Causes of Mesothelioma Cancer

Malignant mesothelioma, similar to many other types of cancers, is caused when the body’s DNA is damaged. DNA damage occurs in mesothelioma victims when they are exposed to asbestos over a long period of time, typically at job sites that used asbestos-containing products or by using household products for extended periods that contained asbestos. In rare instances, some victims may have developed mesothelioma after short-term exposure to asbestos, but in the majority of cases, victims were exposed to large amounts asbestos for extended periods of time.

Unlike many cancers, mesothelioma does not have a large number of causes. One of its alternate names is asbestos cancer because its primary cause is long term exposure to asbestos. There is evidence, however, that asbestos is not the only cause even though it leads as the #1 reason victims get the disease.
If you or a loved one suffer from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may qualify for substantial compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, awaiting those who’ve been diagnosed with an asbestos illness. We invite you to use our Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma lawyer in your area.

Primary Cause of Mesothelioma: Asbestos Exposure

As previously mentioned, mesothelioma is primarily caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos. Prior to the 1980s, many homes, buildings, work sites, and materials were built using asbestos because of its positive properties: heat and fire resistance.
After extensive research and investigations determined that asbestos is extremely harmful to people, the majority of businesses and manufacturers stopped using it. However, this was decades after a massive amount of individuals had already been exposed. In other instances, even though it was determined that asbestos was dangerous, several businesses continued to use it as their profits would have seriously suffered had it been eliminated.
In 2009, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) confirmed the investigations and findings, and released a statement that informer the public that the primary cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure.
In addition, the statement reported that workers who were around asbestos on a  daily basis run the highest risk of getting mesothelioma. The most common work sites associated with using asbestos include factories, plants, steel mills, schools, asbestos mines, and asbestos processing plants. Yet, people at home are also at risk, especially if they live in an area close to a natural-occurring asbestos deposit site.
Two other studies performed in 2010 by the Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation and the Cancer Institute revealed again, that the main cause of mesothelioma is via asbestos exposure. However, it usually takes a hefty amount of asbestos exposure before a victim contracts mesothelioma.
Once the fibers enter into the system, it’s almost impossible for the body to expel them. The fibers then begin to attack the mesothelium which in turn causes lesions to form. Over time, cells in the damaged tissue become cancerous and form tumors. It can then take up to 50 years for the first symptoms of mesothelioma to surface.

How Asbestos Attacks the Body

People are exposed to asbestos by inhaling the fine fibers that the mineral produces. These fibers then get lodged in the lungs. Asbestos can also be unknowingly swallowed, and the fibers make their way down to the abdominal area. Unfortunately, once asbestos fibers are in the body, as previously mentioned, it’s almost impossible to remove them all. As time moves on, these fibers can cause significant damage to the body, which can lead to mesothelioma. Although scientists and physicians are still trying to determine exactly why asbestos fibers cause cancer, there are several theories that are currently being researched:

• Changes in Genetics: Asbestos can disrupt mesothelial cells, which are naturally-occurring cells in the body. This in turn hinders the functions of the cells, which can lead to cancer.
• Inflammation of Cells: When the body’s cells become irritated, inflammation and scarring occur. Consequently, it leads to cell damage and cancer.
• Free Radicals: Asbestos produces free radicals in the body. Once this happens, DNA can become damaged, which leads to cancer.
• Oncoproteins Growth: When asbestos is in the body, cells begin producing oncoproteins. Oncoproteins hinders normal cell production, which can consequently lead to cancer.

Secondary Cause of Mesothelioma: Drug Interactions

Some mesothelioma patients have not been exposed to asbestos. Researchers have found links between a drug called Thorotrast and mesothelioma.
According to the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), patients administered the drug are at an elevated risk of developing lung carcinoma and mesothelioma.
Thorotrast is a mixture of particles that was used primarily in the 1930s and 1940s when performing x-ray imaging. It helped physician produce high quality images, yet unfortunately, the particles remain in the human body.
In addition, Simian Virus 40 (SV40), has been linked to mesothelioma. SV40 is a virus that was found in a few species of monkeys and later found in Polio vaccinations.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 90 million Americans received a Polio vaccination between 1955 through 1963. It was during this time period that the Polio vaccine was contaminated with SV40.
Although humans typically aren’t susceptible to mesothelioma after getting the vaccine, studies have shown that at least 40 patients with mesothelioma also have traces of SV40. More research needs to be done in order to understand how this happens.

Erionite

Another possible cause of mesothelioma is exposure to erionite. Though much less common than asbestos exposure, erionite is similar to asbestos in that both are naturally-occurring minerals that are harmful when ingested or inhaled.
Furthermore, erionite has been shown to mimic the same process of development as asbestos-related cancers, taking up to 50 years for the first symptoms to appear.
The biggest difference, however, is that erionite is inhaled and ingested primarily through the environment and not in the workplace.
Studies have also shown that erionite poses a higher risk of victims developing mesothelioma and other types of lung cancers when compared to asbestos. Mesothelioma also develops more quickly and with less exposure to erionite as opposed to asbestos.
Erionite can be sometimes found in volcanic ashes that have been modified via weather changes and water. In some rare instances, erionite has been found in water purification systems and softeners. Usually however, erionite is found in natural deposit sites.
There are known erionite deposits throughout the world, including:

• Russia
• Japan
• Germany
• Turkey
• Kenya
• Italy

In the United States, erionite deposits can be found in:

• North Dakota
• Wyoming
• Arizona
• Oregon
• Nevada
• California
• Utah

Turkey yields the highest amount of erionite. In fact, in the village of Tuzkoy, there is an extremely high amount of malignant mesothelioma victims because of the naturally-occurring yet excessive amount of erionite deposits surrounding the area. Several of the village people use erionite as food storage which further exposes them to risk.
In the United States, scientists are still studying the adverse effects of erionite, particularly in North Dakota. When compared to asbestos, there currently is little information regarding the health risks of erionite.

Genetics

Although extremely rare, some experts have suggested that certain people may be predisposed genetically to mesothelioma.

