Naval Station Pascagoula
The Naval Station Pascagoula was opened in 1988. It was used as an operational facility for holding Perry Class guided missile frigates by 1992. The most unique quality of this shipyard was the length of it's pier. Stretching 680 feet, the pier was situated on two levels. They also acquired more space that was used to hold smaller vessels.
For its workers and families, the Naval Station in Pascagoula provided amenities such as the Navy's Fleet and Family Support Center, the Housing Referral Office, and the Morale Welfare and Recreation Department. More than 2,000 active members are assigned to ships and commands that make up the Naval Station in Pascagoula. The Naval Station also supports other services for the shipbuilding industry such as cold iron support and room for visiting ships that require their services.
Even though the Naval Station in Pascagoula was built after the hazards of asbestos were known, there is still a chance that those who worked on the ships and took part in repairs might have been prone to asbestos inhalation. This is due to the age of the ships being worked on and presence of asbestos fibers in the insulation and pipe work of the vessel. Many individuals were not protected from the possible inhalation of asbestos and are currently suffering from negative health effects as a result. Most individuals who were prone to asbestos inhalation are experiencing mesothelioma cancer and asbestosis, both illnesses that affect the lining of the lungs because of the scar tissue caused by asbestos fibers.
Those who may not be experiencing symptoms and signs of these deadly diseases and have worked in shipyards should be tested immediately. The symptoms (shortness of breath, severe cough, chest pain) do not show until many years after exposure. Those who are currently infected with the illness range from 40 years old and up. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are not generally discovered until later stages due to the lack of symptoms. Doctors and scientists are confident that the earlier the disease is found the more responsive it will be to treatment and medication.
Last modified: December 28, 2010.
