Adult Leukemia Linked to Contaminated Drinking Water at Camp Lejeune

Camp Lejeune veterans, military personnel, their family members, and civilian workers were exposed to a combination of toxic chemicals in the base’s contaminated water supply for over 30 years.

The hazardous contaminants in the drinking water can cause severe health problems, including different types of myeloid cancer.

The Cancer Incidence Study mentioned above found that individuals who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune compared to those who were stationed at Camp Pendleton suffered from an increased risk of myeloid cancers, including Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

About Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) is a type of cancer that that primarily affects the blood and bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside bones where blood cells are made.

As AML advances, it overwhelms the bone marrow’s ability to produce normal red cells, white cells, and platelets.

This imbalance can cause infections, anemia, or excessive bleeding, significantly impacting the body’s ability to fight off diseases and perform basic functions.

Individuals suffering from AML often experience symptoms such as fatigue and weakness (due to anemia), increased susceptibility to infections (due to the lack of healthy white blood cells), and a propensity for bruising or bleeding easily (resulting from a shortage of platelets).

AML can cause the spleen and liver to enlarge as these organs attempt to filter out the abnormal cells, contributing to discomfort and potential complications in various bodily functions.

AML and its Causes

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) arises from various potential causes and risk factors that contribute to the development of this aggressive form of cancer.

Genetic mutations in the DNA of developing blood cells can trigger AML by causing abnormal cell growth and division, leading to the accumulation of leukemia cells.

Previous chemotherapy or radiation therapy treatments, especially those involving alkylating agents or topoisomerase II inhibitors, can also increase the likelihood of developing therapy-related AML.

Certain genetic syndromes, like Down syndrome, and other blood disorders, including myelodysplastic syndrome, have been identified as predisposing factors, indicating that both inherited and acquired conditions can influence the onset of AML.

Exposure to certain toxic substances, including benzene and certain chemicals found in contaminated water, has been linked to the development of AML by causing mutations in the DNA of developing blood cells.

Chemical exposure disrupts normal cell growth and division, potentially triggering the onset of AML in individuals who have been exposed.

Complications of Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)

Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) can lead to several severe complications due to the rapid proliferation of abnormal white blood cells, which impede the bone marrow’s ability to produce healthy blood cells.

One major complication is an increased susceptibility to infections, as the immune system is compromised by the lack of functional white blood cells.

AML patients may also experience anemia and bleeding problems, including easy bruising or bleeding, due to the insufficient production of red blood cells and platelets.

The spread of leukemia cells to other parts of the body, such as the liver, spleen, lymph nodes, testicles, and central nervous system, can cause organ dysfunction and additional health issues, complicating treatment and recovery.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Overview

As established, toxic substances contaminated water supplies at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune for over three decades.

Countless individuals exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune developed cancer and other severe health problems.

For decades, service members, their family members, civilian workers, and others at Camp Lejeune drank, bathed in, and used contaminated water without any warning or form of recourse.

The Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit has been made possible through the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

Since the enactment of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, numerous individuals affected by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987 have been given a legal pathway to seek compensation.

The CLJA allows veterans, their family members, and civilian workers exposed to toxic water at the base to file claims for health issues they believe are linked to that exposure.

The process for filing claims involves initially submitting an administrative claim with the Department of the Navy, which, if not resolved within six months or is denied, allows claimants to proceed with filing a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

The implementation of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act has prompted further examination of the health implications of contaminated drinking water, with advocates who have been personally impacted by Camp Lejeune water contamination leading the charge.

The Camp Lejeune Lawsuits and administrative claims process represent a critical step towards justice for impacted individuals, highlighting broader challenges of addressing environmental health risks and responsibilities of our government.

Our law firm is currently helping individuals file Camp Lejeune claims to seek compensation.

If you or a loved one lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between 1953 and 1987, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim.

Contact TorHoerman Law’s Camp Lejeune Lawyers for a free consultation and to learn about your options.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit instantly.

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022

Several laws have previously sought to provide relief to Camp Lejeune victims.

Under the Federal Tort Claims Act of 1946 (FTCA), individuals could receive compensation for personal injury, property damage or loss, or death from a federal employee’s negligence or act of omission.

However, they could not pursue claims against the federal government.

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA) of 2022, Section 804 of the PACT Act, amended the FTCA and granted qualified individuals and survivors of deceased victims the right to file Camp Lejeune claims against the federal government for damages due to illness, injury, or death caused by exposure to hazardous substances in the water supply.

How are Camp Lejeune Claims Handled?

Camp Lejeune claims are processed through a structured legal framework established by the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

Individuals seeking to file a claim often work with a legal representative or a Camp Lejeune Lawyer, who is knowledgeable about the complexities of the case and the requirements set by the Justice Department under the PACT Act.

