ASBESTOS TESTING
Health care services for military veterans at the New Haven Vet Center

Contact information for military veterans to test for exposure to asbestos: New Haven Vet Center, 141 Captain Thomas Blvd., West Haven, CT 06516. Phone: (203) 932-9899.

Do you think you're at risk for asbestos exposure? Look at the details below and find out more about this deadly substance. Read each of the following points for the most significant characteristics of individuals who may be at risk for asbestos exposure:

• People with breathing problems
• Those with prolonged exposure to asbestos
• Those who think they have had ongoing exposure to asbestos
• Immediate family members of individuals who have worked in asbestos-related fields, even if the individual who worked with asbestos has no obvious signs of exposure or respiratory issues

In general, there is a group of diseases that have been linked to 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).

The most commonly known symptoms of asbestos-related diseases are coughing, coughing blood, shortness of breath, chest pain and weight loss. Unfortunately, the tangible signs of asbestos exposure can appear up to 25 years after initial exposure. Annual or even semi-annual asbestos detection tests are recommended.

It is vital to seek a doctor's advice if you feel that you have been exposed to asbestos. The usual mode of testing is an x-ray (side and front view of your chest.) Further tests may include a pulmonary function test, blood work, a CT scan and/or biopsy. Physicians may speak a language incomprehensible to the typical patient. You should not hesitate to ask your medical professional about your situation. If you don't fully understand your doctor, have him clarify so you can better get the picture.

All those who have participated in the U.S. 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.

Living with mesothelioma can be taxing. 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 . . .