Contaminated water can cause several health issues and life-threatening diseases. The polluted waters at Camp Lejeune are a prominent example where veterans and their family members residing in the region between 1953 and 1987 have witnessed major harm. They have faced chronic ailments, like various kinds of cancer, and fatal health conditions like infertility, high cholesterol, birth defects, and many more.
Anecdotal accounts and news reports suggest that the contaminated waters in this region have led to neurological conditions in veterans, such as Parkinson’s disease. In this article, we will delve into the connection between neurological issues and the contaminated waters at Camp Lejeune and how the victims can seek compensation for it.
Did The Toxic Water Result In Neurological Issues?
The chances are yes. According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), the contaminated water in Camp Lejeune is the reason for long-term neurological problems in veterans.
JAMA Neurology, in their May 2023 issue, published a study that researched the neurological effects of the toxic water exposure at Camp Lejeune. The study evaluated health records dating from 1997 to 2021 of more than 340,000 service members. Close to half of these people were located at Camp Lejeune between the years 1975 and 1985, and another half were stationed at Camp Pendleton, which had clean water.
The neurological effects of the water contamination occurred because of the presence of industrial solvents, benzene, and fuel leaked into the water supply of the base. All these dangerous materials are known as VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and are linked to several health issues among veterans.
People who bathed in, drank, or even used the polluted waters between the years 1953 and 1987 are at risk of many neurological health issues. If you or any of your loved ones have spent about a month in this region and have noticed neurological issues, you can file your Camp Lejeune lawsuit by August 2024 and seek the compensation you deserve.
Neurological Conditions and Diseases in Camp Lejeune
According to the ATSDR (Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry), the veterans in Camp Lejeune were at a high risk of developing ALS because they were exposed to benzene. Two other predominant neurological conditions that are common among people affected by the polluted waters in this region are Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis.
A study named, “Trichloroethylene: An Invisible Cause of Parkinson’s Disease” states that TCE can be the reason for people developing Parkinson’s disease. TCE was also one of the harsh chemicals that were present in the contaminated waters at Camp Lejeune. The VA further said that veterans are at a 70% higher risk of developing Parkinson’s disease than any other demographic because of the fatal chemicals that contaminated the water supply systems.
The Compensation Options Available
If you have been affected by the toxic waters at Camp Lejeune and have developed a neurological condition, you can opt for several means to choose your compensation. The VA provides an advantage to the qualifying veterans who developed ailments after drinking the polluted waters.
That aside, the CLJA (Camp Lejeune Justice Act), which is part of the PACT Act issued in 2022, enables those affected by the toxic water exposure to get compensated if they meet the desired criteria. Parkinson’s disease is considered one of the eight presumptive ailments because of harmful water contamination. It means that the veterans can get monthly VA disability payments.
In 2024, the VA monthly disability rates will vary between $3,737.85 and $4,000. There is also a 100% disability rating depending on the dependent status. The VA-accredited lawyers join hands with the Camp Lejeune Claims Center to help people receive these benefits.
Can a Lawyer Help?
TorHoerman Law states that a lawyer is an essential point of contact who can let you know whether you qualify to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit for your neurological issue. They will listen to your situation, assess the proof you present to them, and let you know about your eligibility. Once that is done, they can also let you know about the compensation that you might receive to cover the losses you’ve endured.
You need to keep in mind that this settlement payout amount is not the final one, and it will vary based on the degree of suffering and duration of exposure. With the help of a lawyer, you can get compensated for your pain, suffering, medical costs, lost earnings, and much more.In conclusion, people who stayed at Camp Lejeune during the contamination phase developed several health hazards, which also included neurological conditions like ALS, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. If you or any of your loved one’s face the same, you must seek both medical and legal aid.
By Chris Bates
