of the multiple sources. In the course of the investigation, the reason was identified as a mix of chemical leaks, leaks resulting from poorly kept underground tanks for storage, and inadequate storage and storage facilities of chemicals. Other contaminants found inside the drinking water system were Vinyl chloride Benzene as well as other harmful chemicals.
Wells Closed Down in February 1985.
The long-term consequences of this contamination are being felt. The wells were shut down in 1985, however, it could take over three generations before the cycle that started in the 1950s.
If you or a family member were in Camp Lejeune for more than 30 days over the time of contamination. If that is the scenario, you could qualify for medical benefits. Our firm is able to provide free case review if you have any questions regarding your rights in relation to the Camp Lejeune water contamination and would like to know more about the legal options.
Did You Work in Camp Lejeune? Are I able to receive disability benefits?
Members of the military service who worked in Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base Camp during this time could be covered under the presumed law governing service connections. If you experienced any health issues during your time at Camp Lejeune and you were exposed to toxic substances, you may be eligible for benefits even if you didn’t be there for more than 90 calendar days. Marines Army, Navy – Active Duty or National Guard members who served in the military had the opportunity to be stationed at Camp Lejeune and had toxic exposure are protected.
A copy of your military documents as well as medical documents (if you attended the hospital on base) and housing records can help determine your eligibility. A detailed medical documentation as well as expense records will accelerate the process. Begin by preparing an extensive listing of all your health issues.
If you believe you may be eligible for these benefits, please contact us now. We provide no-cost consultations and strive to achieve results for our clients.
It is the Camp Lejeune Act of 2022 allows you to seek compensation
The Camp Lejeune Act 2022 came into force on the 10th of August, you are given two years from that date to submit a claim to compensation. We are your Camp Lejeune water contamination lawyer will investigate what has happened to you, determine whether you are eligible to file a claim, and get the financial relief you’re entitled to.
Our team will assist you when you contact us for no-cost consultation. Our attorneys operate on a contingency fee. This means that you do not pay charges or fees in advance. We only receive money if we are able to negotiate an agreement or court order on behalf of you. Don’t hesitate to ask for the amount of compensation you need to make a move and restore your life to path.
Free Consultation Available for More Details
The team of The Justice Now is well-versed in the water pollution issues in Marine Corps Base (MCB) Camp Lejeune. Contact our office to schedule a free consultation on your possible financial recovery.
