Can You Die from Camp Lejeune Illnesses?

 Posted on November 13, 2023 in Personal Injury

The contaminated water at Camp Lejeune, a U.S. Marine Corps base, has caused a range of serious illnesses among military personnel and their families. While the impact of these illnesses can vary, some Camp Lejeune-related illnesses have sadly proven fatal. If you are experiencing an illness related to Camp Lejeune, you have legal options you may not be aware of. To learn about your options, contact an experienced lawyer to guide you through them and get you on the road to recovery as soon as possible.  

Fatal Illnesses Caused by the Toxic Water at Camp Lejeune

• Cancer – This is one of the most severe and potentially fatal outcomes of Camp Lejeune-related illnesses. The contaminated water at the base contained various carcinogens, including volatile organic compounds and industrial solvents. Exposure to these toxins over an extended period has been linked to an increased risk of developing cancer, such as kidney cancer, liver cancer, leukemia, and breast cancer. Sadly, some individuals who were exposed to the contaminated water have succumbed to these aggressive forms of cancer.

• Renal failure – Also known as kidney failure, is another life-threatening consequence of Camp Lejeune-related illnesses. The toxic chemicals present in the water supply can cause significant damage to the kidneys over time. This damage can lead to a sharp decline in kidney function, eventually resulting in renal failure. When the kidneys fail to filter waste and toxins from the body, it can have fatal implications if not treated promptly through dialysis or kidney transplantation. 

• Congenital disabilities – Camp Lejeune-related illnesses have also been associated with an increased risk of congenital disabilities in children born to exposed people. These congenital disabilities can range from mild to severe and can affect various organs and systems in the body. In some cases, these defects can be life-threatening and result in infant mortality or early childhood death. The long-term consequences of exposure to contaminated water during pregnancy can be devastating for both the child and their family. 

• Other serious illnesses – In addition to cancer, renal failure, and congenital disabilities, Camp Lejeune-related illnesses have been linked to various other health conditions, like neurological disorders, autoimmune diseases, and respiratory problems. While these illnesses may not always be immediately fatal, they can significantly impact a person’s quality of life and potentially contribute to premature death.

Contact an Elmhurst, IL Personal Injury Lawyer 

Do not suffer in silence from the effects of your toxic water exposure at Camp Lejeune. For legal guidance contact the experienced Cook County, IL personal injury attorneys with Schwartz Injury Law. Call 708-226-9000 for a free consultation.