Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for men and has also now surpassed breast cancer as the leading cause of cancer death in women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). In some cases, a negligent manufacturer of a dangerous product or toxin may be responsible for people developing lung cancer.
If you have developed lung cancer because of toxic exposure or another cause that can be attributed to a dangerous product, an Arkansas lung cancer lawyer from Pintas & Mullins Law Firm can review the circumstances surrounding your cancer and explain if you have a viable claim to pursue compensation. Take advantage of your free case review by calling (800) 217-6099.
Common Causes of Lung Cancer
Some causes of lung cancer other than tobacco include:
Radon
Radon is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless radioactive gas, and prolonged periods of exposure to radon can lead to lung cancer. Radon forms naturally from the decay of rocks and radioactive elements.
Radon gas in rocks or soil can move into the air and into underground and surface water. Radon gas in the air can break down into small particles that become lodged in the lining of the lungs, ultimately resulting in lung cancer. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) states that radon accounts for about 21,000 deaths annually in the country.
People can be exposed to radon both indoors and outdoors from such causes as:
- Drinking water
- Cracks in the floor
- Construction joints
- Gaps in foundations around pipes, wires, and pumps
- Crawl spaces in homes
- Building materials, such as concrete and wallboard
- Granite countertops
People in certain jobs, such as underground miners, uranium processing factories, and construction workers may be more likely to be exposed to radon for longer periods of time.
Asbestos
Another relatively common cause of lung cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was affordable, widely available, and resistant to heat and chemical changes, so many industries used this insulating product until its dangers became well known. Asbestos was once part of thousands of different products, including:
- Construction materials like ceiling tiles, floor tiles, vinyl floors, joint compound, and drywall
- Insulating products, including insulation around water heaters and electrical wires
- Car parts, such as brake components, engines, and valves
- Shipbuilding materials, including insulation and materials used in engine and boiler rooms
- Home appliances, including ovens and hair dryers
While asbestos is relatively safe when it is not disturbed, storms, renovations, and demolitions of older buildings may cause asbestos particles to break free, which others may then inhale. This may cause serious medical conditions like mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer.
After exposure to asbestos, it may take victims 10 to 50 years to be diagnosed with an asbestos-causing medical condition, so it is sometimes difficult to determine where exposure may have occurred, according to the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR). Our Arkansas lung cancer lawyers can investigate your claim and review your occupational history to determine the most likely source of your exposure. We can then devise a legal strategy tailored to help you seek compensation for the harm you have suffered.
Other Causes
Some of the other causes of lung cancer include:
- Genetic factors
- Occupational exposure
- Environmental exposure
- Air pollution
- Diesel exhaust
Symptoms of Lung Cancer
The Mayo Clinic reports that lung cancer does not usually cause signs or symptoms during earlier stages. Symptoms of lung cancer at an advanced stage include:
- A new cough that does not go away
- Coughing up blood
- Chest pain or pain in your bones
- A hoarse voice
- Unexplained weight loss
- Loss of appetite
- Frequent headaches
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
Lung cancer can sometimes spread to other parts of the body where it may cause effects such as:
- Weakness or numbness of the arms or legs
- Dizziness or problems with balance
- Seizures
- Jaundice
- Swelling of lymph nodes
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 217-6099
Types of Lung Cancer
There are several types of lung cancer, all of which have their own unique symptoms, treatment options, and prognoses. The major types of lung cancer include small cell and non-small cell lung cancer. Small cell lung cancer tends to grow and spread faster than other types of lung cancers. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are usually used as treatment options.
The following three medical conditions are part of non-small cell lung cancer:
- Adenocarcinoma: This condition begins in the cells where secretions like mucus are formed. Medical providers who detect this condition early on usually find it in the outer parts of the lung before it has spread. It is the most common type of lung cancer observed in non-smokers. People with this condition often have a better prognosis than other types of lung cancer patients.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: This condition usually starts in flat cells that line the inside of the airways. These cancerous cells are often found in the central portion of the lungs.
- Large cell carcinoma: This type of cancer can appear in any part of the lung and tends to spread more quickly, making it more difficult to treat.
Contact Us for a Free Case Review
An Alaska lung cancer lawyer from Pintas & Mullins Law Firm can review the circumstances surrounding your lung cancer and determine if you have a viable cause of action against a third party.
We can provide a free consultation to discuss your legal options and rights. We work on a contingency fee basis, so you are not charged any attorney fees unless we recover compensation for your claim. Contact us at (800) 217-6099 for your free case review.
Call or text (800) 217-6099 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form