FEBRUARY 25, 2026 – Did you know that approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed annually in the US? Of these cases, one in three mesothelioma patients are shipyard workers and Navy veterans.
Thousands of employees were exposed to Norfolk Naval Shipyard asbestos, according to the Mesothelioma Center. And this exposure may have serious long-term health consequences. Many affected individuals now seek compensation through VA benefits, lawsuits, or asbestos trust funds.
Here’s what you need to do after a Navy shipyard asbestos exposure to protect your well-being and ensure you have access to the claims you may be entitled to.
Get Medical Attention After Asbestos Exposure
Getting prompt medical attention after Navy shipyard asbestos exposure is very important. Medical intervention at an early stage can help detect potential problems before they get worse. A complete physical examination with an occupational health practitioner will be your first step.
Your practitioner will take your history and may order certain diagnostic tests such as chest X-rays or lung function tests. Be open about your contact with asbestos and any health issue you might be having, even if it seems minor.
Maintain a record of all the doctor’s evaluations, laboratory work, and related expenses; if you require them, they will most probably be extremely useful. Prompt medical attention guarantees that the essential treatment can be started immediately.
What Symptoms Should You Watch For?
Getting medical attention is the first thing to do, and then symptom checking for asbestos exposure becomes the next step. Persistent coughing, shortness of breath, and chest pain are the symptoms that should be reported to the doctor since they may indicate lung problems.
Get ready also for unexplained weight loss and extreme tiredness, as these can be the signs of even more serious diseases. Don’t neglect any face or neck swelling along with tough swallowing. As opposed to common wounds, which can be detected straight away, asbestos-related illnesses sometimes play a long waiting game, even up to years, until the signs start to appear.
Inform your doctor of any changes in your health status. Early diagnosis can be a key for your treatment’s success.
Know Your Legal Rights
People exposed to asbestos in naval shipyards might not be aware of the rights that the law gives them in terms of legal claims. If you are one of the many patients diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, then you have the right to bring forth a lawsuit.
It is very important to realize that you can receive benefits such as medical treatment and compensation for lost wages. You are protected by some laws that guarantee workers like you the right to be compensated while the party responsible for the asbestos-related exposure is punished.
Also take note of the statutes of limitations. An experienced attorney who practices only asbestos-related cases can make you aware of your employees’ rights and direct you in legal procedures.
How to Get Compensation After Asbestos Exposure
Knowing your legal rights is the first step; however, seeking compensation for asbestos exposure is a time-consuming process. The exposure will be proved by getting medical records, employment history, and any information that is related to the conditions at the shipyard where the worker was working.
Hire an attorney who has experience and is a specialist in asbestos litigation. The lawyer can evaluate your claim and help you through the legal process. You might get paid through personal injury lawsuits, workers’ compensation, or asbestos trust funds. Be ready to submit your claim on time, since there are time limits.
Monitor your situation closely and communicate with your attorney so that they can assist you in receiving your money. By taking these actions, you are able to obtain monetary assistance for your health and living condition.
Implement Preventative Measures for Future Safety
There should be safety measures for everyone to minimize the chance of asbestos exposure. It is essential to have knowledge about the locations of asbestos, particularly in old buildings and shipyards.
It should be mandatory to wear safety gear like masks and gloves all the time. Improve your skills and knowledge by attending safety courses on a regular basis. Promote careful work in the company to make sure everyone is aware of the dangers.
Any minute you see a situation that involves asbestos, make sure to inform your boss without delay. Plan for regular medical checkups to detect any signs of diseases related to asbestos and thus prevent issues from growing larger.
Being active and knowledgeable will help you in health matters and will also make you get the support you need. Always keep in mind that your safety and health are the most important things.