Asbestos Exposure and Malignant Mesothelioma

Asbestos exposure is the number one cause of malignant mesothelioma. Many industrial, construction and naturally accruing sites can expose you to asbestos fibers. Serpentine fibers and amphiboles are the 2 primary types of asbestos used. Chrysotile is a form of serpentine fiber and the most frequently used. These fibers are curly and flexible. Amphibole fibers, differ, they are mostly straight and thin and normally are made of one of five types: crocidolite, amosite, anthrophylite, tremolite, and actinolyte. The crocidolite type of Amphiboles is believed to be the leading factor in cancer caused by asbestos. Serpentine fibers are deadly also, but, they are linked to mesothelioma.

Asbestos Exposure By Inhalation

Some research shows that inhaled asbestos fibers cause a physical irritation resulting in cancer rather than the cancer being caused by a reaction that is more chemical in nature. As fibers are breathed in through the mouth and nose they are strained from the body by adhering to mucus in the nose, throat and airways and then get expelled by coughing or swallowing. The Amphibole fibers do not pass as easily and it is therefore believed that they can get stuck the lining of the lungs and chest and result in mesothelioma cancer.

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma can be caused by the breathing in of asbestos fibers. Actually, most exposed to asbestos are seven times more likely to get malignant mesothelioma then the general public. People who are exposed to high levels of asbestos exposure often suffer from malignant mesothelioma than any other illness. It is also believed that the action of coughing up and swallowing asbestos could contribute to a form of mesothelioma originating in the abdomen called peritoneal mesothelioma. Mesothelioma has been seen in other organs of the body as well like the larynx, pancreas and colon, but those occurrances are very rare when compared to lung cancer incidents.

Length Of Time Increases Risk

The chance of getting malignant mesothelioma is in directly related to the amount of time and length of asbestos exposure that a person sustains. Those who are exposed to high levels of asbestos at an early age, for long a number of years have a larger risk of contracting malignant mesothelioma than those who have short, low level exposure. Another important consideration is that Mesothelioma can take a long time to appear. Many times, twenty to forty years can go by from the time of exposure to diagnosis. Genetic factors can also play a role which explains why not everyone exposed to asbestos develops an asbestos related disease. If have any of these risk factors you should have frequent checkups with your doctor so that you can be diagnosed as soon as possible. Early detection can increase favorable results to treatment.

Veterans and Mesothelioma Exposure

Mesothelioma is one of the leading causes of cancer among veterans in the United States. The disease is most prevalent in veterans of the era of the 40s through to the 60s when the use of asbestos was wide spread in the construction of military equipment. Mesothelioma is a cancer that forms as a direct result of continuous exposure to asbestos particles. Upon inhalation, the asbestos particles find their way into the deep annals of the lungs where they become logged amongst the tissue and cells. Here they remain ant interact with antibodies released by the body as a direct result of the irritation caused by the asbestos particles and transform the surrounding cells into cancerous cells. This process continues until the entire lining of the lung becomes damaged. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is not easily diagnosed resulting in many veterans being unaware of their condition until the disease becomes irreversible.

Between the 1930 through to the 1970s, the use of asbestos was prevalent in many military constructions. As a result, military veterans from all sections of the armed forces who served in World War 2, Korean War and Vietnam now exhibit after effects of asbestos exposure. The main exposure came from equipment such ships, submarines and airplane in which asbestos was used for insulation purposes.

Navy

US Naval veterans have one of the highest rates of mesothelioma among US veterans. Most of these individuals served in shipyards where they were involved in the construction of ships and submarines for use in the fleet. These vessels were laced with asbestos from end to end due its excellent heat resistance qualities. The asbestos was placed in walls, floors, valve gaskets and around boilers. However, due the lack of knowledge available at the time about the dangers of asbestos exposure, these individuals worked fearlessly to get their orders out.

Army

Although members of the army did not use utilize ships or submarines during their operations, this did not save them from asbestos exposure. Asbestos was a cheap material that could be used in many applications. As a result, asbestos was used to construct sleeping barracks in many locations overseas. It provided good insulation in cold countries, however as the wars progressed, many of these building aged or were damaged by enemy fire causing the asbestos particles to be released into the environment. These side effects still exist for those individuals who still live in the war-ravished areas who still use some of these buildings for living purposes.

Marines

It is a tradition for marines to work closely with the navy as most of their deployment depends on the assistance of the navy. As a result, these marines become exposed to the same contaminated conditions on asbestos-laced vessels. In addition, many of the buildings used the marines while on land were also built from asbestos products.

Air Force

Asbestos is a relatively light material that provides good insulation that was perfect at the time for use in airplane construction. As a result of being enclosed in these small cockpits for extended periods during wars and training, world war 2, Korean and Vietnam veteran pilots have gained the unfortunate post of being second only to navy veterans with the highest rate of mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure

Mesothelioma Lawyers in US

Mesothelioma is known as a silent killer or old people’s disease as a result of its incubation period. In its early stages, it presents similar symptoms to those of regular respiratory ailments and it can be treated long term as the wrong disease. As a result, when patients are diagnosed with mesothelioma, are in their older years and the disease is at an advanced stage.

