As the first vessel in the fourth group of S-class submarines of the United States Navy, the USS S-48 (SS-159) was built in 1920 and began its activity in 1922. Given the time of construction, asbestos was most likely present on the submarine in the form of wall insulation, so those who served on it should keep a close eye on their health, especially on the health of their lungs. Partaking in World War II, the USS S-48 won several awards, including the American Defense Service Medal and the World War II Victory Medal. It was struck from the Naval Vessel Register in 1945 and later sold for scrapping. Thousands of veterans who served in the U.S. military were exposed to asbestos while on active-duty. Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause irritation and scarring that can potentially lead to tumors and cancer. It is known to cause several lung diseases, from asbestosis and lung cancer to a very rare cancer called mesothelioma. A chest X-ray is the most common test to determine if you have received sustained exposure to asbestos and to provide information about the severity of the condition and how much of the lungs are working.
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