What is Asbestos Mesothelioma Cancer?

What is Asbestos Mesothelioma Cancer?

Mesothelioma cancer is considered as being one of the rarest and deadliest forms of cancer in the current century. Also called asbestos lung cancer, Mesothelioma cancer is caused by asbestos fibers which normally enter the pleural cavity thorough the air holes. The name mesothelioma is derived from the fact that this particular form of cancer usually affects the mesothelial cells which form the internal membrane and at the same time help the internal organs fight different germs and forms of bacteria.

According to research, three different types of mesothelioma cancer exist. Differentiating the three is usually not that easy simply because all of them usually display the same features. However, through detailed analysis, you can easily different all of them easily. The three include pericardial mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pleural mesothelioma.Pleural mesothelioma normally affects the lungs and the pleural membrane. Among the three types of mesothelioma cancer, pleural mesothelioma is considered to be the most dangerous.

However, just like all the other two, this pleural mesothelioma is usually curable.Peritoneal mesothelioma usually normally affects the abdominal cavity. The symptoms of this particular type of mesothelioma cancer are not usually easy to detect. In addition, patients suffering from this type of cancer usually end up contacting other dangerous abdominal infections simply because the cancerous cells that they carry usually destroy their immune systems and in the process expose their internal organs.

Pericardial mesothelioma usually affects the regions surrounding the heart. Unlike the other two, the symptoms for this particular type of mesothelioma cancer are usually easy to detect. However, just like the other two, periocardial mesothelioma is usually aggressive and very dangerous.

Warning signs of mesothelioma cancer:

According to research, more than 60% of people suffering from mesothelioma cancer usually experience lower back pain or chest pain. In addition, many of them usually find it difficult to breathe from time to time. With time, many of the patients usually start experiencing high fever, fatigue, muscle weakness and at times persistent coughs. Additional symptoms include muscle weakness, coughing up blood, loss of all the sensory capability, uncontrollable facial and arm swellings and hoarseness.

Mesothelioma treatment options:

Despite the fact that there are many treatment methods available, treating mesothelioma cancer is not usually easy. Some of the treatment methods are usually costly while on the other hand, some are usually time consuming and very risky. Nevertheless, you as a patient can try any of these treatment options; radiation therapy, gene therapy chemo therapy or surgery.

Apart from treating this particular cancerous infection, many patients are usually advised to try controlling it through different palliative procedures. Many of these procedures usually help one overcome the pain caused by the infection and in the process manage to continue living a normal life. Some of the most common palliative procedures include gene therapy, angiogenesis and photodynamic therapy.

Just like other cancerous infections, Mesothelioma usually causes death when not treated at the right time. This being the case, patients are usually advised to seek medical attention before the situation gets out of hand.

Prognosis for Asbestos Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a form of rare cancer that is characterized by a very long latency period. This means that the disease develops over the years; slowly without being detected. This cancer has been linked to the exposure of asbestos. Asbestos was a common raw material used mainly in the construction industry and today, this natural substance is still used in some parts of the world. When one has been diagnosed with the cancer, the health care provider will provide a prognosis as well. In this light, a mesothelioma prognosis is the possible outcome of the condition. Over the years, prognosis of this cancer has been somewhat grim owing to the fact that the disease is only detected when it has advanced.

Mesothelioma prognosis is not always grim and it really depends on the individual patient. Additionally, prognosis will also be determined by a set of factors that will be discussed below. First though, it is good to mention that mesothelioma is a cancer that manifests in the lining or cavity of the chest or abdomen. In rare cases, it can affect the heart cavity as well. As a matter of caution, it is pivotal for people to avoid exposure to asbestos and getting relevant information will help you keep the problem at bay; prevention is always better than cure. Those who are diagnosed with mesothelioma need to know that the following factors will determine the prognosis or outcome of the disease.

Elements that determine prognosis

A mesothelioma prognosis will be determined by the type suffered. This diseased is categorized in 3 main types. Epithelial mesothelioma is one that affects nearly half of all those who suffer. This type records the highest survival rate compared to the other 2 types. Another factor that will influence prognosis is the location in which the cancer affects. As hinted above, it can affect the chest area, abdomen as well as the heart cells. When the disease occurs in the lungs, patients will have a higher survival rate as statistics suggest. It is also good to mention that over 80% of all cases of mesothelioma affect the lungs or chest cavity.

