Lung cancer is a deadly disease that kills more people worldwide than any other form of cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. You may think lung cancer only affects cigarette smokers, but that is a misconception. Though smoking is a leading risk factor for developing lung cancer, there are other dangerous substances that can increase your chances of developing the disease. There is a known link between lung cancer and exposure to radon, asbestos, and other carcinogens.
Every lung cancer case is different, but if you were exposed to a harmful substance, or your condition was made worse by a medical error, a Colorado lung cancer lawyer may be able to assist you in seeking compensation. To learn more about working with an attorney, call (800) 217-6099 to speak with the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm.
Causes of Lung Cancer
While cigarette smoke and exposure to second-hand smoke absolutely cause lung cancer, about 25 percent of lung cancer patients have never smoked, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
There are other known carcinogens that can lead to the development of lung cancer. They can include:
- Radon – Radon is the leading cause of lung cancer among non-smokers in the United States. This naturally-occurring, radioactive gas can sometimes be found in homes and buildings, particularly in basements. Radon also is present in some building materials, including wallboard and granite countertops. Radon exposure can be more common in minors, people who work with phosphate fertilizer, or workers in uranium processing factories. When you breathe in radon, your lungs are exposed to low levels of radiation, which can spur cancer growth.
- Asbestos – People who have been exposed to asbestos have a much greater risk of developing a rare form of lung cancer called mesothelioma. This type of cancer develops in the tissue lining the lungs. The chance of asbestos exposure is especially great in people who work in industries where the substance is used, such as textile plants, shipyards, and asbestos mines. Asbestos can be contained in building materials, so there may also be a greater risk to people who work in demolition, construction, and remodeling.
- Radioactive metals, chemicals, and diesel – People who work around radioactive ores, like uranium, have a greater risk of contracting lung cancer. Your risk also is greater if you are exposed to harmful chemicals, such as arsenic, chromium compounds, and mustard gas. Lung cancer also has been linked to inhaling diesel fumes.
Lung Cancer Signs and Symptoms
According to the Cleveland Clinic, signs and symptoms of lung cancer may be mild or minimal until the disease is more advanced. Early symptoms may include coughing, persistent infections, chest pain, and wheezing.
If your cancer is more advanced or has spread to other areas of the body, you may experience bone pain, weight loss, and muscle weakness. If you have any of these symptoms, you may want to consult your doctor about a cancer screening, especially if you know you have been around cancer-causing substances.
For a free legal consultation with a Lung Cancer Lawyer serving Denver, call (800) 217-6099
Pursuing a Lung Cancer Lawsuit
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any other form of lung cancer, and you believe it was caused by asbestos or another carcinogen, you may be entitled to compensation. A Colorado lung cancer lawyer may be able to help you with a lawsuit against your place of employment of other entities responsible for your exposure.
Treating cancer can be a long, exhausting, and expensive process. A lawyer can help you fight for awards to pay for your medical expenses, including diagnostic testing, chemotherapy and radiation treatments, surgeries, and palliative care. You may also be able to secure monetary awards to help you and your family with your wages while you are unable to work.
Additionally, a lawyer can seek compensation for your pain and suffering. Your disease is not your fault, but nonetheless, you and your family must bear both the physical and emotional struggle that comes from fighting lung cancer. You also must endure a reduction in your quality of life as you are weakened by your cancer and the often aggressive methods of cancer treatment.
If you lost a loved one to lung cancer, you may be able to seek benefits on their behalf. In addition to their expenses, you can be compensated for your pain and suffering, as well as other damages arising from their death.
Medical Malpractice
Lung cancer lawsuits are not limited to suing over-exposure to cancer-causing agents. If you or a loved one’s lung cancer was misdiagnosed or undiagnosed, you could have the basis for a medical malpractice lawsuit.
If your doctor missed the signs of lung cancer or misdiagnosed your lung cancer for another condition, it may constitute professional negligence. Reach out to a Colorado lung cancer lawyer to learn more about medical malpractice lawsuits.
If you decide to take legal action, you have two years to sue for wrongful death or personal injury under Colorado Revised Statutes §3-80-102. You can seek damages in a medical malpractice suit up to two years from the time the malpractice occurred, or no more than three years from when the medical error was discovered, according to Colorado Revised Statutes §13-80-102.5.
Denver Lung Cancer Lawyer Near Me (800) 217-6099
Help Is Available
At Pintas & Mullins Law Firm, we understand that this is a difficult time for you and your family. We want you to focus on fighting your disease, not fighting for your rights. A Colorado lung cancer lawyer can take care of the legal battle for you, so you can turn your attention to your health.
The team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm is here to advocate for you, and we will not get paid unless we win your case. To learn more, call our offices at (800) 217-6099 to take advantage of our risk-free consultation.
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