In fact, a research funded by the National Institutes of Health (NHI) found a specific mutation gene called the BAP1, that makes the carriers of the gene at great risk for developing both mesothelioma and melanoma of the eyes. These people are also at a much higher risk of developing an asbestos-related disease if they are ever exposed to the mineral.

In addition, people with BAP1 are also at risk for developing different kinds of cancers such as breast, ovarian, pancreatic, and renal.

Regardless of the way someone contracts mesothelioma, the symptoms are almost always the same. Keep in mind, though, that some people may exhibit more symptoms than others, and it typically takes decades for the even the most common symptoms of mesothelioma to surface.

Typical symptoms include:

• Chest pain that can fluctuate from minor to severe
• Fluid buildup in the lungs
• Difficulty swallowing and pain when attempting to swallow
• Overwhelming sense of fatigue and lethargy
• Nausea and vomiting
• Unexplained weight loss
• Dyspnea (shortness of breath)
• Dry coughing, wheezing, and/or hacking
• Pleural effusions

Less Common but More Serious Symptoms

• Lung Collapsing
• Coughing up blood
• Nerve damage in the arms
• Blood clots on the hands and arms
• Horner’s Syndrome (rare condition that affects the nerves in the eyes and face)

Getting Legal Help

If you’ve been injured by mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that there is a good chance that you’ll qualify for considerable compensation. Remember to use our Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a leading mesothelioma attorney in your area. If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.

Mesothelioma Cancer Diagnosis and Help for Victims

Mesothelioma is one of the most difficult cancers to diagnose. Since it develops slowly, patients may not feel any symptoms until 20, 30, or even 50 years after exposure to asbestos fibers. When they do start exhibiting symptoms, doctors may not even recognize mesothelioma because its initial signs resemble pneumonia, influenza or the common cold, making a diagnosis difficult. In other instances, a misdiagnosis may occur (see misdiagnosis below) since mesothelioma, although rare, is similar to other cancers. To make matters worse, many malignant mesothelioma victims actually contract pneumonia as one of the side effects of the disease and are usually treated for pneumonia only.

To diagnose mesothelioma, doctors may use one or several different methods, typically involving x-rays, scans, and/or removing small parts of the tissues in the infected area to be examined.
If you have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, set up for those who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. Use our free Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma attorney in your area.

Diagnosis Statistics

Although it is theoretically possible for just about anyone exposed to asbestos to be diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer, 80% of mesothelioma cancer victims are men who suffered prolonged exposure to asbestos while working at job sites that used asbestos in machinery, equipment, and products. Typical occupations included steel mills, power plants, paper mills, the automotive industry, the military, and several different kinds of factories.

Women and Mesothelioma

Women have less of a statistical risk of being diagnosed with mesothelioma since most of the  job sites that used asbestos were in fields that were employed by a majority of males. Yet, because asbestos can be found in schools, hospitals, and even homes built between 1930 and the early 1970s, women, too, are at some risk of being afflicted by mesothelioma. Additionally, women who worked in aircraft factories or shipyards during the Second World War are the most likely to be diagnosed with an asbestos-related cancer.
Furthermore, family members and loved ones who come into contact with someone who worked around asbestos run a small risk of contracting an asbestos-related illness. For example, a wife who washes clothes that are filled with asbestos fibers from her husband’s work may be susceptible to an asbestos-related disease.

Detecting Mesothelioma

There is a chance that mesothelioma may not be detected. Its long period of dormancy is one factor as the symptoms of mesothelioma can take decades to appear. Another determinant is the disease’s chameleon-like nature. It’s only when doctors make a connection between a patient’s exposure to asbestos that mesothelioma-specific tests are usually ordered. Anyone who has worked around asbestos is always encouraged to get regular check-ups and let their physicians know of past work history.

Younger People and Mesothelioma

Additionally, mesothelioma may not be detected in younger patients since the disease is more prevalent in older adults. According to a study performed at New York City’s Mount Sinai Hospital, results showed that out of 110 mesothelioma victims, 10 of those were under the age of 39. These patients had the typical symptoms of mesothelioma, such as coughing and difficulty with breathing, but because of their age, doctors didn’t diagnose the disease until several months later.
Another factor that makes a diagnosis especially difficult is that mesothelioma tumors can be confused with other types of cancer. Examinations using microscopes don’t easily reveal asbestos-related cancers.
As a result, as aforementioned, it’s imperative to discuss your work history and any form of asbestos exposure with your physician as soon as possible. If a physician knows that you’ve worked around asbestos, testing to diagnosis asbestos-related diseases will not be prolonged.

Testing Used to Diagnose Mesothelioma

If a physician suspects a patient is suffering from mesothelioma, a series of tests will be administered, including some or all of the following:

• Chest computed tomography (CT): Similar to a conventional chest X-ray, this is a non-invasive test which involves taking detailed pictures of a patient’s lungs. Normally used to look for emphysema, pneumonia, excess fluids in the lungs, or tuberculosis, it can also be used to detect tumors. This type of testing is being used more and more for victims who may have an asbestos-related disease.

• Conventional chest x-ray: This procedure is used to take pictures of the pleural regions in order to detect visual changes in the lungs and other vital organs. It is usually carried out in conjunction with other tests such as biopsies and cytology of pleural fluids.

• Open lung biopsy: An open lung biopsy involves removing a small amount of tissue from the lung to see if it exhibits any signs of infection, injury or cancer. The tissue is examined for signs of the disease and infection once removed. A small incision is made in the chest area in order for the physician to remove the tissue. A chest tube is typically left in the lungs for a few days after the biopsy is performed to ensure that the lungs don’t collapse.

• Pleural biopsy: As with an open lung biopsy, a pleural biopsy involves the surgical removal of a small amount of tissue from the pleural cavity. The tissue is then examined for signs of infection or disease. The difference, however, is that several different tissues are usually removed during a pleural biopsy as opposed to just a small amount of tissue during an open lung biopsy. Additionally, the ribs are usually separated in order to remove tissue.

• Cytology of pleural fluid: During a procedure called thoracentesis, a small amount of fluid from the chest cavity is extracted with a needle which is inserted into the patient’s back. A local anesthetic is used in conjunction with this procedure to prevent discomfort to the patient. The fluid is then examined in a laboratory for signs of cancers such as lung cancer and mesothelioma.

