Camp Lejeune Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma Lawsuit

Why are people filing Camp Lejeune non-Hodgkin lymphoma lawsuits?

People with NHL, also called non-Hodgkin lymphoma, are filing Camp Lejeune non-Hodgkin lymphoma lawsuits to seek justice and compensation for their disease. New filing options are now available after the passage of the Camp Lejeune Justice Act of 2022. This act, part of the larger Honoring Our PACT Act, opened a two-year window for Camp Lejeune claims.

The contaminated water at Camp Lejeune has been linked to multiple cancers, including NHL. Individuals who were present on base for more than 30 days between August 1953 and December 1987 may have been exposed to various chemicals in the water. This includes veterans and their family members. Chemicals present in Camp Lejeune water include:

• 1,2-dichloroethylene (DCE)
• Benzene
• Perchloroethylene / tetrachloroethylene (PCE)
• Trichloroethylene (TCE)
• Vinyl chloride

These chemicals, known as volatile organic compounds (VOCs), are linked to increased risk for various cancers, including NHL.

Contact a toxic exposure attorney

If you or a loved one served, worked or lived at Camp Lejeune between Aug. 1, 1953, and Dec. 31, 1987, and developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma or other severe health complications, a knowledgeable toxic exposure attorney can help you weigh your options for seeking compensation. We are available at any time by email, or you can call 866.855.9017 for more information.

Contact a lawyer now

Evidence linking Camp Lejeune to non-Hodgkin lymphoma

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma is a cancer that affects the body’s immune system and white blood cells. Several of the VOCs found in Camp Lejeune’s water have been linked to an increased risk of developing NHL. The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) has found evidence connecting NHL to benzene, PCE and TCE.

Benzene and non-Hodgkin lymphoma

The ATSDR has found “sufficient evidence for causation for benzene and NHL.” Other health agencies, such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), have also concluded that benzene is carcinogenic.

Benzene is a liquid chemical that can be formed from natural and manmade processes. It has been associated with other health effects as well, including short-term effects like dizziness and headaches. 

Perchloroethylene (PCE) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma

There is a connection between PCE and NHL. A study found dry cleaning workers exposed to PCE exhibited elevated risk for NHL, but no meta-analyses have been conducted. Other occupational exposure studies have also found the same elevated risk.

PCE is a liquid chemical used in industrial applications. 

Trichloroethylene (TCE) and non-Hodgkin lymphoma

The National Cancer Institute (NCI) says TCE “may be associated with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin lymphoma.” The ATSDR has also found “sufficient evidence for causation for TCE and NHL.”

TCE is another liquid chemical produced from human industrial activities. 

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma symptoms

Non-Hodgkin lymphoma can take years to develop, depending on the disease grade and various risk factors. People who lived or worked at Camp Lejeune should pay special attention to any new or worsening health issues. Catching cancer early is often the best way to receive a favorable prognosis.

Below are a few common signs and symptoms of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. If you or a loved one experience any of these, contact a doctor to determine the next steps.

Other Camp Lejeune water contamination conditions

Several types of cancer and diseases besides NHL have also been linked to the contaminated water at Camp Lejeune. These conditions include:

• Aplastic anemia
• Bladder cancer
• Cardiac birth defects
• Kidney cancer
• Leukemia
• Liver cancer
• Multiple myeloma
• Myelodysplastic syndromes 
• Other kidney and end stage renal diseases
• Parkinson's disease
• Systemic scleroderma
• Systemic sclerosis

Patients with these conditions should also speak with one of our toxic exposure attorneys to discuss what their legal options for lymphoma compensation might be.

How to file a Camp Lejeune lawsuit for non-Hodgkin lymphoma

If you or a loved one have developed non-Hodgkin lymphoma from Camp Lejeune’s toxic water, you may be eligible to file for compensation. First, file an administrative claim with the Department of the Navy (DON). The DON claim must show that you:

1. Lived, worked or were stationed at Camp Lejeune for more than 30 days between August 1, 1953, and December 31, 1987.
2. Developed a health condition linked to the toxic water, such as lymphoma or other cancers.

The DON will then process the claim. If the claim is rejected or not processed within 6 months, you may then file a lawsuit. People have until August 9, 2024, to file their DON claim. If you do not file your administrative claims by this date, they will be forever barred and you will not be able to file an administrative claim or lawsuit over your injuries. If you file a DON claim, you may also have the option to accept a settlement offered under the DON and Justice Department’s elective payout option.

You may also be able to file a claim with the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). VA compensation for non-Hodgkin lymphoma may be available. Claims through the VA are separate from claims filed through the DON. 

A Camp Lejeune lawyer can help you explore your options for compensation, file your claims and litigate your case. When choosing a law firm to contact, be wary of Camp Lejeune scams.

Our history representing veterans

Motley Rice has represented veterans and their families and fought for their rights in court. Our law firm is committed to justice and helping veterans receive what they deserve. 

We have represented veterans in litigation concerning:

• Exposure to asbestos and other toxic materials
• 3M earplugs and hearing loss
• EFP roadside bombs manufactured by terrorists
• Exposure to toxins released from burn pits at military facilities

Motley Rice Camp Lejeune lawyers can help eligible veterans determine their options, collect necessary documentation, file their claims and litigate their cases.

Read more on our work in support of veterans.