The other element that will determine mesothelioma prognosis is the stage of the disease. The early stages like with all cancers present a better chance for the disease to be treated effectively. However, when the cancer has developed and spread to other organs, it is hard to treat it accordingly. Unfortunately, mesothelioma does not show any signs until it has reached an advanced stage. However, it is important to state that medical experts are working to ensure that early diagnosis of mesothelioma is possible.

Metastasis is another factor that will influence mesothelioma prognosis. Metastasis refers to the spreading of the cancer to other organs. When the disease spreads, the problem is made worse and the prognosis might not be very positive. Other factors that affect the outcome include age, health of patient and their ability to respond to treatment. Doctors will seek to improve the prognosis through various modern treatments among them surgery. All in all, it is important to remain positive even when the prognosis is not so good. Some patients have been observed to survive longer than anticipated owing to their strong will to live and resilience therein. For very advanced mesothelioma, the prognosis may be 2 to 3 years. Treatments available will make the patients comfortable in their fight against the disease.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Legal Information

Asbestos Mesothelioma Legal Information

Mesothelioma is a debilitating disease that shows increasing incidence nowadays. That is why it is necessary that people should know mesothelioma legal information so that they can avoid the things that can cause the disease. Likewise, knowing the disease can help in combating the disease legally. In the same manner, mesothelioma legal information can guide an individual not only in determining the legal actions to do.There are many ways on getting mesothelioma legal information. Consulting a mesothelioma lawyer is an ideal way to obtain legal information. However, not all lawyers can give the pertinent legal information. That is why it is necessary to consult a lawyer who has an extensive knowledge about mesothelioma legal information.

A Good Lawyer for Mesothelioma Cases

On the other hand, you should be smart in choosing a competitive lawyer who can handle mesothelioma cases. In this sense, the best thing to do is to search from various law firms, and check the history of every lawyer that handled such case before. This can save your time and effort in finding mesothelioma legal information.  Similarly, you can also find mesothelioma legal information by scanning in various references in libraries. There are lots of books and other references that cover the subject of asbestos mesothelioma. Nevertheless, make sure to obtain legal information that is updated. In searching for mesothelioma legal information you need to know the updated and existing laws so that you will determine the rights of the victims. Moreover, the mesothelioma legal information also includes other aspects such as the compensation process. By knowing the legal aspects the lawyer can rule out the amount of compensation that a victim deserve. Likewise, victim should keep in mind that it is their right to claim for settlement or compensation as long as it is within the laws governing asbestos mesothelioma. Nevertheless, you should also check for mesothelioma legal information provided by the state you are residing.

Finding Mesothelioma Legal Information

The good thing about knowing the mesothelioma legal information is that you will know the areas covered by the law such as medical criteria, two-disease rules, successor liability, punitive damages, forum shopping, joinders as well as statutes of limitation. Despite of the fact that every state has the same legislation in managing and reducing the asbestos hazards it is necessary that the public should know mesothelioma legal information. The easiest and most convenient way of finding mesothelioma legal information is surfing over the internet. There are wide ranges of information that you can obtain about asbestos mesothelioma. However, you should be meticulous about the information that you will obtain. See to it that it will be useful in case you are planning for any legal actions in the future. You should determine if the legal information gathered is applicable in your situation.

Moreover, you should also determine the mesothelioma legal information that you can actually use. In this way you can focus on the specific information that you can use in filing mesiothelioma case. Whatever your purpose of searching for legal information the bottom line is that it can be used in the future legal actions.

Who is a Mesothelioma Lawyer and Attorney?

Who is a Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawyer and Attorney?

It’s the most shocking thing for most of the people to be diagnosed in cancer and that too for mesothelioma. In these types of cases people go and consult a doctor for treatment. But they can also consult a meothelioma lawyer.

A mesothelioma lawyer helps his clients in getting the compensation deserved by them due to their critical health condition. It is scientifically proven that exposure to asbestos mainly causes this type of cancers. It is suggested after many experiments that workers who have to work day in and out with these types of materials are mainly attacked by mesothelioma. However this deadly disease can also happen to those who live in houses having asbestos as their insulation.

