Understanding Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer caused by the exposure to and inhalation of asbestos fibers. While considered to be a relatively rare cancer diagnosis, persons who have been exposed to even trace amounts of the fibers have a high rate of developing the disease. Mesothelioma affects the serous membranes that surround the body’s vital organs, resulting in the secretion of a fluid that causes organs to move too freely within the body cavity. Mostly commonly occurring in the lining of the lungs, mesothelioma can also affect the heart and stomach. Symptoms vary, and include chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, wheezing, weight loss and fluid in the lungs. In severe cases, tumors develop on the lining of the organ, inhibiting functionality and causing intense pain. At this time, there is no known cure for mesothelioma, though there are several treatments. Many of these treatment follows conventional cancer therapies, including radiation, chemotherapy and, occasionally, surgery. Many times, trimodal Approximately two to three thousand people die from mesothelioma each year in the U.S. alone.

Asbestos has long been used in manufacturing due to its natural insulation, strength and fire-retardant qualities. First harvested on an industrial scale in the late 1800s, the material was widely distributed in the U.S. throughout the 20^th century and could be found used in some form in many of the buildings built up until the late 1970's.

Over 27 million people in the United States were exposed to asbestos between 1940 and 1979, men being four times more likely to contract the disease than women. This is most likely due to the types of manufacturing jobs worked predominantly by men in the mid-20^th century. Unfortunately, the families these workers were also at risk, as the workers would unintentionally carry small fibers home on their clothing.

While many uses for asbestos were banned in the mid-1970’s, the risk from exposure continues to this day because of mesothelioma’s long latency and incubation period of anywhere between 10 – 70 years. Today, many of the same type of workers face the dangers if they are forced to work in older buildings or are in professions which would require them to remove or replace asbestos laden components. During the 9/11 disaster, those who were in the vicinity of the Twin Towers were exposed to a high concentration of asbestos dust in the atmosphere that was released from the materials of the buildings. Firefighters, volunteers, and other first-responders worked in the deadly debris without realizing the danger.

The following occupations present the highest risk for workers exposed to asbestos fibers:

Pipe Coverers

Navy Yard Workers/Yardbirds

Laborers

Brake Mechanics

Auto Mechanics

Millwrights

Painters

Plasterers

Merchant Marine Seaman

Paperworkers

Electricians

Bricklayers

Boilermakers

Automotive mechanics

Machinists

Lathers

Insulators

Welders

Sheetmetal workers

Crane Operators

Aircraft Mechanics

Engineers

Steamfitters

Masonry Workers

Longshoremen

Plant workers

Powerhouse Workers

Railroad Workers

Inspectors

Maintenance Workers

Paper Mill Workers

Tapers

Pipefitters

Cement Finishers

Foundry Workers

Carpenters

Plumbers

Roofers

Sailors

If you or someone you love has been exposed to asbestos and suffers from mesothelioma, then you have the right to seek compensation for your injuries. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you to determine who is liable for your damages and will help to better ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. Mesothelioma changes lives. Not only do you face the uncertainty of the future, you and your family may also face numerous expensive medical bills while you see treatment. Contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible to find out what can be done to protect your rights.