3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year, according to the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). Cancer researchers are constantly bringing new information about mesothelioma to light, given that the use of the cancer-causing agent asbestos was only partially banned in the late 1980s.
There are still many unknowns about asbestos exposure, mesothelioma, and other cancers. Despite the uncertainty that prevails, there is a precedent for handling personal injury cases dealing with unnecessary exposure to asbestos-related mesothelioma. Work with a Montana mesothelioma lawyer at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to navigate the tough litigation battles when you need to hold liable parties accountable for their actions. Call our offices now for a free consultation on your case: (800) 794-0444.
Medical Care for Mesothelioma
Screening for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses is not usually considered a routine procedure in general medicine. However, data from previous studies in places like Libby, Montana shows that occupational exposure was a real health concern for people who worked in the mining industries between 1979 and 1998, according to the Agency for Toxic Substance and Disease Registry (ATSDR). During reviews of this time period, researchers determined that mortality rates from asbestos exposure were “40 to 80 times higher than expected.” The same report mentions that data on cancer can be difficult to collect since the disease presents itself in so many different ways.
The time period mentioned above also incorporates when construction and mining industries were partially limited with a few regulations on the manufacturing, importing, and processing of certain asbestos-containing products, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Currently, the law still stands that the only asbestos products banned from the construction market includes any new products or new ways to use asbestos. That means in many older construction buildings, there is still a slight risk of asbestos exposure. The Environmental Protection Agency’s ban on certain asbestos products allows a certain level of exposure to asbestos, which is reportedly non-toxic. Therefore, people who have been unnecessarily exposed to asbestos may never know that they are suffering from an asbestos-caused illness until it is too late to address with medical treatment.
Medical care for mesothelioma can be simply devastating, for a number of reasons. There are the physical and emotional tolls of cancer treatment and therapy to consider, in addition to the cost of cancer treatment, which can quickly escalate hospital bills by thousands of dollars.
Diagnosis of Mesothelioma
The most common age for people to be diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma is 72, according to Cancer.net. In addition to the potential lack of screening for people who are at risk for developing mesothelioma, the symptoms of mesothelioma and certain types of cancers may present themselves as other conditions.
Mesothelioma occurs in a few different forms, with particular symptoms that can help doctors distinguish the origin of the disease. “Most people with mesothelioma have symptoms for at least a few months” before diagnosis, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS):
- Chest Symptoms: Chest pain, shortness of breath, a chronic cough, difficulty swallowing, a hoarse throat, and facial swelling can all be signs of pleural mesothelioma.
- Abdomen Symptoms: Stomach pains, abdominal swelling, nausea or vomiting, and constipation can be signs of peritoneal mesothelioma, which starts in the lining of the abdomen.
- Heart Symptoms: Chest pains, irregular heartbeat, heart murmurs, and difficulty breathing like shortness of breath can all be indicative of pericardial mesothelioma, which originates in the linings of the heart.
- General Symptoms: Common symptoms like fever, sweating, fatigue, unintended weight loss, blood clots, and lack of appetite can be indicative of more serious issues, like mesothelioma.
The list of symptoms above are not a substitute for medical advice or a diagnosis, but a hint that mesothelioma symptoms may have been present long before you or your loved one was diagnosed with the disease. When you work with a Montana mesothelioma lawyer that person can review your medical records to look for any forewarning symptoms that may have prevailed before your diagnosis. By doing this, you can trace your personal health and exposure history to build a case that holds liable parties accountable.
Legal Counsel for Mesothelioma Exposure
Seeking treatment for mesothelioma will be costly, exhausting, and potentially unpredictable. Typically, the only thing certain about mesothelioma and other types of cancer is the unpredictable nature of the disease. Knowing this, it makes sense to contact a lawyer as soon as possible if you have a certain history of exposure to asbestos, such as from longtime work in construction, mining, or a similar industry.
Dealing with decades-old legal battles is not easy to do alone, which is why you might prefer to work with a lawyer on your case. The lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm know that no two cases are alike and will work to navigate the nuances of your unique case. From filing a claim through civil procedures, to negotiating on your behalf, a Montana mesothelioma lawyer will handle it all. Our lawyers are here to serve your particular needs, which means doing as much as we can to protect and defend your rights based on the facts of the case.
Do not wait to contact a lawyer, as the circumstances of your particular case, concerning things like the statute of limitations, will vary. The lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm work on a contingency-fee-basis, meaning that you will not pay anything unless or until your case is won. Contact our team now to begin discussing the details of your case.
For a free legal consultation, call (800) 794-0444
Simplify the Legal Fight Against Asbestos Exposure
When you are dealing with the difficult diagnosis and treatments for mesothelioma, making a persuasive legal case should be the least of your worries. Focus on your treatment and recovery, while the team at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm simplifies the legal process for you.
We cannot undo the damage done from asbestos exposure, mesothelioma, or other complications, but we can help you claim compensation for your losses in a fair and efficient way. Contact the offices of Pintas & Mullins Law Firm to speak with a member of our team today: (800) 794-0444.
Call or text (800) 794-0444 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form