It’s important to understand that even if most mesothelioma victims are not diagnosed until decades later, the earlier the diagnosis the better the prognosis. Early detection makes it easier for medical professionals to provide mesothelioma treatments to remove the cancer from the body. Although mesothelioma is incurable, an early diagnosis will help prolong life spans and help victims deal more effectively with pain.

• Biomarker and Blood Tests: A biomarker is a test that’s used to help doctors find and diagnose a particular disease. For mesothelioma, there are several different types of biomarker and blood tests used to detect the disease, including:
• Fibulin 3: Fibulin 3 is a relatively new biomarker that works by testing the Fibulin 3 in the patient’s blood stream. Fibulin 3 is a protein found in the body and with patients with mesothelioma, the protein can be significantly higher. For testing purposes, the protein is extracted via the body’s lung fluids.
• Mesomark: Mesomark, also known as mesomark assay, is an in vitro test that’s used to test and monitor the soluble mesothelin related peptides (SMRP) in a patient’s bloodstream. Mesomark will then determine if the patient has a high amount of SMRP, which may indicate pleural mesothelioma. In 2007, Mesomark was approved by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA)  as a laboratory test used to detect malignant mesothelioma.
• PET Scan Imaging: PET scan imaging works by scanning the body to determine how the organs are working together and if there are any problems. A radiopharmaceutical material can be inserted into the bloodstream or inhaled before imaging, which will help to detect cancer spots on various organs.

• Thoracoscopy and Laparoscopy: Thoracoscopy and laparoscopy are methods of detecting cancer via a small camera inserted into the body. The difference, however is that a thoracoscopy involves scanning and detecting abnormalities through tissue samples, whereas a laparoscopy detects abnormalities via the body’s stomach organs.

• Mediastinoscopy: A mediastinoscopy involves inserting a small camera into the lung area in an attempt to examine the tissues on the front of the lungs.

Misdiagnosis Issues

Unfortunately, many physicians often misdiagnose mesothelioma. Keep in mind that mesothelioma is still considered a rare form of cancer in the medical world. Doctors and scientists are still researching the disease, but since it’s so new, misdiagnosis often occurs.
For example, since the symptoms of mesothelioma closely mimic the common cold and the flu, patients have often been diagnosed with mesothelioma prematurely or not diagnosed with mesothelioma at all. In other instances, mesothelioma may be confused with other similar cancers.
It’s always recommended to seek the opinion of another mesothelioma doctor when diagnosed since misdiagnosis for this type of cancer is high.

Getting Legal Help

Remember to use our Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a leading mesothelioma attorney in your area. For questions and assistance, feel free to contact us at 800-793-4540.

Mesothelioma Cancer Symptoms Guide

Symptoms and warning signs of malignant mesothelioma are often much more difficult to notice because in most cases, they don’t begin to show until several decades after asbestos exposure. When symptoms do finally appear, they are often extremely mild in the beginning and most people haven’t a clue that these are actually warning signs of a dire medical issue. When early symptoms do develop, people will often mistake the warning signs for a cold, flu, or other less severe and common illnesses. It’s imperative though, to always listen to your body. If you’ve ever worked around asbestos or used products containing asbestos, do not ignore even the slightest hint of a cold. You should seek medical assistance immediately.

If you or a loved have mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be eligible for a large amount of compensation. Currently, there is over $30 billion in asbestos trust funds, set up for those who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. Use our free Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma attorney in your area.

Beware: Mesothelioma Can Mimic the Common Cold

The majority of victims do not seek help even after the first symptoms of mesothelioma arrive because the ailments, as previously stated, closely mimic common respiratory illnesses. To complicate matters even worse, pleural mesothelioma victims are prone to pneumonia. Yet, instead of connecting the pneumonia to mesothelioma, the victim is often times treated for the pneumonia only.

 In addition to cold and/or flu-like symptoms, some of the earliest indications and warning signs of mesothelioma cancer are lethargy, coughing, body aches, and shortness of breath. As previously mentioned, these symptoms are so similar to colds and flus that many victims still continue to ignore the early warning signs. Keep in mind that these symptoms apply to all forms of mesothelioma, but additional symptoms and warning signs may develop as well, depending upon the type of mesothelioma you have.

Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma

Since lung mesothelioma affects the chest area and respiratory system, many of the symptoms of pleural mesothelioma will be in that area of the body. Hacking, dry coughs, wheezing, chest pain, the inability to fully expand the chest, and dyspnea are some of the most common warning signs and evidence of pleural mesothelioma. In addition, close to 60% of mesothelioma victims have complained of back pain, usually in the lower area of the back. Sometimes the pain will spread from the chest into the shoulder areas.

Pleural plaques are another common sign of pleural mesothelioma, but usually will go undetected by the victim. Imaging machines almost always need to be used to see pleural plaques. Pleural plaques appear in clusters scattered throughout the victim’s chest area, ranging in sizes up to 6 cm and more.

In severe cases of pleural mesothelioma, victims may experience:

• Tumor masses
• A lung collapsing
• Coughing up blood
• Blood clots in the veins
• Blood clots in the lung’s arteries (pulmonary emboli)
• Jaundice
• Ascites
• Extreme swelling in the face and arms
• Dysphagia (difficulty with swallowing)

Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the cells walls that line the abdomen, also known as the mesothelium. The mesothelium contains two layers of cells that cover and protect the body’s internal organs. When the cells around the abdomen are affected, they become abnormal, multiply, and become cancerous. When asbestos fibers are ingested or inhaled, they can make their way down to the peritoneum.
Most cases of peritoneal mesothelioma is caused by working at a job site that was at one time associated with high amounts of asbestos use. In addition, peritoneal mesothelioma is a rare form of mesothelioma, affecting under 2 people per million in the United States each year.

Physician will normally suspect peritoneal mesothelioma when patients complain of the most common symptoms (see symptoms below). A series of tests and scans are usually performed before an accurate diagnosis is made.

The only sure way to determine if a victim is suffering from peritoneal mesothelioma is through fluid testing. A needle is used to withdraw fluid via the abdominal area. The fluid is then sent off to diagnostics for tests. If malignant cells are found, further testing will follow, which is necessary in order to confirm the cells are malignant.

