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Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Facts
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From approximately 1953 to 1987, military personnel and family members living at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps Base suffered repeated exposure to toxic substances in drinking water.
Those potentially exposed to contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune have suffered from numerous health problems including aplastic anemia, bladder cancer, multiple myeloma, kidney cancer, and other severe health issues.
The widespread emergence of cancers and non-cancer diseases prompted an investigation into two of the Marine Corps base camp’s water treatment plants — the Hadnot Point and Holcomb Boulevard water treatment facilities.
After the investigation, the Marine Corps found traces of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the water supply.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, the Environmental Protection Agency, and the National Research Council stepped in to examine the various VOCs found in the water.
Their findings yielded traces of trichloroethylene, tetrachloroethylene, vinyl chloride, and benzene.
All of these VOCs are toxic chemicals that have been linked to various forms of cancer and non-cancer illnesses.
Benzene, in particular, has been found to cause several maladies like aplastic anemia.
About Aplastic Anemia
Aplastic anemia is a rare medical condition characterized by the bone marrow’s inability to produce sufficient blood cells.
This deficiency encompasses key blood cell types, namely:
- Red blood cells: Responsible for oxygen transport
- White blood cells: Integral to immune function
- Platelets: Crucial for blood clotting
Consequently, individuals with aplastic anemia might experience fatigue, heightened vulnerability to infections, and unexplained bleeding or bruising.
Aplastic Anemia and Its Causes
Aplastic anemia is an often fatal health condition caused by disorders, diseases, medical treatments, and exposure to toxic chemicals.
As an autoimmune disorder, it occurs when the body’s immune system attacks the bone marrow.
Several factors can trigger the autoimmune response that threatens the bone marrow’s ability to produce blood cells.
Besides genetics, evidence suggests that chemical exposure (to VOCs) can contribute to the development of aplastic anemia.
According to the Mayo Clinic, aplastic anemia may be caused by:
- Radiation and chemotherapy treatments
- Exposure to toxic chemicals (specifically benzene, pesticides, and insecticides)
- Use of certain drugs (such as those for rheumatoid arthritis and certain antibiotics)
- Autoimmune disorders
- Viral infections
- Pregnancy (in rare cases)
- Unknown factors
Aplastic Anemia Complications
Delaying medical treatment can lead to complications.
Complications that can arise from aplastic anemia include:
- Infections: The decreased number of white blood cells makes the body more susceptible to infections.
- Bleeding: Insufficient platelets hinder the blood clotting process, potentially leading to prolonged bleeding from minor injuries or cuts.
- Anemia-Related Symptoms: Fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath due to low red blood cell count can significantly impact daily life.
In the worst-case scenario, aplastic anemia can progress to life-threatening conditions.
Among these are shock from bleeding and heart failure.
