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LAWSUITS NEWS & LEGAL INFORMATION

Widow Wins VA Benefits from Agent Orange Exposure

. By
Ozark, MOIt may have been eight years since her husband died from brain cancer, but a woman has won the right to be paid VA benefits from her husband's death. The win also means veteran benefits could be opened up to veterans who developed brain cancer after exposure to Agent Orange. The ruling could have a huge impact on VA disability benefits.

Sheree Evans' husband, Edward, died of brain cancer eight years ago. Evans claimed his death was the result of exposure to Agent Orange in the Vietnam War. Initially, the benefits were denied with the VA claiming Edward Evans' specific type of brain cancer was not included on the list of Agent Orange-related health problems. Evans appealed that decision with the US Veterans Administration. Evans won her appeal—reportedly the first time the VA has admitted that Agent Orange could be linked to glioblastoma multiforme, the brain cancer that Edward Evans died of.

According to the News-Leader (02/17/11), the VA appeals board found there was as much evidence that Evans' brain cancer was a result of his exposure to Agent Orange as not. In such situations, the appeals board rules with the family and allows benefits.

That acknowledgement could mean that other veterans who have the brain cancer, or their survivors, could be eligible for VA benefits. It is not, however, a guarantee that veterans who were exposed to Agent Orange and have glioblastoma multiforme will receive those benefits.

In January 2011, the Department of Veterans Affairs announced that veterans who served in Korea from 1968 through 1971 were likely exposed to Agent Orange, making them eligible for treatment at VA medical centers. Veterans who served in Korea between April 1, 1968 and August 31, 1971 in a unit that operated in or near the Korean demilitarized zone can submit claims for access to benefits.

Meanwhile a proposed budget would give the Department of Veterans Affairs $58.8 billion for operational costs and a further $65.5 billion for veterans benefits. Of that, $208 million will increase benefits for people caring for veterans wounded in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, $270 would go to health issues affecting female veterans and $939 million will go to the VA's homelessness prevention programs, the Washington Post (02/15/11) reports.

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READER COMMENTS

Posted by

on
My husband passed away with agent orange being sprayed on him in Vietnam . He had prostate cancer and kidney cancer he was a diabetic and many other health problems that is hard for me to speak about. I’m getting a small amount of money each month which helps but when Wayne died we also had car payment home payment and several bills. I ended up having his truck reprocessed and I paid off some bills with the $10,000 dollar insurance and I live a different life style since his death now going to food bank for food some months .I don’t like it that my husband died and I want him back. It seems that no one cares but me.

Posted by

on
My father died of leukemia in 2000, He did receive some compensation from Agent Orange before he passed.. Should my mother having been eligible for some VA health benefit?

Posted by

on
IAM IN REMISSION FROM STAGE 3 C THROATCANCER FROM AGENT ORANGE I NEVER SMOKED NO CANCER IN MY FAMILY AND HAVE HAD MEMORY LOSS FOR YEARS AND NOW VERY HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE . I SERVED IN VIETNAM WITH THE AMERICAL DIVISION 1 CORP B BTRY/3RD/82ND ARTY FROM 1970- 71 THE UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT WILL NEVER ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY AT LEAST NOT THE POLITICIANS WE HAVE IN OFFICE NOW .

Posted by

on
If my husband passed a way from agent orange can family members or unborn children who have had contact become affected by this??

Posted by

on
My husband died of Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma. How many vets out there have this type of cancer? You only get it from Chemical Exposure. My husband had two tours in Viet Nam. It was a fight with the VA, but we won. God Bless All of you.

Posted by

on
My husband passed away March 4,2017 from an inoperable glioblastoma brain tumor at age 69. He served in Navy for 26 years beginning on board a destroyer in Vietnam and retiring from a nuclear submarine in 93. I am curious if there others out there who have lost a love one with this combination of service? He was exposed to Agent Orange in Vietnam.

Posted by

on
My husband died of a malignant brain tumor in 2008. He retired from the navy with 20 years. He served 3 tours in Vietnam consisting of 1 year each. He talked about being sprayed with agent orange.

Posted by

on
Does anyone know if there is a time limit to file benfit claims? My father passed away in 1997 from gilomaastrocytoma and I firmly believe it was from agent oragne as he was exposed and injured while serving in the airforce. I would love to get my mother the benenfits she deserved as he was only 49 and she became a single mother of three when he died.

