Mesothelioma

What is Mesothelioma?

The connection between asbestos exposure and disease is well known. Countless individuals have suffered painful, premature deaths due to mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, asbestosis and other diseases. If you or a loved one has an asbestos-related disease, it is important to speak with a lawyer about your legal rights and the possibility of bringing a claim to recover damages.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare and serious cancer most often caused by asbestos inhalation. It is extremely aggressive and very difficult, if not impossible, to treat. The most common form of mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lungs, although it can sometimes affect other internal organs such as the lining of the abdomen, heart, or testicles. A mesothelioma diagnosis is tragic and the prognosis is rarely optimistic.

Asbestos Inhalation Causes Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the most common cause of mesothelioma. A naturally occurring mineral, asbestos was often used as insulation in the past. Unfortunately, doctors and researchers did not originally realize that humans can become sick from asbestos exposure. When asbestos dust is inhaled or swallowed, it can react with the cells in our bodies. Most people who are exposed to asbestos never develop mesothelioma. However, those with even brief exposure to the mineral can develop the disease. It can take up to 40 years to develop mesothelioma after asbestos exposure. Those with occupations that can potentially bring them into contact with asbestos fibers are especially at risk. Those who live in close proximity to individuals with such occupations risk exposure as well. Western Pennsylvania was once the home of the world's steel industry. Many power stations, mills, blast furnaces and heavy industries were located here that provided possible sources of asbestos exposure to their workers. Many skilled tradesmen such as mechanics, boilermakers, bricklayers, electricians, laborers, linemen, machinists, pipe fitters, steamfitters, mineworkers, steelworkers, and iron workers were at risk for exposure.

Lung Cancer

If you have been exposed to asbestos or have received a mesothelioma diagnosis, then you are in need of an experienced asbestos attorney. Mesothelioma litigation is a highly specialized process. Because of the exceptionally long latency period of asbestos-related diseases, the initial exposure to asbestos may have occurred 30, 40 or more years ago. This can create a number of difficult issues when it comes to locating witnesses and gathering evidence.

There are sometimes serious challenges in identifying all potentially liable parties, and a careful examination of the victim's work and exposure history is crucial. Victims diagnosed with mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease, must realize that time is of the essence. Contact us as soon as possible so that we can evaluate your situation and advise you of your rights. We are here to help.