History of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma has become a widespread problem in the United States. The recognition of Mesothelioma began in the early 1900s when what was thought of as a miracle creation, asbestos, was introduced to the US. Asbestos was hailed as the answer to the need for a lightweight, inexpensive and readily available material that could be easily fitted to just about anything that needed insulation.

However, shortly after its discovery, its creators found out the dangers associated with the inhalation of its particles could lead to disease. Unfortunately, this discovery was made at the time of the two World Wars during which asbestos was heavily used in the manufacturing of ships, planes, submarines and portable housing for soldiers. As a result, the information regarding the dangers was suppressed. By the time the general populous became aware of the effects of asbestos, asbestos use was widespread and it had been installed in almost every major building in the US. This put many people in danger of developing Mesothelioma without even knowing they had been exposed.

Mesothelioma Claims in the US

To date, records show that at least 600,000 Mesothelioma claims have been made within the United States alone since the passing of the 1970 Clean Air Act. These claims were made with the support of qualified lawyers who were capable of building credible cases to prove that the mesothelioma developed in patients was due to their exposure to asbestos. These lawyers had to don their battle boots to face many the high profile legal teams set up by asbestos manufacturers to defend their cause. As a result, patients had to choose diligently which lawyers to represent them, as these lawyers should possess certain characteristics to obtain favorable results.

Choosing a Mesothelioma Lawyer

According to US law, patients who have developed mesothelioma because of asbestos exposure are entitled to compensation from the asbestos industry. However, they must be able to prove their claim and for this they need the services of a sound mesothelioma lawyer who is knowledgeable about the industry, the disease and its effects. These mesothelioma lawyers will be able to get you the highest possible compensation available. However when choosing a mesothelioma lawyer, one should:

• Make a thorough check on the attorney’s credentials. Do not follow television infomercials and billboards that exaggerate the accomplishments of mesothelioma lawyers and their claim sizes. Investigate their real success rate in winning claims and their client base.
• Do not become overwhelmed by big names as association with big name mesothelioma lawyers comes with a big price tag. This will make a significant cut in the amount of claim money you actually receive.
• Ensure a fee is agreed on before signing any contracts. Remember it is the lawyer who knows the law and may make things seem rosier than it actually is. Get everything in black and white.
• Ask the lawyer to explain the legalities of the case, potential claim size and your chances of winning the claim.

Rise in Asbestos Related Litigation – Who is Responsible?

Since 1994, the judicial system has seen a significant increase in the number of civil lawsuit cases involving mesothelioma. These cases involving disease of mesothelioma fall under the category of asbestos litigation and entails injuries incurred from the exposure to asbestos.

One of the first success stories for environmental protectionist was the fight against asbestos inhalation in 1970. The pressure applied by these activist lead to the Clean Air Act of 1970 as a direct result of manufacturers unwillingness to provide protection for their customers and employees exposed to asbestos although they were fully aware of its side effects. This act has made these manufactures liable to pay compensation to individuals who have developed asbestos related health problems.

Asbestos Litigation

The effects of asbestos inhalation takes a long time to appear at which time the damage is already done and is irreversible. Although the Clean Air act was passed way back in 1970, the effects of the disease is just being felt. As a result, there has been a sharp increase in asbestos related claims. Proving your case is sometimes difficult as these manufactures have well-oiled legal teams to protect them from these mesothelioma lawsuits based on their projections for peaks in lawsuits. Most individuals have to combine their efforts in the form of past employee and community groups where they can pool their financial resources to solicit the services of lawyers who can counter these high profile company lawyers.

Asbestos Litigation Statistics

Since the passing of the 1970 Clean Air act, asbestos litigation has undergone many changes. Estimates show that over the years, over 100 million Americans have been exposed to asbestos in one form or another. The case brought against asbestos producers was one brought against eleven manufacturers in 1966 by employees exposed to asbestos while on the job. Since 2002, more than 720,000 individuals have filed asbestos related claims against over 8400 entities at a cost of over $70 billion.

This in itself has created new problems for asbestos related disease sufferers as many of these companies immediately file for bankruptcy once they have been made liable for asbestos related compensation. As a result, much asbestos litigation has now been transferred to the bankruptcy court.

Proposed Asbestos Litigation Reform

Because of the many cases brought against the original manufacturers of asbestos, many of these companies have now ceased their operation. This leaves current asbestos exposure victim with a dilemma of who to hold responsible for their exposure. As a result, there is now a new proposal to hold peripheral companies who have relationships with these asbestos manufactures to assume some responsibility for continued expose to asbestos.

This is supported by the view that the worst is yet to come relating to the after effects of asbestos exposure. Many individuals are not aware of their condition until some 25 to 30 years after exposure.

However, this proposal has been facing stiff resistance from companies and the government alike. Many of these manufactures have connections in congress that protect their interest. As a result, the attempt to introduce to congress the Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution Act of 2005 that would have created a $140 billion fund for asbestos exposure victims has been declared dead as since then there has not been a credible replacement.