Posted by

on
My husband was in Vietnam still living he dose not think he deserves and help 2004 we found out he has a glioblastoma could not get it out did radiation. he has memory loss. i am lucky to still have him. I just do not know what to do thanks Diane

Posted by

on
My dad passed away 21 years ago from AML that metastasized to his brain and lungs......Dr said it was from Agent Orange but hey guess what....our WONDERFUL gov't won't own up to it!!!!!! So now, I don't have my dad, my boys don't have their papa and my grandson doesn't know his great grandpapa. I'm fighting the gov't and have been for about 7 years. This last appeal I did so much research and sent them specific copies of my dad's medical records and pointed out where they were wrong and that how they diagnosed him was actually against the medical ethics code. I also did research on where my dad served when he was in Vietnam as an Army mechanic and it was in the heart of where they "experimented" with Agent Orange. I have even broken it down on exactly what is caused by Agent Orange and have pointed out that not only could the effects of this chemical cause harm to me, but it cold also harm my grandson!!!! I will fight the gov't until the day I die if I have to!!!! I don't support our gov't on any of their decisions and I never will. They don't care about anyone other than themselves and which country can they screw with next.

Posted by

on
This article is my story- if anyone would like to contact me- Tiger Sheree Evans- my email address- evasher6@cebridge.net -my ph# 417-766-5640 Take Care- Connect anytime- May God Bless!

Posted by

on
My husband a Marine Vietnam Veteran 68/69 was diagnosed with Glioblastoma in November of 2011 he passed away in December 2012, he was 64 years old his VA advocate filed the papers for me to claim service related, but the claim was denied, his advocate a Vietnam vet also died a year after my husband, he had cancer also, what type I don't know, it's a shame how the government is treating it's veterans, when America called these young men answered with their lives, but America has turned its back on these vets and their families, the VA knows better than all of us that this Glioblastoma came from agent orange.

Posted by

on
my husband George was also a viet nam vet sprayed w/agent orange 68/70 a marine...he told me that the spray was so heavy it just soaked them down... he came down with many diseases copd .. diabetes..heart.. kidney failure..prostrate..skin cancer..to name a few..we were married 46 years..right after he came home in 1970..I have recently lost him..he was 65 years old..of course the va tried to deny responsibility..but eventually came around on most issues..I went with him to the va clinics on several occasions..the way the staff treated the veterans was pathetic..very little respect..most of the doctors didn't know what the hell they were doing..upon recently receiving his death certificate it listed his death as possible complications of copd..and diabetes ..NATURAL CAUSES..what the hell is natural about being murdered by an irresponsible government spraying the soldiers with agent orange...guess the azzholes thought none would make it home anyway.. well quite a few did make it home..to come down with diseases and suffer severely 40 years later..I would like to know why the widows who cared for their spouses can't all come together and consider filing a class action law suit..most of us took care of our spouses and now we are left to finish our lives alone..

Posted by

on
My husband served during the Vietnam War as a pilot for the Marines. He never smoked anything in his life. In August, 2011 he was diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis. He passed away December 31, 2011. He was on the top of the list for a new lung as he had never smoked and was a candidate. Unfortunately, because of his 6.4" frame, it took too long to get a lung and his body broke down. I really think he contracted it in Vietnam as he was never exposed to anything known in the U.S. He was only 66. Does anyone else have this situation?

Posted by

on
I'm trying to file a claim for my husband for brain cancer he passed away on June 15. The va says it was not caused by Agent Orange. I believe otherwise

Please can't act me if you have any info

Posted by

on
I am trying to contact all Vietnam veterans with Glioblastoma- Brain Tumors- please email me-I won in2011- this article is my story-since winning I am in connection with so many others & the numbers keep growing- I would like to share with you my recent mission- along with my journey to bring awareness to this terminal devastating cancer. I welcome to hear from you-as of last year I am 100% disable- take care- Peace & Good Will!
www.salem-news.com/articles/february182011/edward-evans-tk.php
https://youtu.be/_rfKscdaNqA

Posted by

on
I was in U-Tapao, Thailand in 1968, and in the Vietnam delta and in Danang in 1975. Had prostate cancer in 2000 and have had idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis for the past six years.
Time to seek out VA insights, I suppose.

Posted by

on
I served in the Viet Nam war from 1969-1971. I am a 20 year active duty retired Marine. In 2003 at age 55, I was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I had the seed implant followed up with radiation treatment. Nearly 7 years later at age of 60, I was diagnosed with brain tumor requiring surgery to remove tumor. The surgeon could only remove 70% and I had 30 treatments of proton radiation soon after the surgery. I have agent orange and since ependymomas are rare in adults, I put in a claim thru V/A. To date the V/A has denied my brain tumor claim because it is not on their "list" of agent orange exposure. Anyone out there have any suggestions?

