What kinds of contaminants were in the water supply at Camp LeJeune?
Traverse City, MI – It is believed that the water contamination at Camp LeJeune happened from a few different sources. This likely included chemicals used for dry cleaning, solvents used to clean metal and mechanical parts of military equipment, and fuel leaking from tanks that were stored underground. Many of the contaminants that were in the water from these sources are colorless and odorless, meaning people who were using the water and living in the area at the time probably would not have noticed them. However, the health risks associated with long term exposure and ingestion are serious. People stationed at the base or living in the area could develop cancer, have children with birth defects, or other life changing problems. The CDC has documented and summarized some of the potential issues associated with exposure to these chemicals [1].
Benzene
Benzene is used to make a number of products in the United States such as plastics, rubber, dyes, and pesticides. In fact it is very commonly used by many companies involved in manufacturing various kinds of items that are sold on a daily basis, and it occurs naturally in smoke from fires. Despite its ubiquity, benzene can cause a person to become dizzy or be knocked unconscious when inhaled. Long term exposure can also result in bone marrow and Leukemia.
Vinyl Chloride
Vinyl Chloride is a compound that does not occur in nature. Like benzene, Vinyl Chloride can be used to make PVC and as an ingredient in other plastic products. Exposure to vinyl chloride can be dangerous, as it causes developmental problems, immunity issues, and potential damage to the heart and liver.
PCE
PCE is also called tetrachloroethylene. It is normally used for the purposes of a degreaser for metal parts in aerospace applications, and it can also be used for dry cleaning. This substance can be dangerous when used, as it can carry through the air or water and may not always break down before being inhaled or ingested if not contained properly. Known health problems associated with PCE exposure include dizziness, confusion, nausea, and even death in some cases. People who work in the dry cleaning industry are normally exposed to higher concentrations of PCE than the general population, which also increases health risks.
Additional information about the Camp LeJeune lawsuits
Neumann Law Group is an experienced firm that handles various kinds of lawsuits related to accidents and personal injuries. Their attorneys are available to meet with anyone who needs legal advice related to the Camp LeJeune water litigation.
USAttorneys.com is a website that helps people find local lawyers in their city or state. Anyone who needs assistance can call 800-672-3103 to a licensed attorney.
Firm contact info:
300 E Front St. #445, Traverse City, MI 49684
231-221-0050
www.neumannlawgroup.com
Sources:
- https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/sites/lejeune/chem_descriptions.html
