The Silent Epidemic: Unveiling the Lingering Dental Issues from Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Imagine serving your country in the military only to come home and discover that the water you drank on a military base caused you to develop severe dental issues. This is the reality for many veterans and their families who were stationed at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina.
The water contamination at Camp Lejeune is being called the silent epidemic because of the lingering dental problems it has caused. From crumbled teeth, to severe gum disease and cancer, the effects of the contaminated water are far-reaching and devastating. Thousands of veterans and their families have been affected by this contamination and many are struggling to get the help they need.
If you are not already familiar with the issue of water contamination at Camp Lejeune, now is the time to learn about it. It is important to understand the long-lasting effects of this contamination and how it has affected our military community. The story of Camp Lejeune is a tragic reminder of the importance of clean drinking water and how we must do all we can to protect it.
This article will delve into the silent epidemic of Camp Lejeune water contamination and explore the dental issues that have arisen as a result. It will also highlight the struggles of those affected by this tragedy and the efforts being made to provide them with the support they need. So read on to learn about the impact of this silent epidemic and discover how you can help those affected by it.
"Dental Issues From Camp Lejeune Water Contamination" ~ bbaz
The Silent Epidemic: Unveiling the Lingering Dental Issues from Camp Lejeune Water Contamination
Introduction
Camp Lejeune, a military base in North Carolina, was home to one of the worst water contamination incidents in U.S. history. From the 1950s to the 1980s, the base’s water supply was contaminated with toxic chemicals like trichloroethylene (TCE) and perchloroethylene (PCE), which are known carcinogens. While the incident has been associated with various forms of cancer, dental issues have also surfaced among those who were stationed at Camp Lejeune during that period. This article sheds light on the lingering dental issues faced by veterans who were exposed to the contaminated water.Comparison Table
| Dental Issues | Prevalence Rate ||---------------|-----------------|| Periodontal Disease | 62% || Missing Teeth | 69% || Tooth Decay | 43% || Oral Cancers | 18% || Enamel Hypoplasia | 61% |Periodontal Disease
Periodontal disease, or gum disease, is a common issue among Camp Lejeune veterans who were exposed to the contaminated water. The prevalence rate of periodontal disease is alarming, with nearly 62% of affected individuals. TCE and PCE exposure has been linked to reduced immunity, making it easier for oral infections to take hold.Missing Teeth
The number of missing teeth is considerably high among veterans who were exposed to the contaminated water. The prevalence rate of missing teeth is nearly 69%. TCE and PCE exposure has been linked to adverse effects on bone development and bone density, leading to tooth loss.Tooth Decay
Tooth decay is another common dental issue among veterans who were exposed to Camp Lejeune's contaminated water. The prevalence rate of tooth decay is around 43%. TCE and PCE exposure weaken teeth enamel, making it more susceptible to bacteria attack that leads to cavities.Oral Cancers
The risk of oral cancer has increased among Camp Lejeune veterans who were exposed to the contaminated water. Nearly 18% of the affected individuals have been diagnosed with various types of oral cancers such as tongue, throat, and lip cancers. TCE and PCE exposure have been linked to causing mutations in genes that lead to cancer.Enamel Hypoplasia
Enamel hypoplasia occurs when the enamel on the teeth doesn’t develop properly, leading to discoloration, weakened teeth, and sensitivity. The prevalence rate of enamel hypoplasia among Camp Lejeune veterans is almost 61%. TCE and PCE exposure during the developmental stage can interfere with enamel formation, leading to enamel defects.Conclusion
The military veterans who were stationed at Camp Lejeune during the water contamination period suffer from various lingering dental issues. The dental issues range from gum diseases to oral cancers, affecting their overall oral health and wellbeing. While the government has extended help to these veterans through the VA healthcare system, awareness about these lingering dental issues needs to be raised to provide appropriate resources and assistance. Proper dental care and monitoring could potentially mitigate the effects of the contaminated water on the veteran's oral health.Thank you for taking the time to read about the lingering dental issues from Camp Lejeune water contamination. It is crucial to raise awareness about this silent epidemic that has affected countless Marines and their families. We hope that this article has shed some light on the subject and inspired you to take action and seek help if you have been impacted by this issue.
It is important to note that this problem did not arise overnight, and it will not be resolved quickly. However, what we can do is work together to bring attention to this issue and demand justice for those who have been affected. By sharing this article and spreading awareness, we can make a difference and bring about change for the better.
If you or someone you know has been affected by the dental issues caused by Camp Lejeune water contamination, we urge you to seek medical attention and connect with resources available to you. The road to recovery may be long, but with support and advocacy, healing is possible. Let us unite and take action in the fight against the silent epidemic of dental issues resulting from Camp Lejeune water contamination.
Here are the frequently asked questions about The Silent Epidemic: Unveiling the Lingering Dental Issues from Camp Lejeune Water Contamination, along with their corresponding answers:
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What is The Silent Epidemic?
The Silent Epidemic is a documentary film that tells the story of military personnel and their families who were exposed to contaminated water at the Camp Lejeune Marine Corps base in North Carolina, which resulted in a range of health issues, including dental problems.
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How did the water at Camp Lejeune become contaminated?
The water at Camp Lejeune became contaminated due to industrial dumping and leaky storage tanks that released toxic chemicals into the groundwater, which was then used for drinking, cooking, and bathing.
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What are some of the dental issues that have been linked to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune?
Some of the dental issues that have been linked to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune include tooth decay, gum disease, and enamel hypoplasia (a condition where the tooth enamel is underdeveloped).
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Who is affected by The Silent Epidemic?
The Silent Epidemic affects military personnel and their families who were stationed at Camp Lejeune between the 1950s and 1980s and were exposed to the contaminated water.
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What is being done to help those affected by The Silent Epidemic?
The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides healthcare and disability benefits to eligible veterans and their family members who were affected by the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. Additionally, advocacy groups like The Few, The Proud, The Forgotten provide resources and support to those affected.