According to the National Cancer Institute, lung cancer is the second most common cancer in the United States. The types of treatments used for fighting lung cancer depend on the type of cancer as well as the stage of the disease. Treatments for the two types of lung cancer, small cell and non-small cell, can vary.
Common treatments for lung cancers include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, immunotherapy, and targeted therapy. Sometimes treatments can include a combination of several therapies, for example, surgery plus radiation therapy. There are also several prescription medicines that can help lung cancer sufferers.
In addition to these standard therapies, some patients use alternative or complementary treatments. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warn that alternative therapies may not be safe and that there is no evidence that they can help to fight cancer. However, some patients may find alternative and complementary treatments such as acupuncture, aromatherapy, and massages to be helpful in many other ways. Alternative treatments may provide a sense of well-being by having a relaxing effect on cancer sufferers and reducing emotional stress.
Types of Cancers of the Lungs
There are several types of lung and chest cancers that all have similar symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and a general difficulty breathing. Two types of lung cancer develop inside of the lungs, small cell lung cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer.
Mesothelioma is a type of lung cancer that does not develop inside the lungs but rather originates in the linings of the lungs. Mesothelioma of the lung is also called pleural mesothelioma.
The causes of lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma are somewhat different. While environmental and lifestyle factors such as tobacco smoking can contribute to lung cancer, mesothelioma is primarily an asbestos-related disease. However, it is certainly possible to develop lung cancer from asbestos exposure also.
If you are currently receiving or considering types of treatments for lung cancer and you suspect that your lung cancer or pleural mesothelioma may be due to occupational reasons, you could receive compensation for medical expenses and other costs. It can help to consult a lung cancer or asbestos lawyer for further advice.
Occupational Causes of Lung Cancer
While smoking remains a major cause of lung cancer, occupational hazards are also a risk factor for lung cancer. Asbestos exposure can be a work-related cause of mesothelioma and lung cancer. Since asbestos is widely used in the building industry and other industries over many decades, a large number of workers and their families have come into contact with this carcinogenic fiber.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring microscopic fiber that, when inhaled, travels deep into the lungs, causing lasting damage. The risk of getting lung cancer or mesothelioma from asbestos depends on several factors, including the length and severity of exposure and the tobacco smoking history of the affected individual.
Although asbestos is perhaps the most widely known carcinogenic substance playing a role in lung cancers, there are many other substances and chemicals that can cause serious diseases and cancers of the lungs. Carcinogens known to play a role in lung cancer are present in the following work and manufacturing environments:
- Coke production
- Coal gasification
- Rubber production industry
- Painting industry
- Iron and steel founding
- Aluminum production
If you worked in another industry, you may also have come into contact with carcinogenic substances. Chemicals used in production and manufacture today may have carcinogenic properties that are as yet undiscovered.
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Occupational Lung Cancer Sufferers Have Options
If you believe your workplace caused your lung cancer or mesothelioma, there are options for you to get justice and financial relief. Companies have set up so-called asbestos trust funds to compensate their workers for injuries. You may receive an award that could help with the costs of treatments now and in the future.
If you are a family member and your loved one passed away due to mesothelioma or lung cancer caused by their profession, you might be able to file a wrongful death claim and potentially receive compensation for medical bills, funeral costs, loss of companionship, and others.
Likewise, if you came into contact with carcinogenic substances in the workplace and are now suffering from lung cancer, you may also be able to file a personal injury lawsuit and potentially receive awards for any costs and damages you suffered as a result of your occupational lung cancer.
Lung cancer litigation can be complex and may be the last thing on your mind while you are trying to get better and perhaps undergoing cancer treatments. However, a lung cancer lawyer can assist you with all aspects of a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit and fight for your best interests. Contact Pintas & Mullins Law Firm today for a free consultation at (800) 217-6099.
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