Camp Lejeune Rectal Cancer Lawsuit [2023 Update]

Use the chatbot on this page to find out if you qualify to file a Camp Lejeune Claim.

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Key takeaways:

  • The Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit is a legal action against the U.S. government for allegedly exposing military personnel and their families to contaminated drinking water at the Camp Lejeune military base in North Carolina.

  • The contamination, spanning from 1953 to 1987, is associated with several types of cancer, birth defects, and other serious illnesses.

  • Victims of the contamination can file a claim for compensation. TorHoerman Law is actively accepting clients who were effected by the water contamination at Camp Lejeune.

Most Recent Updates:

  • Camp Lejeune claims are being filed and the legal process for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits is developing in North Carolina federal court.

  • Initial and subsequent status conferences are scheduled in the Eastern District of North Carolina, requiring some parties to appear in person.

  • The US EPA recently introduced a proposal to prohibit all uses of trichloroethylene (TCE), which was a main chemical contaminant in the water at Camp Lejeune and has been linked to an increased risk of cancer.

Camp Lejeune Rectal Cancer Lawsuit Overview

On this page, we’ll discuss the Camp Lejeune Rectal Cancer Lawsuit, how the chemicals in the water at Camp Lejeune have been linked to an increased risk of developing Rectal cancer, and more.

Intro to the Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit

Between 1953 and 1987, toxic substances contaminated wells, treatment plants and other sources of drinking water at United States Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

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.

Victims who have developed Rectal Cancer after being exposed to the contaminated Camp Lejeune water supply may be eligible to file Camp Lejeune claims.

The enactment of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act has enabled thousands of Camp Lejeune victims to recover compensation.

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If you or a loved one lived or worked at Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between 1953 and 1987 and subsequently developed Rectal Cancer, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit.

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.

The Camp Lejeune litigation is ongoing and our law firm is speaking to potential clients daily about their situations and strategizing the best path forward.

Reach out to us today and find out how we can help you.

Table of Contents

Lawsuit Updates

November 15, 2023

Our lawyers are still helping people file Camp Lejeune claims, and the process is developing for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits in North Carolina federal court.

The U.S. government has started making settlement offers and payments to individuals affected by contaminated water at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, more than a year after the enactment of the federal law allowing compensation.

According to court documents, three people have accepted settlements totaling $850,000, with two of them already receiving their payments.

The government has made 23 settlement offers so far, while over 117,000 administrative claims and 1,300 lawsuits related to water contamination at the base are pending.

These claims allege health problems, including cancer and miscarriages, due to the contaminated water.

According to reports, the total cost of these claims could reach $3.3 trillion.

Additionally, an unpublished study revealed elevated cancer rates among those who lived at Camp Lejeune, potentially leading to more claims.

The settlements are part of an elective option offering specific amounts based on the nature of the illness and exposure duration.

This option aims to expedite resolution outside of the administrative or litigation process, providing payments between $100,000 and $550,000.

The Honoring our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act signed by President Joe Biden in August 2022 initiated the process for Camp Lejeune claims, acknowledging potential harm to up to one million people due to water contamination from 1953 to 1987.

Additionally, the public is still awaiting the release of a significant “cancer incidence study” conducted by an agency within the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) regarding the health impacts of exposure to contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, a Marine Corps base, from the 1950s to the 1980s.

Although the study concluded several months ago and underwent external peer review, it has not been made public yet.

This delay could have implications for over 1,100 lawsuits seeking compensation for individuals who suffered health issues due to exposure to the tainted water.

The study was initiated in 2015 to investigate cancer cases among those exposed to the contaminated water, and it aimed to provide scientific evidence for the lawsuits.

The litigation was made possible by the PACT Act of 2022, which allowed individuals harmed at Camp Lejeune to file damage claims with the Navy and, if unresolved, pursue lawsuits in federal court.

The delay in releasing the study has raised concerns among veterans and advocates who believe it is essential for establishing the causal link between exposure to contaminants at Camp Lejeune and various diseases.

Some diseases, like kidney and liver cancer, have stronger associations with the pollutants, while others, such as breast cancer, have weaker connections.

There are allegations that the study’s release is being stalled, possibly by the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Navy, as it may raise the scientific evidence for diseases currently categorized as “Tier 2” or lower.

