Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer that has been directly linked to occupational exposure of asbestos. Mesothelioma cancer is characterized by scarring of lung tissues that comprise the lining of the chest wall. Once exposed, asbestos particles lodge in the lung tissues of the worker and remain there indefinitely. There is no known way to remove embedded fibers. Asbestos particles resemble a hook or barb and, over time, cause tumors that lead to a mesothelioma diagnosis.
At this time, there is no known cure for mesothelioma cancers. Although treatments, such as radiation and chemotherapy, can prolong the life of the sufferer, no definitive treatment will prolong life for more than 6 to 12 months after diagnosis on average.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is mined for its use in fire-proof materials. The mineral, in its natural state, resembles a shiny rock that is covered in cobwebs. Asbestos has been used for centuries, dating as far back as Roman times, as a means of producing fire-resistant materials.
Asbestos was widely used in many industrial setting until the mid-1970s. It was then realized the link between asbestos and mesothelioma was undeniable and the occurrence of mesothelioma-related illness began to be diagnosed with greater frequency. From the time asbestos was ruled to be a common health hazard, measures have been taken by industrial manufacturers to decrease the amount of asbestos materials used in product manufacturing. However, even though the use of asbestos has been on the decline, many products are still designed with asbestos as part of their designs.
If you or someone you know may have been exposed to asbestos, you should take action and contact an attorney that specializes in mesothelioma litigation. Many millions of dollars have already been paid out to those who are now suffering from asbestos-based mesothelioma cancer.
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