Posted by

on
CAN SOMEONE PLEASE HELP ME! My husband passed
away 3 years ago. HE was a retired Colonel in the Army.
He was in Viet Nam and subjected to Agent Orange.
Prior to his passing he was diagnosed and being treated
for multiple Mylenoma and Hypertension. If he did not file
a claim for benefits with the Va prior to his passing, does he precluded me from filing a claim?

Posted by

on
My husband was in korea in the vietnam war an he died in 2003 from glioblastoma an I was denied benefits for my children an myself. How sad it is to read all your stories, anyone who has watched there loved one die of glioblastoma know how they suffer for nine months to a year an there is nothing you can do to help them.An how sad to know the gov. Just dosen t give a fuck about the children or wives or how they are going to live.im sorry you all had to endore that pain Jayne Arnold

Posted by

on
I was a member of the USN security group stationed in Danang along with the VSQ 1 detachment in the years 1968/1969. I was there when the amo dump was compromised and erupted into multiple explosions. I was diagnosed with Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis on January 19, 2012. I was exposed to Agent Orange as well as all the fumes associated with airfield operations. I am wondering if any of my fellow navy or marines CT,s have been diagnosed the same. Thanks and God bless.

Posted by

on
My husband was diagnosed March 14, 2013 with Glioblastoma Multiforme Stage 4. Within days he had brain surgery and within 2 weeks he was paralyzed. He had a second brain surgery on March 2014, in January 2014 the MRI showed it was growing and that is why they did the 2nd brain surgery. He lived 18 months paralyzed and several other related service connected diseases (diabetes, PTSD, neoropothy). After several attempts to get the Glioblastoma Multiforme service connected they denied. He believes this came from serving his country 2 years in Vietnam. He died August 31, 2014. I have been struggling to understand why would the government allow my husband who volunteered to service a country he believed in would allow my husband to die and not accept the responsibility and honor a man that honored his country. We made plans to get old together and we were not given the opportunity. Please help me.

Posted by

on
My husband served in Sattahip, Thailand, from February 1990 to April 1971. He told me the Army base was sprayed with Agent Orange a few days before his arrival there. In June of 1999, after 2 surgeries, radiation, going through a clinical trial and then 1 round of chemo, he succumbed from a Glioblastoma Multiforme. I have always wondered if his exposure to Agent Orange had anything to do with it. Does the VA still deny correlation between Agent Orange and brain tumors? Thanks, Everybody.

Posted by

on
My Father spent 30 years in the Marine Corps. Retired Lt. Col. he was exposed to agent orange in Viet Nam and died of Multiple Myloma cancer due to his agent orange exposure. After the Marine Corps he spent 17 years at the Pentagon overseeing the TCS program. A radar component that sat under the nose of the F14 Tomcat fighter jet. After 30 years, 3 wars, 17 years at the pentagon, 2 years President of his local lions club.....His Claim was denied because my Mothers first husband was a Marine Corps fighter pilot, shot down in WW11 and never found. She receives a very small monthly check for her first husband. This is soooooooooo wrong. Its all about the money...Obama and our Government waist BILLIONS and BILLIONS of dollars on failed politics and our veterans suffer. It`s an absolute obimination of God. Our troops are sent overseas to fight failed politics not national security. Makes me sick.

Posted by

on
My husband served in Vietnam in 1965 /66 and was exposed to Agent Orange he now was diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme Stage 4 terminal Brain cancer 2014 , his doctor believes it is a cause of Agent Orange we filed a claim last year and it was denied ,yet they stated in a booklet herbicide connected .Our lives have been turned upside down and will never be the same he is in his last stages of his life . I will miss him terribly .It is difficult to watch the changes he is going thru .We have refiled his claim . I will not stop this fight for his rights due to him ,he served his country when he was called on.

Posted by

on
My husband served in Vietnam 1969-1970. He was drafted into the Marine Corps. He was proud of his service in spite of the general feelings about Vietnam. Art was exposed to Agent Orange and contracted Ischemic Heart Issues by the time he was 37 years old. As soon as the Government acknowledged Agent Orange as the culprit, I began to submit a claim. He died at the age of 46 leaving me with three children. I was a stay at home mom so I had to go back to school to complete a college degree, I helped 2 of the children with college expenses (although they were both saddled with heavy debts as well, eventually lost our home and accrued huge debt having to close a business that Art could no longer help with after his heart disease surfaced. I was 44 years old when he died. Long story short - my claim was denied even though I had medical proof, extensive paperwork, letters to Senators, Congress people asking for help. I was denied, according to the letter because I had remarried 6 years after his death. I was 44 years old and it took almost 40 years to admit that Agent Orange was the cause of so many Veterans issues. I need help. Where do I go from here. Can anyone give me more direction. My claim was not for a life time of benefits but strictly for the time before I remarried and was widowed. I have college and parent school loans that will never get paid off. As I stated, I had to sell my home at a loss (rather than lose it), I still have accrued debt from the business, little life insurance because of a "pre-existing condition" and medical expenses because for his last hospital stay he had no medical insure - again pre-existing conditions. If there anyone who can point me in the right direction to help with this claim. I did appeal the decision but was denied a second time. Thanks to anyone who can offer advice. Linda