• Abdominal Pain and Swelling
• Fluid buildup up in the abdominal area
• Fatigue and lethargy
• Lumps of tissue clumped together in the abdominal area (usually under the skin)
• Unusual weight loss
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty with breathing
• Cachexia (loss of appetite and physical weakness)
• Hernias
• Anemia
• Night sweats
• Changes in bowel movements: bouts of constipation and/or diarrhea

Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma affects the lining of the heart and is currently the most rare form of mesothelioma. How asbestos fibers reach the lining of the heart is still unknown, but scientists have stated that since the fibers are so small, there is a chance they go into the body’s bloodstream and then make their to the heart lining. In addition, mesothelioma in other areas, such as pleural mesothelioma, can eventually grow to a point where it reaches the pericardial area.

Victims of pericardial mesothelioma most often have a poor prognosis. Physicians will usually look for treatments as a means to reduce pressure and relieve pain, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, instead of as way to remove the cancer. Detailed diagnostic and biopsy testing sessions are usually performed before an accurate diagnosis can be made.

• Chest pain
• Wheezing
• Thickening of the pericardium
• Feeling tired and sluggish
• Fever

Testicular and Ovarian Mesothelioma

If males are suffering from testicular mesothelioma, tumors will be present in the testicles, and females suffering from ovarian mesothelioma will have ovarian tumors and cysts. More research is still needed on these two forms of mesothelioma in order to get a more accurate description of additional symptoms. However, as science continues to progress, more information regarding these types of mesothelioma cancers will become available.

Currently, scientists have a few theories on how victims develop testicular mesothelioma. One theory suggests that cancerous growth from other areas of the body somehow amass to a point in which the testicles are affected. Another theory suggests that nodules on the serosal surface of the testicles eventually develop into mesothelioma. The nodules, typically firm and either yellow or white in color, will thicken over time, which causes abnormal cells to quickly grow and multiply.

Although testicular and ovarian mesothelioma cancer is extremely rare, the life expectancy of victims is extremely grim. On average, victims are often told that life expectancy is less than two years.

Timespan Before Mesothelioma Symptoms Arrive

As aforementioned, it usually takes quite some time before the first symptoms of mesothelioma emerge. Physicians state that most often it takes anywhere from 30 to 50 years after the exposure of asbestos for the first mesothelioma symptoms to appear. This goes for all types of mesothelioma, although symptoms for peritoneal mesothelioma tend to show up slightly sooner, at anywhere from 20 to 30 years. If you’ve been exposed to asbestos or think you’ve been exposed, it’s imperative that you not only inform your doctor, but also have regular health check-ups.

In a study performed by the National Center for Biotechnology Information, it was determined that the average period before mesothelioma detection is around 32 years. However, since the symptoms are mild at first, most victims don’t get diagnosed until much later, when the disease has progressed and the symptoms have become much worse.

When to See Your Doctor

Most mesothelioma victims wait until they begin having severe symptoms before consulting with a physician. As previously mentioned, however,  it’s extremely important to make an appointment and have a check-up as soon as possible if you’ve been exposed to asbestos. Letting your doctor know that you’ve been exposed can help you get a diagnosis more quickly and start mesothelioma treatments.

It’s also important to remember that not all victims will experience the same symptoms. While some victims may only exhibit a few of the common symptoms, others may experience the full range of symptoms. Regardless, even the first hint of a cold or respiratory illness should be considered serious by anyone who has been exposed to asbestos.

Where to Get Medical Help

When dealing with an asbestos-related illness, it’s important to seek medical help from doctors and clinics who specialize in these forms of cancers. Mesothelioma is considered a new disease, but several physicians possess in-depth training and research on asbestos-related illnesses. In addition, medical centers backed by National Cancer Institute (NCI) are considered the forefront in dealing with all types of cancers, including malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, lung cancer, and more. It’s recommended that victims of asbestos diseases seek treatment at a NCI-designated medical facility.
To learn more about services and treatment and to find an NCI-designated facility in your area, call the National Cancer Institute to inquire about treatment centers close to you.

Additional Information

Don’t forget to use our free Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma lawyer in your area. For additional assistance, contact us at 800-793-4540.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, also known as asbestos cancer, is a rare but deadly disease which affects the pleura (a thin lining surrounding the lungs) and other parts of the body. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, naturally occurring minerals which were widely used in various industries for their fire-resistant properties. The most common form of this cancer is lung mesothelioma, which is also known as pleural mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can also attack the lining of the abdominal cavity, resulting in peritoneal mesothelioma. Additionally, mesothelioma cancer sometimes affects the pericardium, a sac which surrounds the heart, as well as other organs in the body.

If you or a loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestosis, or asbestos-related cancer, you may be entitled to substantial compensation. Use our free Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma attorney in your area. With over $30 billion currently in asbestos trust funds, now is the right time to take the first step in determining what you may qualify for.

How Does Mesothelioma Develop?

The development of mesothelioma is a drawn-out process, which makes it hard to diagnose and treat. On average, it takes decades for the symptoms of mesothelioma to surface. Mesothelioma can mask its presence because its symptoms resemble those of more common respiratory illnesses. By the time a doctor orders a battery of tests to look for mesothelioma, it is usually too late to treat the cancer effectively. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pains, or a combination of both. As mesothelioma advances to its final stage, symptoms can become more severe and typically include severe chest and lung pain, bloating, coughing up blood, difficulty in swallowing, or buildup of fluid in the chest cavity. Extreme tiredness, lack of appetite, and subsequent weight loss, skin rashes, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, night sweats, and fever.

Between 2,000 to 3,000 new  cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the U.S. every year.

Who Is the Average Mesothelioma Patient?

