In recent years, we’ve heard the term mesothelioma more frequently as more former factory workers, refinery workers and military personnel are being diagnosed with the rare, but fatal cancer. Malignant mesothelioma is the term used to describe a rare form of cancer that is directly linked to asbestos exposure. This type of cancer forms on the protective tissue surrounding the lungs and abdomen; it is extremely aggressive, and although there is no current cure, there are several treatment options that can help patients improve their quality of life and lengthen their survival time.

For more information about mesothelioma and the types of treatments and other resources such as financial compensation that are available, contact MesotheliomaCompensation today. We specialize in helping individuals and families that are suffering as a result of this asbestos-caused cancer — we can help you get in touch with the best treatment facilities in your area and pursue the financial compensation you need to not only pay for expensive treatments but to meet other financial responsibilities as well.

What Causes Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is directly linked to asbestos exposure; in fact, 70-80 percent of all persons with mesothelioma were exposed to the dangerous toxin while at work. The majority of cases are seen in people with long-term exposure to asbestos fibers, but in some cases, short-term exposure can cause the cancer to develop as well.
Today there are strict regulations enforcing the use of asbestos; but this wasn’t always the case. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) didn’t start regulating asbestos exposure in the workplace until 1971. Before that, asbestos was used heavily in factories, refineries and in the production and manufacture of several types of products due to its heat and fire resistant properties.
Jobsites where asbestos was commonly used include:

• Oil refineries
• Power plants
• Chemical plants
• Metal works shops
• Shipyards, ship repair
• Auto repair shops
• Construction sites, particularly during the removal of asbestos during renovation, repairs or demolition
• Manufacturing facilities where asbestos products were made such as textiles, insulation, drywall, friction products, roofing, flooring, siding, brakes and clutches, etc.

The men and women who worked the millions of jobs in these industries are at the highest risk for developing mesothelioma. But, people who lived nearby the factories as well as the families of those who worked for them are also at risk. Mesothelioma symptoms can take decades to develop, so many people who were exposed 20-50 years ago are just now being diagnosed.

How Does Asbestos Cause Mesothelioma?

Asbestos, in its natural state, is not harmful to the body. It only becomes dangerous when the microscopic fibers separate and form a dust that can be inhaled through the mouth or nose. Once inhaled, the fibers can become lodged into the lining of lungs, heart or abdomen (mesothelial tissue); and overtime, can lead to cellular damage and tumor growth.

When work activities, such as the manufacture, repair or demolition of asbestos products, disturb the mineral, tiny fibers can be released into the air and inhaled by anyone nearby. When inhaled, the body struggles to get rid of the fibers, causing severe irritation; and eventually, inflammation, scarring and damage occurs that can lead to diseases such as cancer.

What are the Different Types of Mesothelioma?

There are three different types of mesothelioma:

• Pleural mesothelioma: Pleural mesothelioma, which forms on the lining of the lungs, is the most common type of mesothelioma, representing about 75 percent of all diagnoses.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma: Peritoneal mesothelioma, the second most common type of asbestos cancer, forms on the lining of the abdominal cavity.
• Pericardial mesothelioma: Pericardial mesothelioma, the rarest form of the cancer, only represents about 1 percent of diagnoses. It occurs on the lining of the heart and is the most difficult to treat.

What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

Symptoms of mesothelioma, in the beginning stages, can be so mild that many people fail to recognize or notice them until the cancer has advanced to a late stage. Typically in the beginning, symptoms include slight pain and fatigue. In the later stages, a person may experience:

• Shortness of breath
• Pain around the tumor site
• Bowel obstruction
• Unexplained weight loss
• Difficulty swallowing
• Dry cough
• Fatigue

What Treatment Options are Available?

The most common treatments for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. In most cases, patients will receive a combination of two or more treatments. Today, there are several different types of experimental therapies, alternative and palliative treatments available that can help ease the symptoms of the cancer, making it more bearable. For more information about mesothelioma treatments, visit our treatments page.

What Resources are Available to Mesothelioma Victims?

Mesothelioma treatments are expensive, especially alternative and palliative therapies that are designed to help with pain and increase the quality of life for patients. At MesotheliomaCompensation, we are familiar with all the financial resources that are available for mesothelioma patients and their families, including asbestos trusts fund and grants. We can also help you pursue a settlement or cash award that can help with other financial responsibilities such as securing the financial future of your family.

To learn more about your rights and other options such as mesothelioma lawsuits, contact us today. We offer free case reviews and do not charge attorney fees until we recover compensation for our clients.