Posted by

on
my husbands Name is DEAN SOWES and he was murdered by V.A WADSWORTH he was exposed to AGENT ORANGE for 2 terms in VIET NAM he was in three areas were he said he would get soaked when they sprayed to kill all the plants and trees big huge trees they would wilt up in just a day or to and the men would have to trug through it , to find the men they were told to kill. He got sick in 2007 and was never told he was stage four but you see he had a PPO and Medicare and that can pay the big wigs a nice paycheck on my husbands life . They kept telling us he would and could live with NODULS for 20 years and not be concerned , my husband was a strong MAN 65 AND ABOUT 200 POUNDS until 26 days before he died in 2011 but at WADSWORTH IN LOS ANGELAS tthey TORTURED HIM AND HE SUFFERED AT THE HANDS OF THE DOCTORS THERES SO AMNY OTHERS only 26 days before he died we were told he was and had been stage 4 and had just a months I was in disbelief why did they LIE TO US FOR THE INSURANCE THATS WHY because had we known this in 2007 we could have made a game plan and just enjoy our last years instead of going to WADSWORTH 5 DAYS A MONTH for the TEST they took and ran up medical bills it cost us 1000 of dollars to stay in hotel eating out and driving and they never cared about US ONE BIT EVEN WHEN THEY TOLD ME HE WAS DYING IT WAS IN A LETTER SERVED TO ME BY MAIL WHILE HE WAS IN THE HOSIPTAL AT WADSWORTH PLEASE SOMEONE HELP ME FIGURE THIS OUT .AND DONT CALL ME UNLESS YOU CAN 661 256 4492 don't email mail me I don't know how to use EMAIL.

Posted by

on
My Husband Dean Sowers was told by V.A WADSWORTH in 2007 that he had noduals on his LUNGS and nothing to worry about , he was in VIET NAM FOR 18 MONTH IN 1964 and then gave him chemo emblasation and said nothing to worry about this went on for 2 years giving him medications etc test and more test my husband had a PPO AND MEDICARE A,B D. HE was the cash COW FOR THE VA. AND HE WAS DYING ALL ALONG , then in 2011 all of sudden he was told that it was in his lungs but not to worry with more test and medication he would live 20 years or more.Then in 2011 july he fell apart and his belly filled with acides fludid and he suffered at the has of DR AT V.A. WADSWORTH they wouldn't allow me to take him home or to hospice until 3 days before he died they tortured both of us we were prisoners at that hospital and told me if I removed him I would be held on man slatter charges if he died in route to another hospital. Like Cedars SO I SUFFERED SO MUCH its not even human , I watched them hurt him destroy him daily and now I a very sick widow and almost ready to lose my home from all the expence it cost us at the hands of the V.A. WADSWORTH I need some one to help me before I end my life its very hard knowing that I let them hurt him because I trusted DR SHARMA AT THE V.A WADSWORTH AND THE OTHER DR WHO MUDERED HIM DAILY . I NEED SOME CLOSER THEY KILL VETS THAT ARE 100 PERCENT SO THEY CAN KEEP THE MONEY FOR THERE LOSEY JOBS I HATE THEM ALL AND THEY KEPT SAYING THEY WERE SORRY SORRY FOR WHAT KILING MY HUSBAND AND SO AMNY OTHERS YOU SEE I STAYED WITH MY HUSBAND 24/7 FOR 26 DAYS BEFORE HIS DEATH AND WITNESS ALL THAT GOES ON AT NIGHT THE DOORS GET STUT AND THE MEN ARE LEFT ALONE SCREEMING FOR PAIN MEDS AND WATER AND DIAPERS TO BE CHANGED WHILE THE NURSE ARE ON HOTEL .COM AND CLOWNING AROUND TIL 530 AM AND THEN THEY GO IN MEDCATE TO MEN SO IT LOOKS LIKE THEY WERE CARED FOR DURING THE NIGHT BUT I SEEN WITH MY OWN EYES AND ALSO HAVE WITNESSES OF ALL THIS ITS ON EVERY FLOOR BUT WE WERE ON THE FOURTH FLOOR OF HELL CAN ANYONE OUT THERE PLEASE HELP ME FIGURRE OUT WHATS RIGHT AND WHY THEY ONLY WANTED HIS MEDICAL INSURANCE I HATE SEEING ALL THOSE SIGNS WE HELP OUR VETS REALLY THATS A FUCKING LIE I AM VERY SICK ON A NUMBER OF MEDICATION JUST TO GET THROUGH THE DAY WITH OUT MY HUSBAND WHY DIDNT THEY TELL USE HE WAS DYING SO WE COULD HAVE GOT OUR DUCKS IN A ROW AND THEY ARE MURDEREDS IF YOU HAVE GOOD INSURANCE PLEASE I NOT EDUCATED AS YOU CAN SEE BUT I AM A HUMAN BEING AND NEED A ANSWER TO ALL THIS IF THEY HAD JUST BEEN HONEST WE COULD HAVE AVOIDED ALL THEY TEST AND SPENT OUR LAST YEARS TOGETHER INSTEAD OF SPENDING 6 TO 8 DAY IN los angelas doing test on a man who was dying oplease help me befor e I go to the grave so I will know I did help my sweet and loving husband he is a good man THANK YOU FOR REDING THIS I HOPE I MADE SENCE THANK YOU AND PLEASE HELP ME. MRS PAMELA SOWERS DEANS LOVING WIFE UNTIL TIME RUNS OUT.