The majority of mesothelioma victims are people who have been in the armed forces and/or worked in an environment in which they were in daily contact with asbestos.
A case in point:  U.S. Navy ships of all types that were launched and saw service from the 1930s to the early 1960s contained extremely large  amounts of asbestos.  Decks, compartment walls, hulls, electrical systems, steam pipes, and more contain asbestos fibers in order to add tensile strength, resistance to fire and heat, and low electrical conductivity. This made  ships safer, particularly in regards to extreme temperatures and fires. However, these large amounts of asbestos containing materials present in warships and auxiliary vessels exposed sailors, Marines, and repair yard workers to carcinogenic asbestos fibers which trigger the disease.
In the civilian economy, many worksites such as electrical plants, steel mills, manufacturing facilities, oil refineries, welding businesses, and more used asbestos extensively prior to its ban. Prior to its ban in the late 20th Century, asbestos was used in many industrial plants, port facilities, and other buildings across the world where millions of workers were regularly exposed to it during their workdays.
Many owners of enterprises where fire and/or high temperatures are used in the manufacturing process used large amounts of asbestos to make their production facilities safer and more efficient. Asbestos was added to many factory components to make them stronger and able to resist flame and extreme heat. While these measures had positive results in preventing fires or diminishing the damage from them, they also exposed many industrial workers to asbestos fibers.
Although anyone exposed to asbestos is at some  risk of developing mesothelioma, the average patients of this asbestos-related malady are usually males. This is because males were the predominant gender in the armed forces or in work sites which asbestos was used prior to its ban. Since it usually takes between 10 and 50 years from the initial exposure to a definitive diagnosis, mesothelioma patients are commonly older men in the 60-70 age group.

How Doctors Diagnose Mesothelioma

Unfortunately, as previously stated, it takes sometimes up to 50 years  in order for doctors  to diagnose mesothelioma since the symptoms tend to show up slowly. Even then, the symptoms manifest themselves so subtly that unless a physician has a patient’s complete medical and work history, including the fact that he or she was exposed to asbestos, diagnosis may be delayed.
Once a doctor begins the process of obtaining a diagnosis, several blood tests, CT scans, chest X-rays and a biopsy are usually performed. A biopsy allows the doctor to remove bits of lung tissue in order to search for asbestos fibers or indications of lesions or tumors. If a patient is diagnosed with mesothelioma, his or her physician will be also be able to assess what stage of the disease has reached.

The Four Stages of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma has four stages. The first stage is the earliest of the disease where the  mesothelioma tumor is not fully formed. Patients with stage Ia and Ib mesothelioma have the best chances of getting the cancerous cells removed. As the mesothelioma tumors grow and affect more healthy tissue, the stage number rises, with Stage IV being the final stage. Stage II of mesothelioma still renders hope for the patient since the tumor, although it has increased in size, still has not spread to the point in which surgery is not an option.
Once a patient reaches Stage III, the cancer has moved to adjacent parts of the body and a patient’s life expectancy is shorter when compared to that when the cancer is in Stages I and II. However, if the tumor is in mass, surgery may still be an option for certain patients.  However, once mesothelioma reaches Stage IV, the prognosis is not a good one and physicians will search for palliative treatments instead of treatments that promise a cure. Palliative treatments focus on helping mesothelioma patients manage pain and prolong their lives instead of attempting to remove the tumors. In the majority of cases, the tumors are far too widespread during this stage to be surgically removed.
The four stages of mesothelioma are listed and defined below:

• Stage Ia: Tumor is in the outer layer of the pleura (parietal pleura). It is not in the pleura covering the lung (visceral pleura).

• Stage Ib: Tumor is in both the parietal and visceral pleura
• Stage II: Tumor has spread into the lung or diaphragm.
• Stage III: Tumor has spread to one or more of these organs or areas: the pericardium, part of the chest wall, or lymph glands inside the chest
• Stage IV: Tumor has metastasized to one or more of the following: across the chest wall or pericardium, various areas of the chest wall, the heart, liver, windpipe or esophagus, or the opposite lung.

Unfortunately, many individuals may not even know they have mesothelioma until they have been diagnosed. Some patients’ mesothelioma tumors are not found until they’re reached Stage IV since it takes decades from the initial exposure to asbestos  for the first symptoms to manifest themselves.

Mesothelioma Treatments

Chemotherapy, radiation, or a combination of both are the most effective forms of mesothelioma treatments currently available. However, if the disease is detected in Stages Ia or Ib, surgery is almost always recommended in order to remove the tumor. The caveat, of course, is that the patient must meet certain health and age requirements. Older patients and/or patients with less-than-ideal health conditions may not be able to withstand the physical demands of a surgical procedure.

If the cancer has reached its late stages, especially Stage IV, multimodal treatment options are used. Multimodal treatment is a combination of two different types of treatments, typically chemotherapy and radiation. Surgery is not a widely-used option for patients with Stages III and IV mesothelioma, since the poor state of health of the patient, as well as the possible metastasis of the tumor makes surgery extremely risky.
In addition to standard treatments, many mesothelioma patients have chosen a wide variety of complementary or alternative treatments. Herbal therapies which involve the use of herbs and vitamins, acupuncture, holistic healing, meditation, and yoga are a fraction of the alternative treatments that can be employed against mesothelioma. Although many alternative treatments are not recognized in traditional medical practices, many doctors and healthcare practitioners are more accepting and open minded of how effective these non-traditional treatments can be. As a result of their willingness to embrace new ideas, some of these enterprising doctors have opened up their own alternative medicine practice.

Getting Help

Keep in mind that you may qualify for significant compensation if you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related cancer, or asbestosis. Use our free Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma attorney in your area.

How to Find the Best Mesothelioma Lawyer or Law Firm

If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer or any other illness caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos, there are many decisions you must make. Of course, your top priority will be taking care of yourself and focusing on the medical aspects and mesothelioma treatment choices. You will also have to deal with an array of other issues, such as how much will it cost to treat your asbestos-related illness and how will it affect your family. In the first few days, you might not even think about hiring a mesothelioma lawyer because of your pressing emotional and medical concerns.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that you may be entitled to substantial compensation. We invite you to use our Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool to find a top mesothelioma lawyer in your area. With over $30 billion currently in asbestos trust funds, now is the right time to take the first step in determining what you may qualify for.

Hiring the Best Mesothelioma Attorney

If this is the first time that you have needed to hire an attorney, you need to know that asbestos and mesothelioma cases should not be handled by just anyone with a law practice. Like car accident or nursing home abuse lawyers, asbestos and mesothelioma attorneys specialize in a narrow niche of personal injury law, with a unique focus on asbestos-related lawsuits.