Mesothelioma lawyer helps clients to receive the money which you deserve. They try to earn the compensation on behalf of their clients. The compensation from the people who are responsible directly or indirectly for exposing them to these types of materials like asbestos which gave rise to such deadly disease as mesothelioma. A mesothelioma lawyer will firstly investigate the claim of their clients. He will check whether the person claiming has a strong or weak case in the court of law. He will examine the chance of claim being admitted.

Usually it is seen that people who have been exposed to asbestos without prior notice of the consequences or the workers whose employees didn’t take necessary actions are seen to get the compensation. However cases of different individuals are assessed based on different merits of the cases so it’s better for the clients to contact a mesothelioma lawyer with high experience who can professionally investigate the claim.

After the case is understood by the mesothelioma lawyer and a detailed investigation is done, he will tell the clients whether they have solid legal reasons to be compensated for. He direct his clients as to whom to sue – whether the employer, the asbestos manufacturer or any other person. Moreover usually the mesothelioma lawyers don’t charge anything for the investigation. However it is general practice of every lawyer to collect their fees after they have won the case for their clients.

If the lawyer feels after investigation that the client has a strong case then he will file a suit on the behalf of the clients. He will then take preparation for the trial. Often it is seen that agreement for compensating is done way before the hearing of the court takes place. As the types of reasons for claims vary from case to case, the compensation amount also varies from case to case dramatically. In some cases the party responsible agrees to pay out millions of dollars. They don’t want to sabotage their reputation by going to court for defending them. In some other cases the responsible person may agree to cover the medical expenses required by the victimized person. But there’s no guarantee that hiring of a mesothelioma lawyer will make you earn what you deserve. Even if the lawyer does everything there are chances of losing the case.

Tips to hire a good Mesothelioma Attorney and Lawyer

Tips to hire a good Asbestos Mesothelioma Attorney and Lawyer

Mesothelioma attorney is a confidant that one can relate to when having a mesothelioma related complaint. This individual is not a lawyer, but licensed and qualified to practice law just like mesothelioma lawyers.

The mesothelioma diagnosis news can be shocking and devastating to the family members. Therefore, an individual handling the case should be humane, result oriented, and dedicated mesothioma attorney. The attorney should carry out his or her duty with a lot of sincerity.

Mesothelioma cancer affects the membrane that lines the heart, abdomen, and chest. This type of cancer is cause by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a carcinogen that is used by many factories due to their resistance to chemicals, fire, and heat. These materials do not conduct electricity and comprises of small particles.

When these particles are inhaled, they pose a great health risk to the individuals. The risk is more in individuals who have been exposed to the particles for a long time. Family members of the workers are not exempted, since these particles can be carried home through shoes, clothes or hair.

Most countries have put ban on the use of asbestos due to their high toxicity level. Early diagnosis of the disease is not attainable, since its symptoms become evident at a later stage, normally 20 to 30 years. Upon diagnosis, one can seek the help of mesothelioma attorney to get compensation.

Mesothelioma attorney is specialized in filing the suit. Therefore, one should look for the best mesothelioma attorney ,since the outcome of the lawsuit entirely depends on him or her. The experience and expertise of mesothelioma attorney plays a vital role in ensuring that the plaintiff gets maximum compensation.

One should also ensure that the credentials of the mesothelioma attorney he or she intends to hire are at par before entrusting him or her with the case. Mesothelioma attorney should be in a position to provide information on the number of similar cases he ahs handled before, the compensation rates he or she has obtained, and the timeline that the cases he or she has handled took.

The mesothelioma attorney should also state his or her approach to the case and his or her intentions when a negative verdict is reached at by the court. After obtaining and evaluating these information, one can make informed decision on whether the mesothelioma attorney is the most suitable to handle that case.

A mesothelioma attorney can also provide useful information on treatment options. The best Mesothelioma attorney is one with vast experience in this field thus can assist one to het a medical expert that can help his or her client.

 

One should also discuss with the mesothelioma attorney the amount of money he or she intends to charge as the legal fee. A good mesothelioma attorney should be in position to represent his or her client without any advance payment of the legal fee.

After getting satisfied with the information about the mesothelioma attorney, one should provide useful information to the attorney to help in the lawsuit. With a good mesothelioma attorney one should be guaranteed maximum compensation.