Critics argue that the CDC and its agency, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), should prioritize public health rather than protecting the government from lawsuits.

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 for a free consultation. 

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

November 15, 2023
November 13, 2023

Our lawyers are still helping people file Camp Lejeune claims, and the process is developing for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits in North Carolina federal court.

​​The U.S. government’s stance on the appointment of a “legal representative” for claims related to the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA) under the Camp Lejeune Justice Act has raised complications.

It’s being argued that this representative should not only be appointed by an out-of-state court, but also establish an ancillary estate in North Carolina.

The plaintiffs disagree and contend that the CLJA, specifically Section 804(b), allows a “legal representative” to file a lawsuit, aligning with the standard definition of a person managing a decedent’s estate.

They assert that applying FTCA provisions to CLJA actions is inappropriate because the FTCA doesn’t cover federal causes of action like those under the CLJA or injuries suffered by servicemembers during service.

The CLJA has its unique federal standards, including a waiver of sovereign immunity, indicating that FTCA rules should not generally apply to CLJA cases.

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 for a free consultation. 

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

November 13, 2023
November 3, 2023

Our lawyers are still helping people file Camp Lejeune claims, and the process is developing for Camp Lejeune Lawsuits in North Carolina federal court.

In a federal court case involving the 3M earplug litigation, Judge M. Casey Rodgers labeled scam activities as fraudulent schemes, where scammers targeted potential claimants for a mass settlement fund by soliciting personal information, imitating the settlement procedures.

Despite this being specific to the 3M case, similar deceptive tactics are now emerging in the Camp Lejeune water contamination litigation.

The Camp Lejeune case gained attention due to toxic chemicals contaminating the water supply at the Marine Corps Base in North Carolina between 1953 and 1987.

The Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics Act (PACT) signed by President Joe Biden allowed previously time-barred lawsuits.

Over a thousand lawsuits were launched, and the Department of the Navy initiated an administrative settlement procedure (the “elective option”) to handle the influx of claims. This process aims to expedite compensation without prolonged litigation.

However, scammers are exploiting this situation, mimicking the legitimate process to lure claimants through emails, phone calls, and fraudulent websites, aiming to steal personal information or money.

Some fraudulent activities include promising large payouts, demanding “filing fees,” or misleading claimants to provide sensitive information through fake forms.

Furthermore, some plaintiff lawyers’ marketing strategies might be exaggerating the potential outcomes of the case, raising false hopes and potentially misleading clients about the complexities of the litigation.

The warning here is twofold: potential claimants need to be vigilant against these fraudulent activities, and they should have a clear understanding of the realities and complexities of the case when engaging with plaintiff lawyers and law firms involved in the litigation.

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 for a free consultation. 

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

November 3, 2023

Rectal Cancer Linked to Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune

Rectal Cancer Linked to Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune

An increased risk of rectal cancer has been identified by medical professionals who’ve studied the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune as a particularly common diagnosis.

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) conducted many scientific studies on the Camp Lejeune water supply, and found that residents with long-term exposure suffered from higher rates of rectal cancer, prostate cancer, kidney cancer, liver cancer, and many other deadly forms of cancer.

About Rectal Cancer

The rectum is the lower part of the large intestine, located just above the anus.

Tumor growths in the rectum may be benign if they are localized.

In other words, they pose no threat and will not spread.

However, these tumors become malignant when they begin to metastasize or spread to other parts of the body.

Malignant rectal cancer can be debilitating and life-threatening.

Malignant rectal cancer cells can spread to parts of the body like the large intestine and colon.

Besides the colon, cancer cells from the rectum can also spread to the heart and lungs.

Based on several studies, rectal cancer can also spread to the peritoneum, which is the abdominal lining that protects organs like the stomach and intestines.

Rectal cancer has a high survival rate if it is localized: 90% of individuals survive rectal cancer if it has not spread to other parts of the body.

The survival rate of the disease decreases based on several factors. According to a 2022 study, older patients are more likely to suffer from complications, especially after surgery.

Cancer inside the rectum and cancer inside the colon are often grouped together as “Colorectal Cancer“.

