From the years 1953 to 1987, hazardous substances like trichloroethylene and benzene seeped into the water supply at Camp Lejeune, a crucial Marine Corps base situated in North Carolina. As a consequence of prolonged exposure to this contaminated water, many service members and their families have suffered from various forms of cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and debilitating neurobehavioral problems.
Service members, particularly those from the Marine Corps, and their families who have been exposed to the polluted water at Camp Lejeune Marine Corps base may have the opportunity to pursue compensation for their personal injuries by filing a Camp Lejeune water contamination lawsuit against the United States government.
If you or a loved one resided on Camp Lejeune between 1953-1987 for 30 days and were diagnosed with an illness related to the exposure to the contaminated water on the base then do not hesitate to seek the legal expertise of a Camp Lejeune lawyer.
Neurobehavioral Effects Caused By Water Contamination
Exposure to the polluted water at Camp Lejeune has been strongly linked to the development of neurobehavioral disorders among individuals who resided and worked on the base. These disorders encompass a wide range of symptoms that affect the nervous system, leading to changes in mood, memory, and motor function. those exposed to Camp Lejeune contaminated water are likely to experience a wide range of debilitating symptoms. These symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Dementia and other memory problems
- Tension
- Headaches
- Increased risk of suicide
- Motor function difficulties
- Sensory disturbances
- Insomnia
- Mood swings
- Poor reaction time
- Lack of ability to maintain attention
- Anxiety
- Agitation
- Impulsivity
- Cognitive decline
Assessment of Neurobehavioral Effects of Camp Lejeune Water
To thoroughly assess neurobehavioral functioning and the potential impact of exposure to hazardous substances like volatile organic compounds (VOCs) found in Camp Lejeune’s drinking water, researchers turn to the Neurobehavioral Evaluation System (NES). The NES is an instrumental tool in gauging neurobehavioral effects since it is able to measure various cognitive and motor function capabilities.
Another vital instrument for assessing the neurobehavioral effects of environmental contaminants is the Adult Environmental Neurobehavioral Test Battery (AENTB). The AENTB involves a battery of tests designed to measure motor and cognitive function through tests that use digit span, tapping, simple reaction time, and continuous performance testing.
The AENTB is considered to be a reliable and accurate testing method for determining negative effects related to environmental contaminants. A large number of agencies and organizations have come to rely on the AENTB after its proven effectiveness in several environmental research studies on neurotoxic exposure
The neurobehavioral effects resulting from exposure to Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water are far-reaching and diverse. Symptoms can range from mild cognitive problems to severe neuropsychological disorders. Recognizing and understanding these effects are crucial in offering appropriate support and treatment to those affected by the contamination at Camp Lejeune.
Other Injuries Caused By Contaminated Water
Problems at Camp Lejeune were first noticed when authorities made a distressing discovery— the drinking water at the base had become contaminated with a hazardous mix of chemicals. These chemicals mainly originated from on-site industrial operations and improper waste disposal practices, seeping into the base’s water supply. This revelation sparked severe concerns about the health and safety of the base’s inhabitants, including military personnel and their families, who had now been exposed to potentially life-threatening health risks.
Over the years, the adverse effects of the contaminated water gradually became evident, with individuals exposed to the toxic mixture reporting a range of health problems. The severity of the situation prompted investigations and scientific studies to determine the full extent of the contamination’s impact on the base’s population. Aside from neurobehavioral effects, the contaminated water caused other health problems such as:
- Female infertility
- Miscarriage
- Renal toxicity
- Scleroderma
- Breast cancer
- Bladder cancer
- Esophageal cancer
- Kidney cancer
- Hepatic Steatosis
- Lung cancer
- Leukemia
- Multiple myeloma
- Myelodysplastic syndromes
- Nonhodgkin’s lymphoma
- Neurobehavioral effects
- Parkinson’s disease
The most vulnerable groups harmed by Camp Lejeune contaminated water were pregnant women, infants, and children, who faced the greatest risks of long-term health consequences. In response, the government and military authorities launched extensive efforts to address the situation. Steps were taken to provide medical care and support to those impacted by the contamination. Additionally, new legislation and policies were put in place to prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future. Rigorous testing and monitoring of water supplies became a priority to ensure the safety of military installations and their communities.
Legal Action Over Effects of Contaminated Camp Lejeune Water
Individuals that have been affected by the neurological consequences of Camp Lejeune’s contaminated water have begun to seek legal recourse to hold responsible parties accountable. On August 10th, 2022, President Biden signed the Camp Lejeune Justice Act, which finally allowed for Camp Lejeune water contamination victims to recover compensation for their pain and suffering. Those that were stationed at, lived in, or were in utero at Camp Lejeune between August 31st, 1953, and December 31st, 1987 for at least 30 days and suffered a severe illness due to the contaminated water could file a claim.
Legal claims have been filed against the government, military, and companies involved in the on-site industrial activities and waste disposal practices that led to the contamination. Such legal actions often fall under toxic tort or environmental liability lawsuits.
Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer About Your Camp Lejeune Lawsuit
In conclusion, the neurobehavioral effects resulting from the water contamination at Camp Lejeune have brought to light the devastating consequences of environmental negligence on human health. The toxic substances such as TCE and PCE present in the water have been linked to a wide array of neurological and behavioral disorders, ranging from memory impairments and cognitive deficits to mood disturbances and emotional challenges.
The affected individuals, including veterans and their families, have endured significant hardships, necessitating legal action to seek justice, compensation, and support. Time to file a claim will be limited so it is imperative that you speak to an experienced attorney as soon as possible.