What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the thin membrane lining (called the “mesothelium”) that surrounds many organs like the lungs and heart. Like most cancers, it creates abnormal cells that multiply out of control, disturbing the natural function of the lining and invading nearby organs and tissues. Ultimately it can “metastasize” or spread to other parts of the body.

Almost all cases of mesothelioma occur as a direct result of breathing in asbestos. Although its use in the U.S. has drastically declined, asbestos was widely used for strengthening products, as a type of insulation, and as a fire retardant up until the 1970s. The highest incidents of mesothelioma are among those who have worked with asbestos on the job, or people who have lived with these workers (the fibers can be carried by clothes and breathed in by others). However there are some studies now that suggest people living near industrial plants that use asbestos, or even people living near natural sources of asbestos may have an increased risk of developing the disease.

Mesothelioma is hard to detect and almost always incurable. The five-year survival rate for those who do catch it early on is only 20%. For those in advanced stages of the disease, which accounts for most mesothelioma patients, the survival rate is even lower.

Most at risk are those 50-75 years of age, mostly because the disease takes a long time to appear. There have been some cases of the disease showing up at 15 years after exposure to asbestos, but usually it takes 20 to 40 years to develop. Those people who have worked for many years with the mineral are more likely to contract mesothelioma, but even people who only had a short amount of contact (two or three months) can get the disease. The amount of asbestos during exposure plays a large role in the risk as well.

Asbestos can cause a wide range of lung ailments as well, including non-cancerous mesothelioma, lung scarring, and a gradual destruction of lung tissue. It can also cause other chronic lung diseases like pneumoconiosis.

If you have developed mesothelioma or any asbestos-related disease from work or at home, contact a personal injury lawyer at Jim S. Adler & Associates. You may have a case against any number of companies in the asbestos industry. This is a dangerous substance and a known carcinogen, and if you were not properly protected against fiber inhalation you have the right to seek compensation. Contact us directly right now, or click on the link on this page for a free case review. We will ensure that you get the compensation package you deserve.

Mesothelioma Lawyer | Mesothelioma and the workplace