Symptoms of rectal cancer may include:

  • Blood in the stool or bleeding from the rectum
  • Changes in bowel habits, such as persistent diarrhea or constipation
  • Abdominal discomfort or pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Weakness, fatigue

Rectal Cancer Complications

If rectal cancer is not promptly treated, it can lead to significant complications:

  • Spread of cancer cells to other parts of the body (metastasis)
  • Obstruction or blockage of the rectum or colon
  • Bowel incontinence, the inability to control bowel movements

As with prostate cancer, it is important to note that the seriousness of rectal cancer should not be underestimated, even though treatment options and survival rates have improved over time.

It is recommended that individuals over the age of 50, or those with a family history of colorectal cancer, undergo regular screenings such as colonoscopies to detect and prevent rectal cancer.

Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuit Overview

The Camp Lejeune Water Lawsuit involves victims who lived or worked at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune for 30 days or more between 1953 and 1987.

During this time, the military personnel and their family members at Camp Lejeune were exposed to contaminated drinking water that contained several toxic chemicals linked to cancer and other serious health conditions.

The development of illnesses in Camp Lejeune veterans and their family members prompted an investigation into the water at Camp Lejeune.

An eight-year investigation led by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) uncovered more than 48,000 pounds of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the water supply.

After the investigation, the agencies involved — including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention — attributed the development of rectal and other types of cancers to these volatile organic compounds.

Those exposed to the contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune were at an increased risk of developing rectal and colorectal cancer.

Those impacted by Camp Lejeune water contamination are not only those stationed at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.

Service members stationed at Marine Corps Air Station New River may have also been exposed to volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic substances in drinking water.

What Was the Source of Camp Lejeune Water Contamination?

Besides the relationship between the contaminated water and the injuries among the Camp Lejeune residents and veterans, the investigation uncovered the source of the toxic chemicals.

According to the investigation’s findings, the toxic chemicals that contaminated the water at Camp Lejeune originated from several dumping sites and water treatment plants in and around the camp.

With the water at Camp Lejeune linked to cancer, many filed their Camp Lejeune claims to recover VA health care benefits.

Unfortunately, the Department of Veterans Affairs denied a majority of these claims.

The rampant denial of claims prompted the passing of several laws to help Camp Lejeune victims.

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act: Providing a Path to Compensation for Camp Lejeune Victims

In 2022, Congress passed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act.

Under the act, victims can recover compensation by filing Camp Lejeune claims and subsequent lawsuits if their claims are unsuccessful within six months of submission.

The passing of the act was made possible by the hard work and advocacy of veterans and their family members, along with previous legislative attempts at justice such as the Camp Lejeune Families Act.

The Camp Lejeune Justice Act has triggered a surge of claims filed by thousands of victims and their Camp Lejeune attorneys.

Our law firm is representing and guiding many victims through the claims and legal process who have been exposed to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune.

If you were at Camp Lejeune between 1953 and 1987, you may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune claim and seek compensation.

Contact our Camp Lejeune lawyers and let us help you recover your Camp Lejeune settlement.

What Toxic Chemicals Were Found in the Water at Camp Lejeune?

camp lejeune water contaminants

The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry identified four volatile organic compounds in Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water, along with up to seventy other toxic chemicals.

1. Tetrachloroethylene (PCE or PERC)

Tetrachloroethylene is a component of many dry cleaning agents and industrial solvents. It has been linked to several types of cancer, including rectal and bladder cancer.

2. Trichloroethylene (TCE)

TCE is used for degreasing machines and metal parts, in dry cleaning, as an industrial solvent, and in other commercial and industrial applications. Like tetrachloroethylene, trichloroethylene can cause certain types of cancer. Some of the cancers caused by trichloroethylene include non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and kidney cancer. Trichloroethylene can also affect the heart.

3. Vinyl Chloride

Vinyl chloride lines the surfaces of PVC pipes and wire coatings. This chemical compound is linked to several illnesses, including liver cancer, hepatic steatosis, lung cancer, and more.

4. Benzene

Benzene appears in many substances crucial for industrial operations. Based on a report prepared by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, benzene exposure leads to non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and multiple myeloma.

Do You Qualify to File a Camp Lejeune Claim?

Do You Qualify to File a Camp Lejeune Water Lawsuit?

If you have developed rectal cancer from the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, you may be eligible to file a claim and take legal action.

