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Over one million people, who were present at Camp Lejeune (North Carolina) between 1953 and 1987, may have been exposed to toxic substances in the water.
The Camp Lejeune Contaminated Water Lawsuit can apply to you, a family member, or a loved one who lived at Camp Lejeune (North Carolina) and suffered health effects from the decades of water contamination that occurred.
If you have been exposed to Paraquat and diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease may be eligible to pursue compensation, and entitled to participate in the paraquat lawsuit.
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Without our team, we would’nt be able to provide our clients with anything close to the level of service they receive when they work with us.
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Intro To The Camp Lejeune Myelodysplastic Syndromes Lawsuits
Between 1953 and 1987, water supplies at United States Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune and the nearby Marine Corps Air Station New River were contaminated with several toxic substances and volatile organic compounds (VOCs).
Military members, family members, and civilian workers exposed to these dangerous chemicals have been diagnosed with often fatal medical conditions, including several types of cancer and other diseases.
Exposure at Camp Lejeune has been linked to myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS).
Below, our attorneys look at the studies conducted on the water contamination at Camp Lejeune and evidence linking these substances to myelodysplastic syndromes and other conditions.
If you or a loved one have suffered from toxic exposure at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit.
Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation.
You can also use the chatbot on this page for a free case evaluation and find out if you qualify for the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit instantly.
Our Camp Lejeune lawyers are prepared to represent victims in filing their claims and pursuing Camp Lejeune litigation if necessary.
Reach out to our law firm with any questions or concerns you may have about filing Camp Lejeune claims, the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, and how an experienced attorney can help you.
Table of Contents
Myelodysplastic Syndromes Linked to Contaminated Drinking Water at Camp Lejeune
Exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been linked to a number of health problems.
One of the adverse health effects of Camp Lejeune water contamination is a group of bone marrow disorders known as myelodysplastic syndromes.
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of diverse bone marrow disorders where the bone marrow does not produce enough healthy blood cells.
These syndromes can lead to anemia, increased risk of infections, and bleeding.
Over time, some cases of MDS may progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
“Myelodysplastic” means relating to abnormal development or function of bone marrow cells.
Aplastic anemia and myelodysplastic syndromes are listed on the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) list of health conditions that have a presumptive service connection.
Being placed on the list of conditions that have a presumptive service connection, aplastic anemia and other myelodysplastic syndromes have a causal relationship to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.
If you or a loved one lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between 1953 and 1987 and have been diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune Justice Act claim or pursue a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit.
Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation, or use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify for legal action instantly.
About Myelodysplastic Syndromes
Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) are a group of rare but grave bone marrow disorders that affect the production of healthy blood cells, leading to the overproduction of immature blood cells.
In MDS, the bone marrow fails to produce enough functional blood-forming cells (red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets), leading to various complications.
These conditions are often characterized by ineffective hematopoiesis, meaning the bone marrow can’t produce normal blood cells or fails to produce enough normal blood stem cells.
MDS can occur in people of all ages, but it is most commonly diagnosed in older individuals — typically those over 65.
The exact cause of MDS is not always clear, but exposure to certain environmental toxins and genetic mutations can increase the risk of developing MDS.
Causes of Myelodysplastic Syndromes
While MDS can develop spontaneously in some cases, there is growing evidence linking exposure to specific environmental contaminants to the development of MDS.
Exposure to contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune has been directly linked to the development of myelodysplastic syndromes.
Other risk factors for myelodysplastic syndromes apart from Camp Lejeune water contamination include:
Genetic Mutations: Some people inherit genetic mutations that increase their risk of developing MDS. These mutations can affect the normal functioning of blood cells and predispose individuals to MDS.
Radiation Exposure: Ionizing radiation, which can come from medical treatments, occupational exposure, or environmental sources, can damage bone marrow and increase the risk of MDS.
Smoking: Cigarette smoke contains benzene and other harmful chemicals, which can increase the risk of MDS and other cancers.
Complications of Myelodysplastic Syndromes
MDS can have a profound impact on a person’s health and quality of life.
The complications associated with MDS can include:
Anemia: MDS often leads to a low red blood cell count, causing fatigue, weakness, and pale skin.
Increased Infection Risk: A shortage of functional white blood cells in MDS patients can make them more susceptible to infections.
Bleeding and Bruising: A low platelet count can result in excessive bleeding and bruising, even from minor injuries.