This field is extremely complex and requires knowledge about the asbestos industry, knowledge of mesothelioma treatments, exposure to asbestos, and investigative methods to determine who is at fault. The average personal injury lawyer might have a general idea about cases related to asbestos, but may not have the experience or skill sets to handle your case in a way that an accomplished mesothelioma lawyer can. A mesothelioma attorney has the right tools and experience to help you deal with the complexities of your case and to help you win fair compensation for your asbestos-related illness.

Keep in mind that there is no one-size-fits-all mold which produces mesothelioma and asbestos lawyers. Every individual lawyer has a unique method of handling cases, and each law firm has its own set of legal strategies in dealing with asbestos law. Some lawyers have dealt with cases such as yours for years and understand first-hand about the disease, including the harsh symptoms of mesothelioma and what victims have to live with on a daily basis.
On the other hand, other attorneys are newcomers to the world of mesothelioma law, and although they may have asbestos-related training, they lack the experience of actual cases. Choosing the right lawyer to handle your case can be a challenge, especially if you’re stressing over your illness, your bills, and how this is affecting your loved ones. However, as previously mentioned, if you arm yourself with knowledge and options, finding a good lawyer doesn’t have to be difficult.

Steps To Finding The Best Lawyer or Law Firm

Choosing a mesothelioma attorney is not a task that should be done in haste. You should never hire a lawyer just because a law firm’s TV ad was loud and flashy. There are many attorneys and law firms competing to handle asbestos or mesothelioma cases, but some are inexperienced newcomers who might not be able to handle your case properly. You need to separate the good lawyers from the not-so-good ones. But with so many law firms and attorneys out there, how do you find the right one?

1: Research 

The first step is to do research on mesothelioma and asbestos attorneys. This sounds easy enough, but it requires time, patience, and energy. These three assets might be in short supply, especially when you are tired and don’t feel well, yet it’s important to make sure you seek out the best mesothelioma law firm for your particular case and needs. If you feel you aren’t up to the challenge, consider enlisting family members and/or friends to help you conduct Internet searches and make lists of law firms or attorneys who may be qualified to handle your case.

Whether you conduct your own research or delegate it to others, look for attorneys with the right qualifications and established histories of dealing with asbestos law. Don’t make a list that’s too long. Select a manageable number of prospective mesothelioma law firms and ask for a case evaluation as quickly as possible. If a law firm can’t evaluate your case in a timely manner, there is a chance they may be too busy to take on your case. With cases as sensitive as mesothelioma lawsuits, you’ll need an attorney who not only has the experience, but also the time and effort to dedicate themselves to the unique needs of your case.
2: Internet 
Looking on the Internet is a convenient and relatively simple method to find the best attorney. The search terms “asbestos lawyer” and “mesothelioma attorneys” yield literally thousands of search engine results. Though the sheer number of lawyer websites is staggering, you can figure out the better ones simply by reading the information provided on home pages and FAQ sections. An experienced mesothelioma law firm’s website should provide you detailed information regarding all aspects of asbestos-related diseases, state statute of limitations, pertinent information regarding lawsuits, and answers to important questions you may have.
3. Comprehensive Websites 
If the information is well-written, free of hyperbole, and covers detailed information, add the firms’ names to your list of possible choices. Steer clear of websites belonging to attorneys who make exaggerated promises about how much you will win if you retain them to handle your case. Although it’s important to seek out a law firm’s track record of previous successful mesothelioma lawsuits, no law firm can guarantee exactly how much you’ll win.
Keep in mind that although mesothelioma legal cases were relatively obscure until the number of documented mesothelioma cases rose in the 1990s and 2000s, they are usually lucrative and many cases are successful. Yet, there are an array of factors that affect each case, such as the stage of the disease, how you long you were exposed, and much more. Therefore, it’s not possible for a mesothelioma law firm to promise you a set amount of money beforehand. The best lawyers will never make you false promises of how much compensation you can win, although giving you a ballpark figure shouldn’t be seen as a red flag.

Key Points in Finding the Best Mesothelioma Law Firm

• Knowledgeable in all aspects of state and federal asbestos laws
• Extensive knowledge of all asbestos-related diseases, such as malignant mesothelioma and asbestosis
• Training on how to handle families with lost loved ones and/or victims going through emotional trauma
• Proper investigative skills in order to research prior company records, and if applicable, previous lawsuits against the defendant
• A professional law firm typically offers a no-obligation consultation in order to determine if they can successfully handle your case

Additional Tips:

Get Client References: If you want to find out how well mesothelioma lawyers handle their cases, ask for testimonials from some of their clients. Prospective hires will provide you with a list of satisfied clients who have cleared the attorneys to give to their names and contact information. You probably will see only positive feedback, but you can get a good feel for how successfully the lawyers handled previous cases.

Get a Consultation: Once you have a short list of attorneys that fit the needs of your asbestos lawsuit, begin contacting them and ask for a pre-screening. The initial contact can be made on the Internet via the attorneys’ websites or by phone. The consultation, however, is best done in person because this is when the attorneys evaluate your case. During this evaluation, the asbestos lawyers will advise you on your case’s validity, your chances of getting a settlement, and how much of a percentage of the award they will get if you win. Keep in mind, as aforementioned, the best mesothelioma lawyers will usually offer you a free, no-obligation consultation before taking on your case.

Legal Help

If you or a loved one are suffering from mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, keep in mind that you may be eligible for a substantial amount of compensation. Use our Asbestos Attorney Locator Tool today to find a leading mesothelioma lawyer in your area. For additional assistance, contact us toll-free at 800-793-4540.

West virginia mesothelioma lawyer

West virginia mesothelioma lawyer - For the past decade, West Virginia ranked in the top five among U.S. states where asbestos related lawsuits are filed, and lawmakers there have done little to change that trend. In fact, even though there is new legislation tightening up the area of mass torts, West Virginia’s overall status has improved because other top states enacted significantly tougher filing limits.

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Get help finding an attorney who knows the process and can get you and your family the compensation you deserve.