Posted by

on
Has anyone ever heard of a thing called white lung, my husband was diagnosed with this after serving 21 years in the U.S Navy for 21 years and ended up dying from it . Its from moving large rocks. Now I am fighting to get my widows pension that they are trying to refuse me. Anyone have any suggestions to a good lawyer for this.

Posted by

on
My husband served two tours in Viet Nam and now @ 69 he has lost his life to a gleoblastoma 4 (and a rare
type).

Posted by

on
I have gone througth the same problem with VA for 40 years fight. I call on State Sentor on Capitol Hill.,and my President Omabdeletrefa he will anwer back. My husband died with a brain tumors and left daugtherd that inherited the diseases. I can tell you how i am get death benefits back paytment that entititment to the widows. Email/ncrobertson58@gmail.com /202 740/0775. We need as widows work together. VA is back up, glicth in the widows benefits or spreed the uand deleted records.

Posted by

on
My husband diagnosed with hodgkins lymphoma served in korea in 1972-73 anyone been diagnosed with this. He also has type two diabetis.

Posted by

on
My father was diagnosed with stage IV Glioblastoma in March 2011, he had three surgeries, radiation and chemo, several experiment treatments because he wanted to live. He was an inspiration and never gave up. On, May 31st 2013 he lost his battle with brain cancer, there was nothing more they could do to help him.

We filed a claim with VA and it was denied, June 2012.

Does anyone have a similar situation?

I appreciate any feedback you might have.

Thank you in advance.

Cpt. Joseph S. Bondick service in the U.S. Army, he served in Vietnam

Posted by

on
Has anyone who served in Viet Nam known anyone who has passed from Pulmonary Fibrosis? My husband served in Viet Nam from 1966 to 1967. He did not get shot by the Viet Cong or from stepping on a bomb, instead he was sent home with a death sentence from being sprayed not only one time but, three different times. He first had thyroid problems shortly after returning home, then he had type two diabeties, and had an enlarged right lower lobe of his heart and finally Pulmonary Fibrosis. By the way the Doctors knew he had it for two years but, did not tell him about all his problems. He went to a local DR and he also had it written down in his paper work but did not write down Pulmonary Fibrosis. It was not until he went to a specialist that he found out what he had. By then it was too late to save him. In WA state you can not have a transplant if you are 70 well he was almost 71 by the time he was told what he had. He was on oxegon all the time. He only lasted about three months when he could not even get up off his chair or get to the bathroom on his own. He needed help with everything from dressing to bathing to eating. Now it has been almost five months since I sent his death certificate in and was told not to call them , they would get in touch with me....well, I have called every number I have been given ,sent a letter to our congress woman and still no response...is there anyone out there that can lead me in the right direction to find out if I am going to get any kind of death benefits , my husband was drafted as were most of the men serving at that time and it was the U.S. Government that gave him and many others death sentences.....I just don't understand why it should take so long to get any kind of response from the VA. I need to know, as do any others that are having problems getting information. They make it impossible for anyone to get information we need. I am not a lawyer and don't know how to work the system......
I myself have Champ VA and everything I send in is returned with something wrong one it or something missing a code....why can't they just read the darn bill and see what has come from me and not paid by anyone else?

