Mesothelioma is a serious respiratory or stomach condition that develops after exposure to asbestos particles. This condition can cause severe disability and loss of livelihood. Mesothelioma litigation can help people with this condition to get compensation for medical costs and other expenses.
About Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the mesothelial cells that are found in the lining of the lungs and abdomen. When people are exposed to asbestos, the tiny fibers can be inhaled or swallowed. These fibers then set up an inflammation in the cells of the lining, which can eventually change the cell structure and lead to cancer. Mesothelioma of the lungs, called pleural mesothelioma, causes shortness of breath, coughing, rib pain, weight loss and unusual growths under the skin in the chest area. Mesothelioma of the abdomen, called peritoneal mesothelioma, occurs in the lining of the abdomen. It can cause symptoms such as weight loss, abdominal pain, swelling of the abdomen and growths within the abdomen. Because symptoms of mesothelioma may not develop for many years after initial exposure, workers may not realize the link to their former employment as the cause of the disease.
Causes of Mesothelioma
Asbestos exposure has been found to be the prime cause in the development of mesothelioma. The U.S. Occupational Health and Safety Administration, or OSHA, requires that employers in these fields provide workers with safety equipment to prevent exposure to asbestos. This equipment includes respiratory masks, gloves, protective clothing and decontamination areas. Without these measures, workers are at risk for dangerous medical conditions that can affect their health, their ability to work and which can even cause death. Because the work environment is a frequent trigger in the development of mesothelioma, you should contact a mesothelioma lawyer to learn your rights under the law.
Workers Who May Be Exposed To Asbestos
A number of different areas of industry may involve asbestos exposure as part of the work. Construction workers may contact asbestos when remodeling or demolishing older buildings. Automotive workers may be exposed to asbestos when working on brake linings and other parts. Workers in power plants, oil refineries, chemical plants and steel mills may be exposed to asbestos as part of the high-heat operations in these facilities. Shipworkers may be involved with asbestos as part of their work. Military personnel may be exposed to asbestos when on operations in demolished buildings, on submarines, on battleships or when working on military vehicles. Those people who work with boilers and other institutional equipment may be exposed to asbestos. Asbestos fibers may be carried home on the hair, shoes or clothing of these workers, exposing family members to asbestos hazards.
Mesothelioma Litigation
People who have been injured by their working conditions who have developed mesothelioma may be eligible for compensation of medical costs, loss of wages and other expenses by filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. People who have been affected by this disease should contact a mesothelioma lawyer who has the knowledge and experience to advise you on your rights under the law. Make an appointment with an attorney today to discuss your case.