Get Help Now Between 1998 and 2000, West Virginia and four other states accounted for two-thirds of all U.S. asbestos case filings. As of 2006, the state processed an estimated 33,000 asbestos claims. By 2008, West Virginia developed a reputation for having plaintiff-friendly courts and juries. As more and more people become aware of mesothelioma cancer and their rights to collect financial benefits because of the disease, West Virginia continues to be a popular jurisdiction for new asbestos case filings.

Asbestos Exposure in West Virginia

Occupational asbestos exposure poses considerable health risks in West Virginia. Exposure to asbestos dust around coal mining areas and mining equipment can lead to serious illnesses. Although the state is best known for its coal mines, West Virginia's power plants, oil refineries, railroads, steel mills and other industries also have high incidences of asbestos use. It is no surprise that Kanawha County, center of industry in the state, is also center stage for thousands of asbestos lawsuits.
More than 25% of West Virginia’s asbestos-related deaths occurred in Kanawha County. An analysis of government data shows there were at least 594 asbestos-related deaths in the state by 2001. The actual number is almost certainly higher because asbestos mortality data dates back only to 1979 and does not include mesothelioma deaths that occurred before the government began tracking such deaths in 1999. That total does not include asbestos-related lung and gastrointestinal cancers.

Filing a Lawsuit in West Virginia

During the past decade, the West Virginia Legislature and state courts established specific rules and procedures to manage the large number of asbestos claims. Experienced mesothelioma attorneys are familiar with those rules and the West Virginia case process, including the following:

What Is The Mass Litigation Panel?

West Virginia's Supreme Court of Appeals has established a special panel to handle mass litigation cases such as asbestos personal injury lawsuits. Asbestos cases filed in West Virginia are currently referred to the Circuit Court of Kanawha County.
Procedures for filing asbestos cases are established in the MLP's Asbestos Case Management Order. The MLP requires a "Plaintiff Fact Sheet" from each plaintiff in a pending asbestos personal injury case. Plaintiffs must provide a significant amount of personal information on the Fact Sheet, including work history, smoking history, medical providers and any benefits (e.g., workers compensation and disability).

What Is Case Management?

Case consolidation is a process that courts use to group similar claims for processing. Courts typically use consolidation as a tool to reduce multiple filings, streamline case scheduling and expedite trials. West Virginia judges have supported mass consolidation of asbestos claims for many years. For example:

• In 2002, the Kanawha County Circuit Court consolidated 7715 claims. (Adkins v. Mobil Oil Corp., No. 01-50987, Kanawha Co. Cir. Ct., W.Va.)
• The court consolidated over 9,000 claims in 1994. In re Asbestos Cases I-IV, Civ. Act. No. 92-C-8888 et al. (Kanawha Co. Cir. Ct., W.Va.).

Under the current MLP Asbestos Case Management Order, plaintiffs' attorneys are directed to designate "trial groups" of twenty cases. The court schedules trials for three of these groups each year.

What Is Medical Severity?

Asbestos cases are also divided into categories based on the severity of the plaintiffs' illnesses. The categories are used to group cases for scheduling.

There are three categories:

• Category I Cases include plaintiffs who have been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer. Each plaintiff must provide a report from a board-certified pathologist. The report must state that the injury was proximately caused by asbestos exposure.
  
  Category I plaintiffs receive first priority in any trial groups created under the Case Management Order. Any Category I plaintiff who dies before being deposed is moved to Category II.
• Category II Cases include deceased plaintiffs who were diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer. A report from a board-certified pathologist is also required for each of these plaintiffs.
• Category III Cases include plaintiffs who have been diagnosed with non-malignant, asbestos-related diseases (e.g., asbestosis).

What Are Hardship Cases?

Attorneys for each trial group may ask the court to replace two group members with "hardship cases." These cases include instances where the plaintiff cannot afford critical medical care or basic living needs. Hardship cases also include plaintiffs who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma.

$32 Billion in Trust Funds Remaining

Find out how these funds help compensate victims of asbestos exposure in West Virginia.

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Hardship status is not available if plaintiffs’ lawyers knew of the circumstances causing the hardship when they first created the trial group. Any requests to substitute hardship cases must be made within 90 days after the trial group is formed. Requests must be in writing and defendants receive an opportunity to object to a proposed substitution.

What Is Joint and Several Liability?

West Virginia law provides for joint and several liability. This means that a plaintiff who wins a judgment may generally recover the entire amount from any one of the liable defendants. Joint and several liability applies to both economic damages (e.g., medical expenses) and non-economic damages (e.g., pain and suffering).
Experienced mesothelioma attorneys carefully review their client’s circumstances to determine which companies should be named as defendants.

What Are Punitive Damages?

Punitive damages awards are possible under West Virginia law. Unlike some states, West Virginia does not place a statutory cap on punitive damages in asbestos cases.
Punitive damages are sometimes awarded to punish losing defendants for malicious conduct or to deter them from causing more injuries. Examples of West Virginia punitive damages awards include the following:
In 1998, an unreported amount of punitive damages were awarded in a case involving over 7000 individual claims. In re Mon-Mass I-II, Civ. Act. No. 93-C-362 et al. (Monongalia Co. Cir. Ct., W.Va.).

• Punitive damages were also awarded in a case involving 10,000 legal claims in 1994. In re Asbestos Cases I-IV, Civ. Act. No. 92-C-8888 et al. (Kanawha Co. Cir. Ct., W.Va.).
• In 1990, a jury awarded $40,000 in punitive damages to the estate of a man who died from an asbestos-related disease. Davis v. Celotex, 420 S.E.2d 557 (1992)

Each case differs and there is no guarantee that a jury will award punitive or any other kind of damages. It is best to talk to a mesothelioma attorney about your options for compensation.

What Are Asbestos Bankruptcy Trust Claims?

The MLP's Case Management Order requires that plaintiffs disclose any claims that may exist against bankruptcy trusts no later than 120 days before trial. The disclosure must include information about diagnosis and work history. Plaintiffs or their counsel must include a statement that the disclosure is based on "good faith investigation" of all potential asbestos trust claims.
Information about trust claims is shared with defendants. Courts may require claimants to disclose the amounts they receive or expect to receive from bankruptcy trusts. Defendants are entitled to deduct these amounts from verdicts as "set-offs."
Proposed legislation introduced in 2011 would also allow defendants who settle asbestos claims to receive credit for trust payments.