Posted by

on
NEW INFO ON AGENT ORANGE FOUND RECENTLY IN OKINAWA! IF YOU ARE A VETERAN OR KNOW A VETERAN WHO HAS BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH GLIOBLASTOMA MULTIFORME YOU MUST READ THIS ARTICLE! This documents barrels found contained Agent Orange components as well as PCB's (Polychlorinated Biphenyls). PCB's are known to cause Cancer.

Levels of Agent Orange ingredients found in Okinawa City exceed Environmental Quality Standard
Investigation results revealed the highest values of dioxins exceeded the Environmental Quality Standard.
August 1, 2013 Ryukyu Shimpo
The Okinawa Defense Bureau detected dioxin and other harmful ingredients inside the barrels found at a soccer ground on land returned by the U.S. military in Okinawa City. The levels found exceeded the Environmental Quality Standard set by the Japanese government.
The Okinawa City Government released the results of their investigation on July 31.
They detected dioxin in fouling material at a level 8.4 times the normal standard for soil, and in the water it was 280 times the standard for groundwater. They found the key ingredient of Agent Orange in the barrels. The city government asked Nansei Environment Laboratory Co. to carry out the investigation.
The company said the barrels possibly contained Agent Orange because they bear the logo of the Dow Chemical Company, the United States based chemical manufacturer that produced Agent Orange during the Vietnam War.
The city government explained the results to the central and prefectural governments and city assembly on July 31.
That afternoon, the assembly held a meeting of its special committee investigating U.S. military base issues. The committee unanimously adopted a statement in which they asked the Japanese government to carry out a full-scale investigation and restore land returned by the U.S. military to its proper state. A special session of the assembly adopted the statement on August 5. The bureau found the key ingredient of Agent Orange–2, 4, 5-T, trichlorophenoxyacetic acid, in 18 of the 22 analytes from the barrels. They did not detect the other key ingredient of the defoliant–2, 4-dichlorophenoxyacetic. The bureau detected polychlorinated biphenyls in 11 of the 22 analytes. The highest value was 3.2 milligrams per kilogram at a level 6.4 times the standard.
The Nansei Environment Laboratory Co.’s report indicated that the composition of the dioxins in the barrels is related to Pentachlorophenol found in pesticides and herbicides. Levels of arsenic and fluorine found were slightly higher than the standard. The company suggested that harmful substances, including Agent Orange caused the pollution of the soil and groundwater at the site.
Of the 22 analytes from the barrels, two exceeded the normal standard for soil. The highest value was 8,400 picograms TEQ per gram. The level of dioxin in the water around the soil was 280 picograms TEQ per liter. The bureau found a large quantity of 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo, an ingredient unique to the defoliant. It is possible that the barrels contained dioxin related to Agent Orange because the ingredient accounted for 70 percent of the chemical.
Levels of dioxins found in the surface layer of the ground, surplus soil and the soil of land returned by the U.S. military in what was Camp Lester were substantially lower than the standard.
The bureau found 340 picograms of dioxin TEQ per gram, which is lower than the standard in the soil. However, it is higher than the level that requires caution: 250 picograms TEQ per gram. http://english.ryukyushimpo.jp/2013/08/08/11111/

