There is not a lot of information about mesothelioma. Therefore, many people have misconceptions or know misinformation about the disease. Understanding the facts can help those diagnosed with the disease to know their options.
Only Older Men Get Mesothelioma
Since many statistics only show that 75% of mesothelioma deaths are older men, people tend to think only elderly men are in danger. However, mesothelioma affects both men and men of all ages. In fact, some forms of mesothelioma like papillary or cystic are more common in women. Doctors have diagnosed adults, young adults and even children with mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Only Affects the Lungs
Malignant pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of the disease. However, mesothelioma can form in other parts of the body besides the lungs. Pericardial Mesothelioma develops in the thin membrane surrounding the heart or pericardium. Testicular mesothelioma also exists as well.
Mesothelioma Symptoms Are Very Recognizable
Unfortunately, many of the symptoms of mesothelioma mimic other illnesses. Therefore, doctors have a tendency of missing a mesothelioma diagnosis. Also, sometimes patients do not experience any symptoms for decades after asbestos exposure. Early detection is the best way to receive a better prognosis. The most common symptoms are fatigue, shortness of breath, chest pain and a dry cough.
Only Long-Term Asbestos Exposure Causes Mesothelioma
The longer the exposure to asbestos the greater chance of developing mesothelioma. However, asbestos exposure in any amount can cause the disease. It is important to realize that secondary asbestos exposure can occur. Asbestos exposure can happen anywhere from military ships to schools.
Companies Knowingly Exposure Employees
Asbestos once filled countless U.S. homes and businesses in the form of insulation and heat-protecting materials. Throughout the construction boom following WWII, asbestos was a key element in thousands of industrial and household products, including drywall, wiring, glues, and adhesives, ceiling tiles, cement, and shingles.
Some of these asbestos products remain in old structures. They are harmless if not disturbed. Asbestos injured workers while on the job. When the asbestos industry was booming, families of workers were at great risk. Workers often came home with asbestos fibers in their hair, work clothes, and tools. This exposed family members to the toxic substance and increasing their risk for related diseases. Mesothelioma victims may be eligible for compensation from workplace exposure.
Asbestos Is Not Banned
There are laws and regulations to limit asbestos exposure. However, it has not been fully banned. In fact, it still exists in many homes, workplaces and public areas. U.S. Senator Jeff Merkley introduced a bill called the Alan Reinstein Ban Asbestos Now Act of 2017. This is the sixth attempt at banning the dangerous substance in the past 20 years. Last year, there was an act to formulate a risk review, but this new piece of legislation would speed up that study.
Besides being the first bill to effectively ban asbestos, this bill would also impose stricter restrictions on the dangerous product. Plus, the EPA would need to make it known all the uses and any current exposure sites.
According to a U.S. Geological Survey, companies imported 340 tons of raw asbestos in 2016. In 1973 before the public knew of the danger, the U.S. consumed over 800,000 tons. Roofing and automotive supplies have the highest asbestos levels.
10,000 people die every year as a result of asbestos exposure.
Financial Assistance
All in all, treatment is expensive, and insurance companies may not cover the cost of everything. If you don’t have medical insurance, treatment can be very difficult. If a doctor diagnosed you or a loved one with Mesothelioma, you may need assistance. It is important to note that companies could have prevented your asbestos-related cancer since these corporations mined, manufactured and sold asbestos products that put profits over the health of you. Our legal system exists to hold these people accountable.
Get Help with a Specialized Complex Litigation Attorney
A Complex Litigation attorney like those found at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is critical when seeking help to cover your asbestos-related expenses. Identifying when and where you were exposed to asbestos is crucial to your lawsuit. Experienced lawyers are familiar with companies that used asbestos and know which job sites had a significant amount of asbestos use. Also, they know which products contained high concentrations of the toxic mineral.
Also, consultations are completely free, confidential and have no obligation. The Michael Brady Lynch Firm has successfully represented thousands of consumers and recovered millions of dollars for their clients. Our team of attorneys has been recognized as some of the most experienced and successful in the country. Our award-winning staff is also sought after for our knowledge on complex litigation, scientific evidence development, negotiation strategies and trial tactics.
Most of all, our law office is resourceful and dedicated to pursuing any compensation you are due. Because of this, we have also received a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, such as inclusion on numerous Plaintiff Steering Committees. In fact, we will take whatever legal measures are necessary when fighting for your rights to damages.