Mesothelioma

When you or a loved one is diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is an overwhelming and devastating experience. Malignant mesothelioma is a rare and incurable type of cancer associated with exposure to asbestos. It has been estimated by the U.S. Department of Labor that approximately 1.3 million employees in construction and general industry have faced significant asbestos exposure at some point while on the job. The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.

What is Asbestos?

The term "asbestos" refers to a number of naturally occurring mineral fibers. These fibers are strong, durable, poor conductors of electricity, and heat resistant. Because of these properties, asbestos was widely used in manufacturing and construction through the mid 1970's. Although the use of asbestos was first regulated in the 1970s by the U.S. government, its use continued in asbestos cement products, automotive brakes and gaskets into the 1990's.
Asbestos has also been used in consumer products such as baby powder and cigarette filters, and in the manufacturing process of electrical appliances such as hair dryers, crock pots, toasters, coffee pots, baby powder and popcorn poppers.
Most victims of asbestos exposure are industrial and construction workers, but asbestos fibers from workers' clothing have affected their family members as well. Children and spouses of industrial workers have developed mesothelioma as a result of exposure in the household.

Mesothelioma and Other Life-Threatening Illnesses

Exposure to asbestos can lead to the following life-threatening health conditions:

• Asbestosis occurs when one inhales asbestos fibers that become trapped inside the lungs. After inhalation, the body will produce an acid in an attempt to dissolve these fibers, which may cause scarring around the surrounding lung tissue. Eventually, this scarring can become so severe that it will disrupt lung function. The latency period for developing asbestosis is estimated at 25 to 40 years.
• Lung Cancer is an illness characterized by uncontrolled growth in the lung tissue. The most common symptoms are shortness of breath, coughing, and weight loss. Smoking can increase the risk of lung cancer in people who have been exposed to asbestos.
• Mesothelioma is cancer of the mesothelium--the lining around the heart, chest, lungs, and abdomen that protects the organs and produces fluid to cushion them as they function. Mesothelioma tumors occur in the thin membranes that line the lungs, abdomen or heart. A diagnosis of mesothelioma is very serious. Each year approximately 3000 people in the United States are diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma. The three most common types of mesothelioma are:
• Pleural Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the lung. This is the most common form and is usually caused from breathing in asbestos fibers. It causes fluid and tumors in the lungs and/or and chest that restrict, and in advanced stages, cut off breathing. Symptoms of Pleural Mesothelioma include shortness of breath; weight loss; hoarse voice; hard time swallowing; coughing up blood; chest pain or pain in the upper abdomen, shoulder or arm; fever; and pleural effusion, which is a buildup of fluid in the lungs or chest.
• Peritoneal Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the abdominal cavity. This type is typically caused from swallowing asbestos fibers, but can also result from lymph nodes circulating the fibers to the area. Symptoms of Peritoneal Mesothelioma often include a feeling of discomfort or a mass or swelling in the abdomen; weight loss; fever; bowel obstruction and blood clots.
• Pericardial Mesothelioma occurs in the lining of the heart. This is the rarest form and can be caused from breathing or swallowing asbestos fibers which the lymph nodes circulate to the area. Pericardial Mesothelioma restricts the movement of the heart and patients experience the shortest life expectancy with this type. Symptoms of Pericardial Mesothelioma include chest pain or a "tight" feeling near the heart; persistent cough; weight loss; fever; and/or an irregular breathing pattern or heartbeat, especially during exercise or exertion.

Who Has Been Exposed?

As mentioned, those in the construction and industrial industries are considered most at risk. Everyone has been exposed to some amount of asbestos in their lifetime, however. Most people diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness were exposed on a regular basis, usually on-the-job. Asbestos was widely used in a variety of industries, from oil refineries to railways. It was used in thousands of products, and still remains in many buildings.

Main Industries

Health risks from asbestos increase with longer and heavier exposure. Below are the industries most associated with asbestos-related illnesses:

• Military - asbestos was used throughout all branches of the military, but was most prevalent on ships. 
• Construction - asbestos was extensively used in construction, from ceiling and floor tiles to joint compounds and cements. This includes demolition workers, drywall removers, and do-it-yourself enthusiasts.
• Commercial and Industrial Sites - including power plants, steel mills, chemical plants, and oil refineries. 
• Shipbuilding - asbestos was an ideal material for the shipbuilding industry, used everywhere from boilers to galleys.
• Mining and Milling - U.S. consumption of asbestos peaked in 1973, with hundreds of mining operations throughout the country. One mine continued operation until 2002. 
• Auto Repair - auto mechanics are exposed to asbestos through brake repair. 

Second-Hand Exposure

Workers who were heavily exposed to asbestos often brought home the asbestos dust on their clothing, skin, shoes and hair. Because of this, their families face an increased risk of mesothelioma. This is known as second-hand, or at-home exposure to asbestos.
Our team of asbestos exposure attorneys has a vast database of companies, products, occupations and sites that used asbestos. We will find the source of your exposure for you, so you can focus on your health.

Contact an Experienced Asbestos Exposure Attorney

Many people with Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related cancers mistakenly believe that the asbestos companies did not know their products caused cancer until it became newsworthy in the 1970's. In fact, there is evidence that manufacturers of asbestos products knew as early as the 1930's that workers were at risk for lung cancer and mesothelioma from asbestos exposure.
With over four decades of experience, the Pintas & Mullins Law Firm has extensive knowledge about many types of toxic substance cases, especially asbestos exposure. Our attorneys work to ensure that you receive the best representation and the largest settlement possible. If you or a loved one has suffered from asbestos exposure, contact us today. We will provide you with a free no-obligation consultation and explain your legal rights.

Resources

National Cancer Institute: Mesothelioma
Visit this link on the National Cancer Institute's website to learn more about mesothelioma. The National Cancer Institute is part of the United States federal government National Institutes of Health.
National Cancer Institute: Asbestos Exposure and Cancer Risk
Visit this link on the National Cancer Institute's website to learn more about asbestos exposure and cancer risk. The National Cancer Institute is part of the United States federal government National Institutes of Health.