Higher Risk of Leukemia: In some cases, MDS can progress to acute myeloid leukemia (AML), a more aggressive and life-threatening form of blood cancer.
Fatigue: The cumulative effects of MDS and its complications can lead to persistent fatigue and a decreased ability to perform daily activities.
How are Myelodysplastic Syndromes Treated?
While Myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS) can be challenging to treat, several options are available to manage the disease or potentially lead to a cure.
Treatment options for myelodysplastic syndromes include:
Supportive care: Supportive therapy primarily involves blood transfusions, growth factors, and medications to treat symptoms and improve quality of life without directly addressing the disease.
Hypomethylating agents: Drugs like azacitidine (Vidaza) and decitabine (Dacogen), known as hypomethylating agents, can help control the disease by modifying the behavior of the abnormal cells.
Immunosuppressive therapy: Immunosuppressive drugs like antithymocyte globulin (ATG) can be effective for some patients, particularly those with a specific subtype of MDS.
Chemotherapy: While more commonly used for MDS that has transformed into acute myeloid leukemia, certain chemotherapy drugs can be used to treat MDS directly.
Stem cell transplant: A hematopoietic stem cell transplant, often from a matched donor, has the potential to cure MDS but comes with significant risks and is generally considered for younger patients or those with high-risk MDS.
According to the American Cancer Society, the most effective treatment for MDS is stem cell transplant even though most patients are not eligible for this type of treatment.
Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Overview
Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune was the site of toxic water contamination for a period of over 30 years.
Camp Lejeune officials and the military knew about the contaminated wells and water at Camp Lejeune for years, but failed to act.
Scientific evidence published by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and other organizations confirmed the presence of toxic chemicals in the water at Camp Lejeune.
Exposure to contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune has resulted in severe health conditions and complications for former residents and family members.
If you or a loved one were exposed to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim.
Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation, or use our chatbot for a free and instant case evaluation.
For years, former residents of Camp Lejeune were unable to secure health care benefits and other forms of relief.
The Camp Lejeune Families Act of 2012 established pathways to secure VA health care benefits, disability compensation, and other forms of relief for victims, but it wasn’t comprehensive enough to address the breadth of the issue.
In August 2022, President Biden signed the PACT Act into law, which encompassed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.
Under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, victims can submit administrative claims for compensation.
The Navy’s Tort Claims Unit will review relevant information and are supposed to deliver a decision within 6 months of a claim’s submission.
If a Camp Lejeune claim is not adjudicated within 6 months, victims may be eligible to pursue a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit in the US District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina.
Adverse Health Effects Linked to Contaminated Water Supplies at Camp Lejeune
Exposure to the contaminated water supply at Camp Lejeune has been linked to a number of cancer and non-cancer health conditions.
Health problems linked to Camp Lejeune water contamination include:
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, female infertility and birth defects
Many more diagnoses
Service members, their families, civilian workers, and countless others were diagnosed with deadly health conditions and could not secure the desperately needed benefits for years.
What Toxic Substances Were Found in the Water Supply at Camp Lejeune?
The primary contaminants found in the affected water wells were industrial solvents.
Other toxic substances like vinyl chloride and benzene were also detected in the water supply.
The four main toxic substances found in the Camp Lejeune water supply were:
Trichloroethylene (TCE): TCE is a volatile organic compound (VOC) primarily used as a solvent in various industrial processes and applications. TCE is often used as a degreasing agent, solvent, and primary ingredient for aerosol cleaners and spot removers.
Tetrachloroethylene (PCE): PCE, or perchloroethylene, is a chlorinated hydrocarbon solvent widely used in dry cleaning and other industrial applications. Like TCE, PCE is also used as a metal degreaser and paint coating.
Vinyl Chloride: Vinyl chloride is a crucial building block in producing polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a versatile plastic material used in various industries.
Benzene: Benzene is a highly flammable and aromatic hydrocarbon predominantly used as a precursor in manufacturing various chemicals and plastics. You can usually find benzene in detergents and pesticides.
Do You Qualify for the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit?
The Camp Lejeune Justice Act provides a path for individuals to seek compensation for health conditions resulting from exposure to toxic chemicals in the water supply.
If you or a loved one suffered from Camp Lejeune water contamination, you may be eligible to file a claim.
To determine if you or a loved one qualifies for a Camp Lejeune claim, here are some of the most common considerations:
Exposure Period: The contaminated water exposure at Camp Lejeune occurred primarily between 1953 and 1987. You may be eligible if you lived or worked on the base for at least 30 days during this period.