Skills of a Professional Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawyer

Skills of a Professional Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawyer

Finding a capable Mesothelioma lawyer to assist you with legal and medical issues that arise in the aftermath of your diagnosis is very important. Taking chances with life is never suggested when you are exposed to cancer. As soon as initial signs appear, you need to go in for an effective treatment so that the situation won’t turn problematic for you. The actual reason for the occurrence of Mesothelioma in humans is due to the constant exposure to asbestos. People working in such an industry where there are hardly any precautions taken by the management to protect its workers are most vulnerable.

Mesothelioma lawyer basically assists clients in dealing with the situation in an efficient manner. There are scores of people who lose faith in the system once they are deprived of the facilities they are actually entitled to. Going through the legal process in obtaining the claims and settlements too becomes hectic and becomes almost impossible at times. The situation will turn worse when the sufferers are not aware of their rights related to Mesothelioma. Hence, proper education about the disease is required in the first place. The exact symptoms and situations leading to the cause of the disease have to be identified.

Financial settlements could be realized perfectly when you approach an experienced Mesothelioma lawyer. People who come under the effects of this disease face several problems with respect to society and family. Providing the required care along with the respect they deserve will help them in dealing with the problems in their personal life in an effective manner. An experienced Mesothelioma law firm is known to provide all the assistance that people require right from the process of consultation to claims. It would be of great help to all those who cannot cope up with the challenges they face after encountering this deadly disease.

Approaching a Mesothelioma lawyer who is aware of the implications of asbestos and how detrimental it is to humans is required before anything else. You can seek future course of actions in an effective manner by choosing legal assistance so that you can represent your priorities as desired. Once the desired knowledge has been obtained, you can then go ahead and file a Mesothelioma law suit as part of realizing settlements. Frequent representations by the law firms will prove to be fruitful for you because of which you are able to secure your finances.

Meanwhile, there are certain firms in association with a seasoned Mesothelioma lawyer to discuss the aftereffects of the disease along with the care to be taken. In fact, in-depth research studies are still underway in order to provide the required legal assistance to those medical specialists as well. Mesothelioma websites are now known to contain valuable legal information that helps people in taking all the precautions and legal advices to avoid medical complications. All these features are known to offer great respite to all those who deal with it. In fact, there are lawyers from some firms that approach clients at their door steps.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Attorneys Law Firm

Asbestos Mesothelioma Attorneys and Lawyers Law Firm

A mesothelioma attorney law firm does help the affected people in many ways. Lots of mesothelioma patients in this world have not understood the necessity of the mesothelioma attorneys law firm. A person who is diagnosed with this deadly disease must contact a mesothelioma attorneys lawyer to cope with the disease. Many patients have not understood the necessity of the mesothelioma lawyers‘ role and hence they suffer till the end. It is common for the person to think seriously about the cost of the treatment for this threatening disease with a lot of worries. The simple solution would be discussing this with Mesothelioma attorneys law firm . The desired result is obtained when a person who has this disease contact the Mesothelioma attorneys law firm immediately. If it is done, then the person might get the correct solution for his problem and can cope with the future without any deviations. By this half of the person’s problem is solved quickly. It is meaningless to think haphazardly about the future of the person without discussing anything about his or her mesothelioma disease with the Mesothelioma attorneys law firm. Hence , getting an appointment with the Mesothelioma attorneys law firm would be a smart and effective step.

There are many reasons present for a person contacting Mesothelioma attorneys law firm quickly . By this contact , one can understand the period of time to file an asbestos claim. The mesothelioma lawyer is able to recover some damages caused by asbestos . He can fight for the person and as a result the affected person may get a good compensation for the treatment. This compensation can do good for both person’s family and treatment. The mesothelioma attorneys law firm can alone recover and restore the life of the mesothelioma patients. Excellent medical expenses for his treatment is obtained because of the mesothelioma attorneys law firm. Hence, it is becoming very important for the patients to find the best mesothelioma attorneys law firm . This task is very simple if the patient seeks the expert opinion to cope with the Mesothelioma attorneys law firm. The excellent mesothelioma attorneys law firm can alone satisfy the needs of the mesothelioma patients in this world.

