In 1982, the U.S. Marine Corps discovered dangerous chemicals known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in the drinking water at the Camp Lejeune base in North Carolina.
However, the contamination began in 1953 and continued to expose base workers, service members, and their families until 1987, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), though the most contaminated wells were removed from service in February 1985.
The toxic VOCs found in the drinking water included:
- Benzene: Used to make other chemicals that compose plastics, resins, and nylon and synthetic fibers
- Tetrachloroethylene (also known as
perchloroethylene or PCE): For dry cleaning and metal degreasing - Trichloroethylene (TCE): A solvent used to clean metal parts
- Vinyl chloride (VC): Over time, TCE and PCE in groundwater degrade to become VC
Benzene, TCE, and VC are all classified as cancer-causing chemicals, while PCE is classified as probably carcinogenic. Exposure to these chemicals can also increase the risk of birth defects and other health problems.
Servere health risks associated with contaminated drinking water at Camp Lejeune:
- Kidney Cancer
- Liver Cancer
- Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma
- Multiple Myeloma
- Bladder Cancer
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Kidney Disease
- Systemic Sclerosis
- Cardiac Defects
- Pancreatic Cancer
- Breast cancer (Male or Female)
- Rectal Cancer
- Prostate Cancer
- Esophageal Cancer
- Miscarriage
- Infertility
You may be eligible to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit if you or your loved one:
- Was exposed to contaminated drinking water for at least 30 days between August 1, 1953 and December 31, 1987
- Suffered cancer or other health issues related to water contamination at Camp Lejeune
Not sure about your legal options? Our team can listen to your story and let you know what your options may be. There’s no cost to speak with us, and we’re available 24/7.
