Mesothelioma is a rare and incurable form of cancer caused by asbestos exposure.
It is horrible and can be terrifying to the victims and families.
Inhalation of asbestos fibers can cause serious and fatal illnesses including lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis (a type of pneumoconiosis).
It can result from even minimal exposure. We know from workers in the Navy, rail road, shipyards, shingle manufactures, and any job around manufacturing.
Prior to 1978 it was in Sheetrock compounds, light bulbs, brake pads, electric motors, fiber board, floor tiles, industrial talc powder, roof shingles, ceiling tiles…
For many, the diagnosis comes as quite a shock.
Symptoms of mesothelioma can take anywhere from 10 to 50 years to manifest, and oftentimes the disease is already in advanced stages by the time it is detected.
A chest x ray can’t detect asbestos fibers in the lungs. An xray can show asbestos-related diseases, such as pleural plaque and pleural effusion. Pleural effusion also can be a sign of a more severe disease, such as mesothelioma. Someone with lung cancer, a chest x ray may show masses or abnormal fluid.
It can result from exposure over a long employment or multiple jobs or even single exposures.
The disease is especially found in maintenance jobs or working around items made prior to 1978. Mechanical task such as a brake job on a car or plane or any vehicle can result in exposure.
Many of the companies that manufactured or used asbestos are now bankrupt, but there are over 100 trust set up to compensate victims and their families. However there are still many who can still be sued. One example is manufactures of talc powder.
Some people with mesothelioma live for several years with aggressive treatment. But sadly, most patients die from the illness within 12 to 18 months after diagnosis.
About 2,500 people die from mesothelioma in the U.S. each year. But millions of others come in contact with asbestos every day, both in the workplace and at home. Not all of them will develop mesothelioma. But those who do may be entitled to compensation to assist with medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering.
If you or a family member is suffering from mesothelioma, reach out to the Georgia lawyers at the Spiva Law Group.
For more than 30 years, clients have been turning to our attorneys for help with personal injury matters, including mesothelioma and asbestos-related disease claims. While no amount of money can buy a medical miracle, our Savannah mesothelioma lawyers can help you get the financial security you need to get the best treatment possible and provide for your family’s future.