What is Mesothelioma
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is the term used to describe a cancerous tumor that
involves the mesothelial cells of an organ. Mesothelial cells
are cells that form a protective lining over the lungs, heart
and abdominal organs. The most common type of mesothelioma is
pleural mesothelioma. The pleura is a thin membrane found
between the lungs and the chest cavity. It provides a lubricated
surface so that the lungs do not rub and chafe against the chest
walls.
What causes it?
Virtually all cases of mesothelioma are related to inhaling of
asbestos fibers. There are about 3,000 cases per year (mostly
men over the age of 40) and there will be about 300,000 cases
before 2030. Mesothelioma usually spreads rapidly through the
mesothelial cells to the heart and abdominal organs. The life
span is typically 24 months after diagnosis, but it depends on
what stage the cancer is detected, the health of the patient and
other factors.
Although asbestos exposure causes mesothelioma, it has a latency
period after exposure that could last 15 to 50 years. This means
that someone who worked in a factory with asbestos 40 years ago
could be developing mesothelioma now. Anyone who knows they were
exposed to loose asbestos fibers should be tested regularly for
mesothelioma.
Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
The onset of mesothelioma symptoms usually takes a long time.
The first symptom is often a constant chest pain. This pain is
later accompanies by difficulty breathing due to an accumulation
of fluid in the chest. Other symptoms include coughing, fever
and weight loss. Mesothelioma can be diagnosed by your doctor
with a chest CT-scan.
What Needs to Happen?
After a positive mesothelioma diagnosis, your doctor will
discuss the available treatment options. Many newer treatments
promise to improve patients quality of life and add several
years of life. What may not be explained the that the disease is
not a random act of nature, but the result of a dangerous
product that was used despite evidence of the harm it would
cause. Companies have had to pay workers billions of dollars to
compensate them and their families for this wanton disregard of
human life and safety.
Will there be a lawsuit?
Most people are reluctant to take legal action. However,
Mesothelioma presents a nearly 100% certainty that someone or a
company is at fault. If the person's work history can be traced,
the likelihood is that a very large settlement awaits the
victim. Your attorney can explain the details, but most claims
settle out of court very quickly, unlike many other types of
cases.
How much will I get?
The amount of the settlements varies greatly, but usually start
at half million to several million. The award is based on many
factors such as the amount of funds available, the duration and
location of the asbestos exposure, the persons overall health.
Your attorney will know how to maximize the recovery to get the
most compensation for you and your family.