According to MedlinePlus, mesothelioma is a rare but serious cancer of the mesothelium, the tissue that lines many internal organs. Usually, mesothelioma begins in the lungs, but it can also begin in the abdomen, the heart, or the testicles. It is contracted through inhalation of asbestos particles.
If you or a loved one received a diagnosis of mesothelioma, a Kentucky mesothelioma lawyer may be able to help. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm at (800) 614-2067 to learn more.
The Use and Hazards of Asbestos
According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), asbestos is the name given to a group of naturally occurring minerals that are resistant to heat and corrosion. Asbestos was previously used in pipe insulation, floor tiles, building materials, vehicle brakes, and clutches. Heavy exposure occurs in the construction industry and in ship repair, especially during the removal of asbestos materials due to demolition, renovation, or repairs.
For decades, asbestos could be found everywhere, from building materials and roofing to common household and garden products and children’s crayons. When handled, asbestos can separate into unseen particles that remain in the air and are easily inhaled. Once inhaled, the particles get trapped in the lungs and remain there for a long time. Eventually, these particles accumulate and cause scarring and inflammation that affect breathing and lead to serious health problems.
Asbestos has been mined and used in North America since the late 1800s, according to Cancer.gov. Its use increased greatly during World War II, but beginning in the 1970s, the federal government started regulating it due to health concerns. Some companies continued to make asbestos-containing products despite the health risks involved.
Asbestos exposure of just a few days has been shown to cause mesothelioma in humans. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have all classified asbestos as a human carcinogen or cancer-causing agent. Even though asbestos use has declined dramatically in recent years, it still remains a high risk to many workers, builders, and tenants of old buildings.
Asbestos exposure may also increase the risk of asbestosis (inflammatory lung condition) and other noncancerous lung disorders, including pleural plaques, pleural thickening, and benign pleural effusions. People with pleural disease caused by asbestos exposure may have a higher risk of lung cancer.
Mesothelioma Symptoms Are Similar to Lung Cancer Symptoms
The long latency period for mesothelioma can be up to 40 years. The asbestos exposure likely happened decades before a diagnosis is made. Once symptoms of mesothelioma appear, they may include:
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or hoarseness
- Persistent cough
- Loss of appetite
- Weight Loss
- Fatigue or anemia
- Chest pain
- Pain, swelling, or lumps in the abdomen
- Pain under the rib cage
A chest X-ray and bronchoscopy or lung biopsy help in the diagnosis. Treatment can be difficult at this advanced stage, but may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
You or a loved one have suffered a lot already and should not have to suffer further. The liable party should have to pay for your costs, not you. The liable party could be a company, an employer, a landlord, or another who allowed you to be exposed to asbestos knowing its health risks and doing nothing to warn or protect you. They may have harmed additional people if you brought it home on your clothes or hair and your family was exposed.
Call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today for your free case assessment.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 794-0444
A Lawyer Will Help to Determine How You Suffered Exposure to Asbestos
A Kentucky mesothelioma lawyer is willing to listen to the details of your case. They will ask you where you think you suffered exposure to asbestos and how. They will discuss your legal options with you and ask if and how you would like to proceed. They will listen to your concerns and put your mind at ease.
You have suffered many economic and noneconomic damages that you may be compensated for. These damages may include:
- Doctor and hospital visits
- Medical tests
- Medication and treatment
- Emotional trauma
- Missed paychecks
- Job loss
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
A lawyer will file a personal injury claim for you and, if a loved one died, a wrongful death claim. They will represent you in court and fight for your rights and compensation. They will answer any questions you have, keep you informed of the legal proceedings at each and every step, and tell you what you should and should not do to help your case.
Companies that make products containing asbestos most likely already have lawyers working for them. However, your lawyer will not shy away from a tough case and will fight for justice and compensation for you until a satisfactory outcome is reached. You will have peace of mind, knowing that someone is on your side and working hard to right the wrong that was done to you.
Connect with a Lawyer to Begin Your Case for Compensation
According to KRS § 413.140, the statute of limitations to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim is one year. One year goes by quickly, so you do not want to delay. Once the time elapses, you will likely be barred from ever filing a claim.
For your free consultation, call Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today at (800) 614-2067. A Kentucky mesothelioma lawyer is ready to help you. We work on a contingency-fee basis, so you pay nothing up front. Our fee comes from the settlement we receive for you.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form