Diagnosis: MDS is one of the health conditions linked to contaminated water, but there are others, including various cancers and birth defects.
Medical Records: It’s essential to gather medical records that document your MDS diagnosis and establish a connection to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.
Experienced law firms can help Camp Lejeune veterans and their family members seek justice through the Camp Lejeune Justice Act and litigation.
Camp Lejeune lawyers will help victims complete the steps necessary to filing Camp Lejeune claims, including the steps of gathering evidence and assessing damages.
Gathering Evidence for Camp Lejeune Claims
Gathering and retaining evidence is extremely important for the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit.
This is a step you can begin on your own, but experience law firms can help clients gather and retain crucial evidence.
To strengthen your Camp Lejeune water contamination claim, you’ll need to gather supporting evidence, which may include:
Documents proving residence at Camp Lejeune
Military service records indicating dates and locations served
Medical records and diagnoses
Medical bills
Travel records
Health care information
Records on disability benefits or VA compensation benefits
Assessing Damages for Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Claims
Damages refer to the total amount of losses, economic or non-economic, suffered as a result of toxic exposure to contaminated water supplies at Camp Lejeune.
Your attorney can help you assess and determine your total damages, advocating for adequate compensation on your behalf.
Damages to consider in a Camp Lejeune claim may include:
Medical bills
Pain and suffering
Lost wages
Disability benefits
Loss of companionship, consortium, enjoyment of life, and earning capacity
Permanent disability
TorHoerman Law: Your Camp Lejeune Lawyers
Navigating a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit can be complex, and having experienced legal representation can be extremely helpful to victims.
At TorHoerman Law, we specialize in helping individuals suffering from exposure to toxic substances like those found in the water at Camp Lejeune.
If you or a loved one were exposed to the contaminated water supply at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim.
Contact us today or use our chatbot to see if you qualify instantly.
Our experienced legal team is committed to helping Camp Lejeune veterans, family members, and others impacted seek the justice and compensation they deserve.
Reach out to our Camp Lejeune attorneys today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are myelodysplastic syndromes considered cancer?
Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) is often referred to as a “precancerous” condition because it involves abnormal cell growth in the bone marrow, which can progress to cancer, such as acute myeloid leukemia (AML).
While MDS itself is not always classified as cancer, it is closely related to the development of certain types of cancer.
What is the Average Camp Lejeune Settlement?
The settlement amount for each individual case will differ based upon the injuries suffered, conditions diagnosed, time spent at the base, and more.
Lawsuit settlements would also contain damages incurred, which can include medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, emotional damages, and more.
Depending on injuries suffered, conditions diagnosed, and evidence available, individual settlement amounts for exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune could be significant.
Camp Lejeune water contamination settlement amounts could be between $10,000 and $500,000 depending on the strength of your case.
These estimates for Camp Lejeune settlement amounts are only estimations based on the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) budget for Camp Lejeune claims.
These estimates are not a guarantee by any means of certain compensation for Camp Lejeune settlements.
Visit this page for more updates on settlement amounts for Camp Lejeune lawsuits as the information becomes more widely available.
Who Qualifies to File a Camp Lejeune Claim?
Individuals who lived or worked at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between 1953 and 1987 may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim or pursue a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit for related health conditions.
The days spent at Camp Lejeune do not have to be consecutive.
People who may be eligible for the Camp Lejeune Lawsuit include:
Camp Lejeune veterans
Active duty military service members who lived or worked at the base during the contamination period
Family members of military service members
Civilian workers at the base
Contractors
Visitors who spent an extended period of time at the base
Two of the eight water treatment plants were heavily contaminated by volatile organic compounds (VOCs), namely the Hadnot Point and Tarawa Terrace.
Of the two, Tarawa Terrace was found to be severely affected.
The primary contaminant found in the Tarawa Terrace water treatment plant was perchloroethylene or tetrachloroethylene (PCE).
Dangerous levels of trichloroethylene (TCE) were found at the Hadnot Point water treatment plant.
Based on historical context, an off-site dry cleaning shop named ABC One-Hour Cleaners was responsible for leaking toxic chemicals to the water treatment plants.
The chemicals found were primary ingredients of dry cleaning chemicals.
At TorHoerman Law, we believe that if we continue to focus on the people that we represent, and continue to be true to the people that we are – justice will always be served.
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