Camp Lejeune Brain Cancer Lawsuit
Camp Lejeune Brain Cancer Claims Due to Toxic Water
If you were diagnosed with brain cancer or another qualifying condition after being exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you might be eligible for a Camp Lejeune brain cancer lawsuit or claim.
Many service members, family members, and civilian contractors have developed brain cancer or other injuries after living and working at the Marine Corps base, potentially due to contaminated water.
If you’re ready to file a claim, call Riddle & Brantley at 1-800-525-7111 and we will help you evaluate your Camp Lejeune lawsuit or claim options for free. We are actively investigating these claims and would love to assist military veterans in obtaining the justice they deserve.
Because of the recently passed Camp Lejeune Justice Act (part of the broader PACT Act for veterans), victims of the camp that have historically been denied their claims can now pursue the justice they deserve.
Did Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune Cause Brain Cancer?
To be clear, the toxic water at Camp Lejeune may have caused brain cancer among veterans, family members, and civilian workers. These victims may be eligible for a Camp Lejeune brain cancer claim or lawsuit.
From 1953 through 1985, Camp Lejeune’s water was polluted with dangerous chemicals, which military personnel, their families, and civilian workers subsequently drank or were exposed to. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) reports that benzene, industrial solvents, and other carcinogens were present in the water at Camp Lejeune.
As early as the 1970s, residents began to report cases of cancer in the area. In recent years, further studies have shown a link between exposure to contaminated water and an increased risk of certain types of brain cancer.
Evidence that Camp Lejeune Water Caused Brain Cancer
Brain cancer and other health problems may be linked to chemicals in improperly treated industrial waste and industrial byproducts, such as trichloroethylene (TCE), perchloroethylene (PCE), vinyl chloride, and benzene. These dangerous chemicals were present in the water at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina between 1953 and 1987.
TCE and Brain Cancer
Trichloroethylene (TCE) is a commonly used solvent in the dry cleaning industry. It is highly volatile and can be found in air, water, and soil. TCE exposure has been shown to cause a variety of health problems, including liver damage and cancer. In 2013, the International Agency for Research on Cancer classified TCE as a possible human carcinogen. Research suggests that exposure to TCE may increase the risk of brain tumors.
TCE has been linked to childhood and adult brain cancer. In addition, it is a known neurotoxin and has been shown to have adverse effects on the nervous system. While it’s not yet clear exactly how TCE causes cancer, research suggests that it may affect DNA repair pathways in the body, which could lead to the development of tumors.
The EPA is so concerned about the risks associated with TCE that they have released a full risk evaluation on the chemical and are moving to propose bans or strict regulations on the use of TCE in manufacturing in the U.S. as part of its effort to reduce chemical exposures.
PCE and Brain Cancer
PCE is a colorless liquid used in the production of other chemicals. It was first discovered in 1929 and was used widely during World War II to make plastics and explosives. It’s also used in products like paint strippers and degreasers. As a result, it has been found in many different environments including soil, water, air, and buildings. It’s also found in some foods like coffee grounds, vegetables, and fruits.
There are two main health concerns related to PCE exposure: cancer and reproductive health problems. Cancer risk is highest for those who have been exposed for a long time or at high levels of exposure. Other health concerns include kidney damage and nervous system problems such as dizziness or headaches. Reproductive health concerns include delayed sexual development
While studies directly relating brain cancer risk to PCE are ongoing, there is established research on the neurotoxicity of PCE and its long-term effects on the health and function of the brain.
Benzene and Brain Cancer
Benzene is a known human carcinogen that can cause brain tumors. It is found in gasoline, paint, detergents, and other sources of air pollution. It can also be found in many foods such as potato chips and hot dogs. High levels of benzene in the body have been linked to an increased risk of developing other soft tissue cancers such as non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma and leukemia.
A 2017 study found a strong link between chlorinated solvents (similar to benzene) and higher instances of gliomas (a type of brain tumor), suggesting that these solvents can effectively raise the risk of brain cancer in those exposed.
Vinyl Chloride and Brain Cancer
Vinyl chloride, a compound used in the manufacture of PVC plastics and adhesives, was phased out of the U.S. in the 1970s after decades of research linked it to cancer. However, prior to 1970, industrial activities around Camp Lejeune led to high levels of vinyl chloride contaminating the water in the area.
In a 2016 study, researchers found that vinyl chloride exposure may increase risk for glioma, a type of brain tumor that is associated with environmental toxins such as chlorinated drinking water or pesticides. The researchers found that vinyl chloride exposure increased glioma risk by 4-5 times when compared to those exposed only to other toxins.
Other studies have looked at vinyl chloride exposure and its general link to increased cancer risk in occupational workers. The British Journal of Independent Medicine found a significant link between vinyl chloride exposure and the development of various cancers in industrial workers who were regularly exposed to it.
“Can I File a Camp Lejeune Brain Cancer Claim or Lawsuit?”
Victims of contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 are now able to file claims directly against the federal government under provisions in the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, which cleared the Senate in a final vote on August 2, 2022.
Anyone who meets the following criteria may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit.
IMPORTANT: Certain diagnoses may not qualify if not accompanied by another diagnosis for a separate condition. Call 1-800-525-7111 for a free case review and we’ll evaluate your claim.