Mesothelium and Mesothelioma – Some Interesting Facts

Anyone who has mesothelioma or knows someone who has mesothelioma knows the pain and suffering one has to endure from this deadly disease. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which is almost always caused by exposure to asbestos. Even though this disease is quite rare, it is very serious and in most cases has a lethal outcome. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles, or they have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways.

The term mesothelioma comes from mesothelium, which is a protection covering which shield and coats most of the internal organs of the body such as the heart and lung.

Types of Mesothelium

There are two types of mesothelium: visceral mesothelium and parietal mesothelium.

Visceral Mesothelium: Visceral mesothelium is the mesothelial tissue that closely surrounds the organ in the abdominal cavity.

Parietal Mesothlium: The parietal mesothelium is the membrane that surrounds the lungs and the walls of the chest cavity.

What Is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer which malignant cells are found in the lining of the chest or Abdomen. This deadly disease can cause abnormal growth and division of the mesothelium cells by invading and damaging the adjusting tissue and organs. The cancer cell can also spread from their original location to other parts of the body. A combination of smoking with asbestos exposure significantly increases a persons’ risk of developing mesothelioma. However mesothelioma has also been reported in some people who have not been exposed to asbestos.

Who Is At Risk For Developing Mesothelioma?

Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles, or they have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways. The heavier the exposure to asbestos the higher your chances are of developing mesothelioma, plus the length of exposure time also increases your risk. However research show that some individual with only a brief amount of exposure have also developed mesothelioma; Likewise not everyone who is heavily exposed to asbestos developed mesothelioma. Smoking combined with asbestos exposure can increase your risk of developing cancer of the air passage in the lung.

There have also been reports of family members and those who come in contact with asbestos workers are also at risk for developing mesothelioma or other asbestos related disease. Family members can reduce their chances of exposure to asbestos fibers if asbestos workers shower and change before leaving the workplace.

What Are Some Of The Signs And Symptoms Of Mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Some of the signs and symptoms include: weight loss, shortness of breath, fatigue, acute pain in the abdominal region and chest area, abdominal swelling, anemia, just to name a few.

Is Mesothelioma A Death Sentence?

About twenty years ago the answer would be yes, but this is no longer the case today. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma it is critical that you seek immediate medical treatment.

What Are Some Of The Treatments Used For Mesothelioma?

It depends on the stage of the disease, the location of the cancer and the patient’s overall health and age. Some of the mesothelioma treatments include: conventional therapies, surgeries, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, and or a combination of treatment and medications.

Oklahoma Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you live in Oklahoma and was exposed to asbestos, you should immediately seek treatment. Once you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it is important that you consult an Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer. Mesothelioma victims and their families may be entitled to monetary compensation.

How to get Compensation for Mesothelioma in Oklahoma?

If you have been exposed to asbestos in your working environment due to neglect by your employer, and you have been diagnosed by a doctor, seek immediate counsel from a mesothelioma lawyer’s. Oklahoma Mesothelioma lawyers will review your medical records and build a legal case based on your medical records and documentation of medical professionals. An Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer will be able to tell you everything you need to know about your legal rights, and how you can file for a mesothelioma claim and receive monetary compensation. Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyers will seek the justice you deserve, so give them a call today.

What are my Chances of Winning a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in Oklahoma?

For cases that have been ruled a certain way creates precedent for similar cases to be judged the same way. Thus, if a case was denied due to untimely filing, other similar claims are most likely not to be awarded as well. But, you shouldn’t let that stop you from proceeding with your mesothelioma lawsuit, because each case is unique.

Also, the Oklahoma courts follow a system of 50 percent modified comparative negligence, which means, a plaintiff can only collect damages if their fault in causing their injury is judged to be 49 percent or less. This is why it is so important to seek the help of a qualified Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer. They are experts in this field and have the knowledge and know how to make your case unique from the rest. An Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer will fight for you, and get you the compensation you deserve.

Do I need a Lawyer to represent me?

By hiring an Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer, you will be able to see if you are entitled to any monetary compensation. A mesothelioma lawyer will also increase your chances of winning, and help you get the maximum compensation for your pain and suffering.

What kind of Lawyer should represent my Case?

If you wish to seek compensation for your diagnosis of mesothelioma, then you should choose a lawyer who handles mesothelioma cases, and who have represented clients who have suffered adverse health effects from exposure to asbestos. Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyers know the ins and outs of handling asbestos related cases. They are experts in this field; they handle lawsuits that only deal with asbestos exposure.

Is there a Statue of Limitation to file a claim?

The statue of limitation varies from state to state, so it is imperative that you seek legal action as soon as you have been diagnosed by a doctor. The law imposed on statue of limitation to file a claim may have a limited amount of time in which a lawsuit can be filed. It is important that you consult an Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible.

Finding a Mesothelioma Lawyer

Many mesothelioma lawyers have their own web sites, so start by doing a search on the interned. Just send them an email describing your case. You can also visit websites that offer the services of Texas mesothelioma lawyers. These online services usually provide information about mesothelioma and your legal rights. You can also find mesothelioma law firms in the state of Oklahoma, or ask your doctor for a referral to a qualified mesothelioma lawyer. Your Oklahoma mesothelioma lawyer will advice you of your legal rights and can get you the full compensation you deserve.