PCBs and Dioxin May Cause Brain Cancer

Introduction
The studies in this section show a possible link between PCBs and dioxin exposure, and the later development of brain cancer. (PCBs are frequently contaminated with dioxins.) Several occupational studies have found significant increases in brain cancer associated with PCBs. Other studies find that children may develop brain cancer due to the parents' earlier chemical exposures.
It is well-established that PCBs damage the human immune system, which may be the mechanism whereby PCBs are linked to brain cancer http://www.foxriverwatch.com/brain_cancer_intro.html
PCB is a principal component of Agent Orange
The History of PCBs
1949 --- An explosion occurred at a Monsanto chemical factory in Nitro, West Virginia; as a result, many workers in the plant were exposed to the herbicide 2,4,5-T, which was contaminated with dioxin. (This herbicide was later the principal component of Agent Orange, the chemical defoliant used by the U.S. in Vietnam.) http://www.foxriverwatch.com/monsanto2a_pcb_pcbs.html
Jon Samet at Johns Hopkins did a study of a cluster of gliomas among Maryland firefighters. Report issued in 2005 "
An occupational health investigation of cancer among fire fighters in Anne Arundel County, Maryland"
This report provides the findings of a ten-month study requested by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene of a possible cancer cluster among fire fighters in Anne Arundel County, Maryland. Fire fighters are exposed to smoke from a variety of materials, and the smoke is known to contain carcinogens. An exposure of particular concern in this case was to smoke from fires set at the Anne Arundel County Training Facility. For a reported period of 9 years, from 1971-1979, the training fires used waste oils provided by BGE that were contaminated with polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Consequently, a substantial number of fire fighters and instructors were exposed to PCBs, along with compounds generated by their combustion. This multi-part investigation addressed key issues related to this exposure including characterizing the cluster and evaluating potential exposures to PCBs and their combustion by-products of fire fighters who participated in training fires at the Academy, assessment of applicable scientific literature, and consideration of research that might provide greater insight into the risks sustained by fire fighters. We conducted interviews with fire fighters that covered demographic, occupational, and medical information. In the case of the Anne Arundel County fire fighters, the accounts of the training fires and the use of PCB-contaminated oil establish that participants in the training exercise were exposed to PCBs through both inhalation and the skin. The PCBs are classified as a probable human carcinogen by the International Agency for Research on Cancer of the World Health Organization and the National Toxicology Program of the U.S Department of Health and Human Services. Some of the toxic compounds that would have been generated by the combustion of PCBs, include another group of compounds, polychlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins that are classified as carcinogens. The doses of the carcinogens received by the fire fighters, which would predict risk, cannot now be reconstructed, and it is therefore difficult to judge what doses were received, as the basis for estimating cancer risk for either the group or individuals. Measurements of levels of PCBs in tissues would probably not be informative, given the number of years elapsed since exposure ended. Seventeen fire fighters (all male) contacted us to report a diagnosis of at least one form of cancer. Respondents ranged in age from approximately 30 to 70 years. Cancers reported include bladder, brain, colon, leukemia or non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, lung, prostate, and skin. Skin cancer was the most commonly reported cancer, representing 47% of the cancers. Excluding skin cancer, brain cancer (n=2) and leukemia/lymphoma (n=3) were the most common forms of cancer at 22% and 33%, respectively
Avima Ruder, Ph.D.
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Mailstop R16, 4676 Columbia Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45226 USA
amr2@cdc.gov
(001)(513) 8414440 (voice)
(001)(513) 8414486 (fax)

Study #3
• PCBs are known to deposit preferentially in nervous tissue
• Study examined two PCB-exposed workers with brain cancer
• Researchers urge more studies of link between PCBs and brain cancer
Polychlorinated biphenyls have been shown to be carcinogens in animal studies. Because of lipid solubility and lack of biodegradation, they are known to deposit preferentially in fat and nervous tissue. In this report, we describe a 31-year-old male with prolonged polychlorinated biphenyls exposure who developed glioblastoma multiforme [brain cancer]. Fat biopsy documented the presence of markedly elevated PCB levels. A co-worker also developed a malignant astrocytoma [brain cancer]. The nature of PCBs and their role in human carcinogenesis are discussed. The possibility of an etiologic link between PCBs and brain tumors should be further investigated. (Petruska et al, 1991) ) http://www.foxriverwatch.com/brain_cancer_studies.html
Study #4
• increased incidence of brain cancer among workers who had more than twice the estimated cumulative PCB dose than the comparison group
NIOSH conducted a retrospective cohort study of workers manufacturing electrical capacitors with known exposure to polychlorinated biphenyls (1336363) (PCBs) in an effort to further evaluate the carcinogenicity of PCBs. The study cohort manufactured electric capacitors in the midwest United States beginning in 1957. PCBs were used as a dielectric fluid until late in 1977 when they were replaced with isopropyl-biphenyl (25640782). Aroclor-1242 (53469219) was used through 1970 and Aroclor-1016 (12674112) was used afterwards. Included in the analysis were 3588 men and women employed for at least one day between January 1, 1957 and March 31, 1977. The results provided some evidence for an association between PCB exposure in an occupational environment and mortality from malignant melanoma. There was an increased incidence of brain cancer among workers who had more than twice the estimated cumulative PCB dose than the comparison group. The authors conclude that this brain cancer observation suggests that this outcome be carefully observed in further followup of this cohort. (Sinks et al, 1991) http://www.foxriverwatch.com/brain_cancer_studies.html
Study #8
• A statistically significant higher concentration of PCB was found in extracted lipids of adipose tissue samples from terminal brain cancer patients
A statistically significant correlation was demonstrated between the content of PCB and DDE in lipids extracted from subcutaneous abdominal tissue of terminal patients and their age. A higher concentration of PCB and DDE was found in extracted lipids of adipose tissue samples from terminal cancer patients (malignant lymphoma, retroperitoneal carcinoma, glioblastoma, adenocarcinoma, cancer of the breast, mesothelioma, carcinoma of the cervix, pulmonary carcinoma, cancer of the rectum, cancer of the colon, lymphosarcoma, etc.) than in the adipose tissue of patients who died of other diseases. This difference was statistically significant. The results are discussed and the need for further investigations of a possible cause-effect relationship between exposure to organochlorine compounds and neoplasias is stressed. (Unger et al, 1980) ) http://www.foxriverwatch.com/brain_cancer_studies.html

Posted by

on
Yesterday i went to the VA office for my husband case . I was
there to continue for my husbands claim . Actually my husband pass away he will be one year on April 9 this month . and he died with lung cancer and left me and our son ,6 years old. The lady at the VA said that my husband has no record to prove that he was in Korea and Vietnam , an thats the reason that the VA keep denying my husbands claim and now my husband is gone , i am trying to survive. If any one had the same situation as me please feel free to e-mail me .

