Approximately 800,000 gallons of fuel leaked from Camp Lejeune's fuel farm, which contained high benzene levels
Benzene exposure increases the risk of multiple myeloma in veterans by up to 40%. In addition to benzene, pesticides are also known to cause multiple myeloma. Agent Orange, a chemical herbicide and defoliant, was used in tremendous amounts during the Vietnam War.
Over 11 million of Agent Orange were used during the conflict. It is important to note that veterans did not have to be stationed in Vietnam for exposure to occur, as the herbicide would often be stored on military facilities such as Camp Lejeune, and service members would have to handle it.
According to the VA, multiple myeloma is a disease that has a strong connection with Agent Orange. If you are a veteran with multiple myeloma who spent time at Camp Lejeune and want to file a claim, the following are the eligibility requirements you must meet:
- you must have been discharged from the military other than dishonorably
- you must have drunk toxic water at Camp Lejeune for a significant time
- you must have lived at the military base for at least 30 consecutive days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987
- you must have a diagnosis of multiple myeloma that has a connection with toxic exposure
The family members of Camp Lejeune veterans who stayed with them at the military base and developed multiple myeloma might also be entitled to compensation. Furthermore, civilians who worked at the facility and now struggle with this cancer might be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune toxic water claim, too. As a veteran, we will ask you for your military and medical records, while as a family member, you will have to provide our legal team with evidence of your time spent at the military base in addition to your medical records. Civilians will have to send in their employment and medical records.