Once an administrative claim is filed, it undergoes a review process which assesses the validity and extent of each claim.

The Navy JAG has six months to adjudicate or deny Camp Lejeune victims’ claims.

Claims that meet the criteria under the PACT Act are then moved forward for adjudication or settlement discussions.

Individuals who have not received a decision from the JAG within six months, or have been denied, may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit in North Carolina Federal Court.

What is the Average Camp Lejeune Settlement?

Camp Lejeune settlements can vary significantly, influenced by factors such as the nature of the illness and the duration of exposure.

Lawyers estimate that Camp Lejeune settlement amounts may range from $10,000 to over $1,000,000, depending on the individual circumstances of each case.

These figures are based on allocations made by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) for handling Camp Lejeune claims.

These estimates are not guarantees of specific compensation outcomes for Camp Lejeune settlements.

It is highly recommended to contact an experienced Camp Lejeune Lawyer for insight on your specific case.

Contact our law firm for a free consultation and to learn about your legal options.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you are eligible to file a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit instantly.

Diseases and Health Problems Linked to Camp Lejeune Water Contamination

Exposure to toxic substances in the water at Camp Lejeune has had a profound impact on veterans, their families, and civilian staff, resulting in a range of health conditions.

Camp Lejeune water contamination has led to significant health challenges for those affected during the contamination period.

The acknowledgment of these health issues is a crucial step towards providing the necessary relief and support veterans, their family members, civilian workers, and others exposed deserve.

The consumption of Camp Lejeune contaminated water has been linked to a number of cancer and non-cancer diagnoses including, but not limited to:

• Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML)
• Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia (CLL)
• Prostate Cancer
• Lung Cancer
• Liver Cancer
• Breast Cancer
• Kidney Cancer
• Adult Leukemia
• Aplastic Anemia
• Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
• Renal Toxicity
• Multiple Myeloma
• Other myelodysplastic syndromes
• Miscarriage, infertility and birth defects
• Many more diagnoses

Service members, their families, civilian workers, and countless others were diagnosed with deadly health conditions and, for years, could not secure the benefits they desperately needed.

What Toxic Substances Were Found in the Water Supply at Camp Lejeune?

In the water supply at Camp Lejeune, a range of toxic substances were identified, tracing back to various sources of contamination including leaking storage tanks and industrial activities.

Toxic substances were found across different water treatment facilities within the base, impacting thousands of residents over decades.

The Tarawa Terrace and Hadnot Point water treatment plants were among the most affected, with tests revealing the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) at levels far exceeding safety standards.

Toxic substances found in the water at Camp Lejeune included:

• Tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
• Trichloroethylene (TCE)
• Benzene
• Vinyl chloride

These chemicals are linked to a variety of adverse health effects.

Do You Qualify to File a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit Claim?

The Camp Lejeune litigation process can be complicated and time-consuming for those unfamiliar with the relevant laws and stipulations.

You may be eligible for compensation under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act (CLJA) if:

• You were a resident at Camp Lejeune for at least 30 days, from August 1, 1953 to December 31, 1987.
• You were diagnosed with adult leukemia or another condition caused by exposure to contaminants in Camp Lejeune’s water supply.

Camp Lejeune Lawyers can assist you in determining your eligibility for the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit.

They can also guide you in navigating the legal process and work to ensure you receive the compensation and benefits you deserve.

Gathering Evidence for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits

To build a strong Camp Lejeune case, gathering evidence is paramount.

Evidence in Camp Lejeune claims may include:

• Medical records and diagnoses
• Military service records
• Employment records
• Testimony from other witnesses
• Documentation of financial losses due to medical expenses
• Documentation of time spent at Camp Lejeune

It is crucial to secure your evidence quickly, as it may be difficult to obtain after some time.

An experienced Camp Lejeune lawyer can help you collect the necessary documents to support your claim.

Assessing Damages for Camp Lejeune Claims

Damages refer to the total losses incurred as a result of being exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

Camp Lejeune attorneys can help victims assess and calculate damages in their case.

Camp Lejeune victims may be eligible to receive compensation for:

• Medical expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Loss of wages due to illness or injury
• Mental anguish
• Funeral costs, if applicable

How much compensation a victim may receive depends on the specifics of their case, such as when the injury or illness occurred and the severity of its effects.

Determining the damages suffered due to leukemia or other related conditions is complex.

Experienced Camp Lejeune lawyers can help accurately evaluate the extent of injuries and seek appropriate compensation.

TorHoerman Law: Your Camp Lejeune Lawyers

If you or a loved one have been affected by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune and are seeking justice, the experienced attorneys at TorHoerman Law are here to help.

With a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding Camp Lejeune cases, our team is dedicated to fighting for the rights of those impacted by water contamination.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.

You can also use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit instantly.