Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) qualifies as the most aggressive form of lung cancer. It spreads at a more rapid pace than non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), the alternate form of lung cancer. Small cell lung cancers account for about 15% of all lung cancer cases, and manifest in two forms—small cell carcinoma and combined small cell carcinoma.
Smoking tobacco primarily causes SCLC, but other factors may contribute to it. If you received a diagnosis of any form of lung cancer and do not smoke, consider some of the possible causes.
Keeping a Lookout for the Symptoms of Lung Cancer
Smokers do not account for all people who develop lung cancer. As pollutants increase in the air, you may develop lung cancer regardless of whether you smoke or not. Some signs of lung cancer include:
- Unexplained weight loss.
- A persistent cough.
- Shortness of breath.
- Hoarseness.
- Bone pain.
- Coughing up blood.
- Chest pain.
- Persistent headaches.
These are not the only symptoms of lung cancer. Anyone experiencing these or related symptoms should take them seriously and seek medical attention immediately.
Causes of Lung Cancer in Non-Smokers
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Approximately 15,000 lung cancer patients die each year as a result of breathing asbestos fibers. An additional 15,000 to 22,000 lung cancer patients pass away because they once breathed radon gas in dangerous levels.
Preventing Radon Gas Exposure with Proper Care
Radon gas testing helps prevent radon-induced lung cancer. Individuals or business owners who fail to conduct such testing may ultimately be responsible for the effects of your lung cancer. Some defendants in radon exposure cases may include employers, landlords, and even municipalities who failed to test government-owned buildings for radon.
Radon gas usually occurs in well-sealed structures with poor ventilation. If you have lived, worked, or spent significant amounts of time in a structure fitting this description, your lung cancer may have resulted from radon gas exposure.
Another Silent, Odorless Cause of Cancer
One estimate states that as many as 30 million homes in America have materials that contain asbestos, a dangerous carcinogen linked with potentially fatal health conditions. These conditions include asbestosis, mesothelioma (a form of lung cancer caused by asbestos), and other forms of lung cancer aside from mesothelioma. Certain elements of a home or other structure may contain asbestos, including:
- Insulation, which may rest in walls and attics or around pipes and heat-emitting appliances such as furnaces and stoves
- Certain textured paints
- Certain roofing materials including shingles
- Vinyl flooring
- Heat-resistant fabrics
Improperly used asbestos that tears and releases fibers into the air can cause lung cancer. If you believe that you may have been exposed to unsafe levels of asbestos, you could have a case for compensation from the liable party.
The Benefits of Having a Lawyer in an Asbestos or Radon Exposure Case
A lawyer may shoulder the legal aspects of pursuing compensation while you focus on recovering from your lung cancer. Some ways that a lawyer may help include:
- Initiating legal action so that your case falls within the statutes of limitation
- Collecting all evidence relevant to your case, including any that shows wrongdoing on the part of the defendant
- Consulting with your medical professionals to calculate compensation
- Handling all legal responsibilities
- Protecting your rights throughout the legal process
Each lung cancer negligence claim is different, but some possible awards in your case may cover:
- Medical expenses related to your cancer.
- Lost wages/diminished earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering.
- Any additional awards common to wrongful death claims if they apply in your case.
Your case may entitle you to additional damages as well.
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While small cell lung cancer (SCLC) stands as the most aggressive form of lung cancer, if you believe another party’s negligence exposed you to asbestos or radon, and you now have a lung cancer diagnosis, a lawyer may help you pursue the compensation you deserve.
Our lawyers at Pintas & Mullins Law Firm take on tough cases and aim to protect you from further harm. Our clients pay nothing upfront or out of pocket. Call us today at (800) 217-6099 for a free consultation.
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