Posted by

on
In 2011 my husband was diagnosed with stage 3 tonsilar canser.They wanted him to take chemo & radiation but he was allergic to the chemo so he took radiation.After treatment was done they said he was cancer free,5 to 5 months later he could not swallow water without it coming thru his nose.They said they would have to put a trek in to get him ready for chemo because it has come back veruios. Years before this they took polyps off vocal cords several times and said borderline for cancer but never offered any treatment until it was to late.We fought with them saying we knew it was related from agent orange because he was in Viet Nam from 1968-70.After he finished his radiation,and sending letters to govener they finally said it was from agentorange and only awarded him 1 year backpay. His va rep said it was not right but at the time we took it.I think I should be able to go back and file for all the years since they were taking the polyps off his vocal cords along with all his other medical problems.Would like to know if you think I have that right as his widower and who should I contact? Thank you for listening.

Posted by

on
My husband was in Viet Nam. The VA determined that his death was due to a service connected injury with no rating because he never pursued one. I do receive the DIC but benefits would be greater had they given him a rating. He gave them 30yrs. of his life.

Posted by

on
my husband 62,also a vietnam vet, was told a month ago he has brain cancer, he had brain surgery they removed only half of it , he starts radiation next week 5 times a week for 6 weeks , start kemo next week too ,they give him 12 to 14 months, i pray every morning and night for him ,our family prays they are wrong, it just isnt fair, he fought for his country now he is fighting for his life,,,,,,,

Posted by

on
My husband was diagnosed with a Grade IV Glioblastoma multiforme last July, 2011. A doctor at John Hopkins did surgery last August. His left side was completely paralyzed after surgery and was in rehab for 2 months. He has 6 weeks of radiation/chemo and 6 months of chemo (Temodar). He has to have MRI's every 2-3 months. Chemo finished up in April and so far there are no new lesions. We just got denied for the 2nd time yesterday by the VA. I agree with another article I read from a wife that their presumptive disease list is a joke. I have read so much information on so many Viet Nam vets getting glioblastomas in their 50's and early 60's. Did they think this was going to show up immediately or a year after their service after being exposed to Agent Orange? My husband was stationed in DaNang and served two tours in VietNam with the Marines. They mixed the toxins and flew out from there to spray. And he was in those combat areas where it was sprayed.

My husband is a registered nurse and he knows what he is up against. The VA rep that was supposedly helping us did not help us and then was transferred to another county. His secretary is now trying to help the veterans in our county and I believe she does not have the experience to help us. I have tried to overturn every stone that would be helpful. My husband served his country, he deserves this benefit now, and I want to make sure he sees this before it is too late.

We now have to prove the association between Agent Orange and Glioblastoma's. Does anyone out there have any material we can use when we appeal?

Thanks.

Posted by

on
My husband served 2 tours in Veitnam . First on the USS CORPUS CHRISTI, and then in 1971 and 72 he was on whiskey mountain. He applied twice for benefits once in 83 and then in 87. He passed away in 93 without seeing s penny. I am still waiting .it is suppose to be in final review. I am almost 70 so I hope I live long enough to get it . Want to say thanks to everyone who served and who had spouses there. God be with us all.

Posted by

on
First I must say all vets feel for the loss of your husband and the void and grief you now are suffering. As brothers-in-arm to your husband, we are concerned and are available to assist you obtain the financial and emotional benefits provided to a Veteran's widow through government agencies and other organizations. These services are provided at no cost to you. To begin the submission process for benefits contact your local VFW, AMVET, American Legion Chapter or myself; I lost my 58 year old twin brother to Agent Orange the day after Easter last year, compiled the submission packet for my sister-in-law to obtain a VA Widow's Pension, resulting in her approval and receiving her first monthly check and back payment... two weeks prior to the first anniversary of his death.

Posted by

on
My husband just died from Agent Orange from Vietnam and they should take care of us. Loss my husband at a young ago and i am loss to know end. I needed him so much now he is gone and i am loss.
Jo Ann

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