- Were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune for 30 or more days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
- Were diagnosed with one of the following conditions:
- Brain cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Prostate cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Liver cancer
- Lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Uterine cancer
- Colon cancer
- Laryngeal cancer
- Oral cavity and pharyngeal cancer
- Thyroid cancer
- Leukemia
- Acute myeloid leukemia
- Multiple myeloma
- Non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma (NHL)
- Parkinson’s disease
- Liver disease
- Rectal cancer, colon cancer, and colorectal cancer
- CNS cancer (central nervous system cancer)
- Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS)
- Fatty liver disease (NAFLD or hepatic steatosis)
- Renal toxicity
- Miscarriage
- Epilepsy
- Female infertility
- Birth defects
- Scleroderma
- Heart defects
Riddle & Brantley can help you determine the best legal course of action, evaluate your Camp Lejeune brain cancer claim, and file it on your behalf (if you choose to hire us). A Camp Lejeune brain cancer lawsuit (or claim for another injury) may be an option to help you or a loved one recover the compensation you deserve.
Please call us at 1-800-525-7111 for a free, no-obligation consultation to get started on recovering what you’ve lost due to illness or injury.
“By far the best law firm that actually cares about helping veterans.”
–B.F., Riddle & Brantley client
Symptoms of Brain Cancer
Brain cancer can be challenging to detect in its early stages. This is because symptoms are often influenced by which part of the brain is affected and its corresponding functions. Not all brain tumors cause symptoms. However, some key signs appear early, such as:
- Seizures
- Numbness
- Severe headaches
Symptoms that appear later may include:
- Changes in vision or hearing
- Personality changes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Weakness or paralysis in one or more limbs
- Difficulties with balance and coordination.
Brain cancer symptoms can result from the following:
- The tumor is pressing on other parts of the brain.
- Swelling in the brain caused by the tumor or surrounding inflammation.
If you experience any of these symptoms, you must see a doctor as soon as possible for a diagnosis. Brain cancer is notoriously difficult to treat, and the earlier it is caught, the better the chances of successful treatment.
Brain Cancer Diagnosis
There are many different types of brain cancer. However, the following are common steps to diagnose it.
- Your doctor will ask for your medical history. This will include questions about any symptoms you may be experiencing, as well as any family history of cancer.
- You will undergo a physical examination. This will help to rule out any other possible causes of your symptoms.
- Your doctor will order imaging tests. These may include a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan. These tests will create detailed images of your brain so the tumor can be located.
- A biopsy may be performed. Your doctor may order a tissue sample from the tumor to be analyzed in the lab. This is the only way to diagnose brain cancer definitively.
Once brain cancer has been diagnosed, your healthcare professionals will develop a personalized treatment plan for you which will consider the type and stage of your cancer, as well as your overall health and preferences.
Talk with a Camp Lejeune Brain Cancer Lawyer for Free
Riddle & Brantley can help you determine the best legal options for seeking compensation if you were diagnosed with brain cancer (or another qualifying condition) after being exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. For free legal advice and assistance, contact us today at 1-800-525-7111.
We serve clients nationwide and even have offices just down the road from Camp Lejeune in Jacksonville, NC. Many of our attorneys and staff have close family ties to the military, and we are proud to fight for those who have served and sacrificed for us.
Free consultations are available by phone, email, text, or video conference. For clients local to North Carolina, we can even come to you directly. Call 1-800-525-7111 and let’s review your potential Camp Lejeune brain cancer claim.
Results for Our Clients
We’re proud of the settlements and verdicts we’ve won for our clients. Since 2000 alone, we’ve recovered over $665 million for our injured clients since (see disclaimer below). In addition to the compensation we’ve recovered for victims, we’re thrilled that clients consistently describe their experience working with our team in overwhelmingly positive terms:
“You’ll walk in the door as a client but leave as family. They’re the absolute best.”
–Susan S., Riddle & Brantley client
Award-Winning Trial Attorneys
Our Camp Lejeune brain cancer claim lawyers have also been recognized by many prestigious memberships and awards (see disclaimer below), including:
- Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum
- Super Lawyers
- The National Trial Lawyers Top 100
- The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40
- Super Lawyers “Rising Stars”
- The National Association of Distinguished Counsel
- AV Preeminent Rating by Martindale-Hubbell
- The Litigator Award
We are ready to help you with a brain cancer claim associated with the water contamination at Camp Lejeune. Please call 1-800-525-7111 or fill out the simple form below. Get in touch with us today for a free consultation with an experienced Camp Lejeune lawsuit lawyer.
Those who served our country, their families, and civilian military contractors who lived and worked at US Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune deserve justice, and we are standing by to assist in any way we can.
*** Disclaimer: The results mentioned are intended to illustrate the type of cases handled by the firm. These results do not guarantee a similar outcome, and they should not be construed to constitute a promise or guarantee of a particular result in any particular case. Every case is different, and the outcome of any case depends upon a variety of factors unique to that case.
*** Disclaimer: An attorney must meet certain requirements to join these organizations or receive these awards. For more information on Membership Criteria for Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, Super Lawyers, Super Lawyers “Rising Star” designation, The National Trial Lawyers Top 100, The National Trial Lawyers Top 40 Under 40, The National Association of Distinguished Counsel, AV Preeminent designation by Martindale-Hubbell, the Litigator Award, and other memberships, awards, and accolades, please visit our Membership Criteria page. These awards and memberships should not be construed as a promise or guarantee of a similar result. Each case is different and must be evaluated separately.