ASBESTOS TESTING
Health care services for military veterans at the Vet Center in Charleston, S.C.

Contact information for military veterans to test for exposure to asbestos: Charleston Vet Center, 5603-A Rivers Ave., N. Charleston, SC 29418. Phone: (843) 747-8387.

Do you fit the description below? If so, you may want to consider getting tested for exposure to asbestos. First off, there are some questions one should ask to figure out if asbestos exposure is an issue. Some questions to ask include: Do you think you have had prolonged exposure to asbestos? Are you an immediate family member of someone who has worked in asbestos-related industries? Have you worked somewhere where asbestos insulation was used? Is it possible your exposure to asbestos was in the form of a "burst exposure" (a very heavy concentration) to asbestos for short periods of time? Was yes a response to any of these? If so, you may wish to discuss this with your health-care provider.

Certain illnesses result from asbestos exposure: Mesothelioma (a cancer of the thin membranes lining the thoracic and abdominal cavities and surrounding internal organs), asbestosis (a serious, chronic, non cancerous fibrous hardening and scarring of the lungs), lung cancer, and pleural plaque and thickening (scarring of the lining of the lung). Some symptoms of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, these symptoms of asbestos exposure can appear up to 25 years after primary exposure. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended.

It is imperative to see a doctor if you think that you have been exposed to asbestos. Initial testing is an x-ray (side and front view of your chest.) Other tests may include a pulmonary function test, blood work, a CT scan and/or biopsy. Physicians may speak a language that is perplexing to the typical patient. Don't be afraid to question your medical professional about your circumstance. If you don't fully understand your doctor, request that he explain it in a way that you can better get the picture. All people who have participated in the American Armed Forces should receive the benefits they deserve.

Weitz & Luxenberg is committed to making this happen. This includes compensation for life-threatening diseases that are caused by inhalation of asbestos, such as mesothelioma.

Surviving with lung cancer can be challenging. Weitz & Luxenberg can help relieve some of the burden by providing you with a free case evaluation. Your first step is to fill out the form below.

Your next step . . .