Pennsylvania cancer support group seeks out American veterans

Oct 14, 2009

The Veterans and Cancer Project, a task force set up by a chapter of Gilda’s Club in Pennsylvania, is reaching out to local veterans. Studies have found that U.S. military veterans are 25 to 75 percent more likely to develop certain types of cancer than the rest of the population. Veterans, including Navy veterans, account for over 30% of American mesothelioma patients. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure. Those who served in the military between 1940 and 1970 are at the highest risk of developing asbestos-related illnesses. The Department of Veterans Affairs has identified Agent Orange and other substances that increase cancer risks for vets, and it has created programs to help these vets receive health care for their exposure-related illnesses.

Many veterans may not realize that their cancer is connected to their military service history or that they could be eligible for government benefits. The Veterans and Cancer Project hopes to raise awareness and provide support to veterans and their families. The group hosted their first formal program on September 19 at Doylestown Hospital’s Health and Wellness Center, bringing in a cancer specialist to answer questions and provide information about exposure, health risks and benefits. There are 60,000 veterans in Bucks County, Pennsylvania alone. The task force will hold free monthly programs in the county and surrounding areas to reach out to vets and honor them.

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