Health And The Law - Mesothelioma


This article will provide you with information about asbestos, Mesothelioma and what to do if you are diagnosed with this form of cancer.

What Is Asbestos and High Risk Occupations

Asbestos is a naturally occurring set of minerals that was mined and used commercially since the 1800s. Asbestos is known for its strength, durability and fire resistant qualities. Exposure to asbestos happens when the finished product, containing asbestos, is damaged. When disturbed, asbestos fibers are released into the air and inhaled into the lungs.

People at highest risk of asbestos exposure have worked in some of the following industries:

  • Shipyards
  • Metal and Sheet Metal Production
  • Power Plants
  • Building and Construction
  • Electrical and Heating
  • Auto Manufacturing
  • Demolition
  • Fire Fighting

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos. It is diagnosed when malignant cancer cells grow in the “mesothelium”, the protective lining that covers the lungs and abdominal cavity. This results in a thickening of that lining and fluid build up that puts pressure on the lungs or other organs and interferes with normal functioning.

Mesothelioma is often difficult to diagnosis because the symptoms often look like other forms of cancer. A person with this type of cancer typically has no symptoms for 15 to 50 years after exposure. Therefore, diagnosis doesn’t happen until the Mesothelioma is in its late stages.

Types of Mesothelioma

There are three main types of Mesothelioma.

Pleural Mesothelioma

This is the most common form of cancer and develops in the lining of a person’s lungs. The symptoms of this form of Mesothelioma include difficulty swallowing, a constant dry cough, chest pain and pain or difficulty breathing. These symptoms are caused as the lining of the lungs thicken and fluid builds up and puts pressure on the lungs and respiratory system.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

This is a fairly rare form of Mesothelioma that forms in the lining of the abdomen. Symptoms include pain and swelling of the stomach, weight loss, diarrhea or constipation, nausea and vomiting. This is the result of the thickening in the abdominal lining and the fluid build up that puts pressure on the organs of the stomach.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

This is the rarest form of this type of cancer and involves the lining around the heart. Symptoms include heart palpitations, chest pain and difficulty breathing. As with the other forms of Mesothelioma, there is a build up of the fluid that causes pressure on the heart.

Legal Implications After Diagnosis

Obviously, after receiving the diagnosis of Mesothelioma, the last thing you want to think about are legal implications. But consider this.

Since the 1920s, the manufacturers of asbestos products were aware that asbestos caused health problems. By the 1940s there was an undeniable link between asbestos exposure and Mesothelioma. However, over a period of several decades, the asbestos manufacturers chose to continue to make a profit and withheld this vital information from their employees and the public in general.

It is because of these criminal and negligent acts that asbestos producers and manufacturers are being held responsible. They are liable for the physical and emotional suffering of the people who have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma. Being diagnosed with Mesothelioma as a result of asbestos exposure gives you the right to file a legal claim against the manufacturers.

By working with a competent Mesothelioma lawyer and filing a claim, you can bring to justice this corrupt industry. You and your family will be compensated for your expenses and the pain and suffering you have to endure as a result of being diagnosed with Mesothelioma.