As stated in the Veterans Administration release and the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, anybody who resided at the marine corps base for at least thirty (30) days, while the Camp Lejeune accident was occurring, may be eligible to file a claim.

This includes active duty and former service members, family members living on base, non-military staff, families of deceased, and even in-utero victims who were not yet born when their mother was residing at Camp Lejeune.

It’s important to note that if you were dishonorably discharged, you may not be eligible for disability benefits or disability compensation.

Families of dishonorably discharged military personnel are also not eligible to file suit or apply for benefits.

Gathering Evidence

Quality evidence is the cornerstone of any successful personal injury or mass tort case.

Evidence relating to water contamination can include a number of documents relating to your or a loved one’s time spent at the marine corps base.

Gathering Evidence for Camp Lejeune Claims

Evidence in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit 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

Hiring A Lawyer And Assessing Damages

When you have gathered pieces of key evidence, a lawyer will help you to refine your case and assess damages.

Damages are any losses, both physical and mental/emotional, that a person incurs as a result of an injury at no fault of their own.

Damages are the total amount the defendant is liable to pay to the plaintiff to compensate for the damage that they have caused.

Assessing Damages for Camp Lejeune Claims

Damages in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit may include:

  • Medical bills
  • Pain and suffering
  • Lost wages
  • Disability benefits
  • Loss of companionship, consortium, enjoyment of life, and earning capacity
  • Permanent disability

Determining Liability

Camp Lejeune Lawyers will also establish liability in the case.

Determining Liability in a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit

In a Camp Lejeune contamination case, the liable parties or defendants may include, but are not limited to:

  • The federal government
  • Other governmental or regulatory agencies
  • Businesses that may have contributed to tainted water supplies
  • Any other person or group that acted in a negligent manner that contributed to an injury or diagnosis

TorHoerman Law: Your Camp Lejeune Lawyers

With the Senate passage of the PACT Act, and the final signature of the bill into law by President Biden, Camp Lejeune Water Contamination Lawsuits are able to be filed by any person exposed to contaminated water at the Marine Corps base between 1953 and 1987.

If you or a loved one was exposed to toxic water at Camp Lejeune between these dates, and meet other certain criteria, you may qualify to file a Camp Lejeune Lawsuit.

Contact TorHoerman Law for a free consultation or use the chatbot on our website for a free case evaluation to see if you qualify instantly.

We thank the brave veterans for their service to our country.

Now let us serve you. Our law firm is dedicated to achieving justice for service members and their families.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What Happens to Camp Lejeune Claims That Are Denied or Unanswered by the Navy JAG?

    The Camp Lejeune Justice Act allows victims to file civil cases against the federal government and those responsible for the toxic chemicals at Camp Lejeune.

    To date, thousands of cases have made their way to the US District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina.

  • What Toxic Chemicals Were Found in Camp Lejeune's Water Supply?

    The ATSDR and EPA discovered 48,000 pounds of volatile organic compounds in Camp Lejeune’s water.

    These agencies also discovered traces of other toxic substances, namely:

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

  • Where Were Toxic Substances in the Water First Detected?

    The first traces of toxic water contamination surfaced in 1951.

    Water inspectors detected the first signs of water contamination at Camp Lejeune’s Tarawa Terrace Treatment Plant.

  • Who Lived and Worked at Camp Lejeune?

    Besides Marine Corps personnel, Camp Lejeune housed National Guard members, civilian workers, and the family members of the personnel stationed at the camp.

  • Where Is Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune?

    Camp Lejeune is in the Eastern District of North Carolina near Jacksonville.

    It’s home to the Marine Expeditionary Forces and is a training facility for the Navy and Marine Corps.

  • What Serious Health Conditions Did the Contaminated Water at Camp Lejeune Cause?

    Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water supply led to various types of cancer, including:

    • Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
    • Bladder cancer
    • Kidney cancer
    • Rectal cancer
    • Adult leukemia
    • Cervical cancer
    • Breast cancer

    Besides cancers, the toxic water at Camp Lejeune also led to the following health problems:

    • Lou Gehrig’s Disease
    • Parkinson’s Disease
    • Birth defects
    • Miscarriages

Written By:
Tor Hoerman

Tor Hoerman

Owner & Attorney - TorHoerman Law

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