The lawyers of mesothelioma attorneys law firm are capable of dealing the mesothelioma cases effectively without any margin of error. However, care must be taken while the person selects the lawyer by getting answers to the questions related to mesothelioma queries. The mesothelioma attorneys law firm can give the correct answers asked by the patient and thus the reality of the disease is known. The queries regarding mesothelioma compensation, medical treatment expenses, the expertise of the lawyers, and years of experience in handling this case are asked to the mesothelioma attorneys law firm . The mesothelioma attorneys law firm lawyers deal the case specially and the difference is seen with other lawyers. The mesothelioma attorneys law firm deals the mesothelioma cases very specifically and hence they are aware of all . So, it is quite easy for the mesothelioma attorneys law firm to finish the problem amicably. Earlier, many cases are successfully finished by this mesothelioma attorneys law firm . Hence, the success ratio is huge with this mesothelioma attorneys law firm. The mesothelioma attorneys law firm does work perfectly to the expectations of the patients to yield positive results. Hence, the mesothelioma attorneys law firm stands out among top notch law firms thanks to the prompt action .

Asbestos Mesothelioma Risk Factors

Asbestos Mesothelioma Risk Factors

There are several risk factors that increase the likelihood that a person will develop mesothelioma. The primary risk factor is asbestos exposure. Exposure to this very harmful substance can significantly enhance the chances of contracting the disease. Smoking does not have a direct causal relationship with mesothelioma but is a significant compounding factor and increases the chances of developing the disease. Other less common secondary factors include exposure to radiation, zeolite, simian virus 40 (SV40) and erionite. We discuss each of these risk factors in more detail below. Please click on the links to learn more about each mesothelioma risk factor.

Exposure to Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos is the leading risk factor associated with mesothelioma. Asbestos is an insulating material comprised of magnesium-silicate mineral fibers. It was favored by builders and contractors for many years for its low heat conductivity and resistance to melting and burning. Since researchers have identified more and more links between mesothelioma and exposure to asbestos, the material is now less widely used. Prior to this discovery, however, millions of Americans have experienced serious exposure to this harmful substance.

Smoking and Mesothelioma

Smoking alone is not linked to mesothelioma, but smokers who are exposed to asbestos have a much higher chance of developing asbestos lung cancer (as much as fifty to ninety percent higher) and as much as double the risk of developing mesothelioma.

Less Common Mesothelioma Risk Factors

Radiation

Thorium dioxide (Thorotrast), a substance used in x-ray tests in the past has reported links to pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma. The use of Thorotrast has been discontinued for many years due to this discovery.

Zeolite

Some mesothelioma cases in the Anatoli region within Turkey have been linked to Zeolite, a silica based mineral with chemical properties similar to asbestos found in the soil there.

Simian Virus 40 (SV40)

Some scientists have found the simian virus 40 (SV30) in mesothelioma cells from humans and have been able to create mesothelioma in animals with the virus. The relationship between this virus and mesothelioma is still unclear, however, and further research is being conducted to gain clarity on this potential link.

Erionite Exposure

Erionite is a naturally occurring mineral that possesses properties that are very similar to those of asbestos. There have been several documented cases of mesothelioma in indivuduals living near large erionite deposits.

Carbon Nanotubes

Researchers continue to evaluate nanotube exposure as a possible risk factor for mesothelioma even though scientists have not expressed immediate concern.

Types of Asbestos Mesothelioma

Types of Mesothelioma by Site

Pleural Mesothelioma

Malignant pleural mesothelioma often originates within the chest cavity and can, at times, involve the lung. This particular form of mesothelioma can metastasize to numerous organs in the body - even the brain - and tends to do so more frequently than not.

Pleural mesothelioma is not always easily detectable. Frequently, in the early stages of the disease, such as stage 1 mesothelioma, symptoms may be mild. Patients usually report pain in one area of the chest that never seems to go away, weight loss and fever. Occasionally, other symptoms are more severe and include problems with breathing due to fluid build up in the chest. A CT Scan of the chest area has proven to be the best test for identifying how far along the disease has progressed.

Frequently serum markers are used to diagnose of various forms of cancer. Mesothelioma cannot be diagnosed using this method as no serum markers currently exist. If high levels of hyaluronic acid are present it may be possible to distinguish mesothelioma types from other types of cancer or to determine the effectiveness of a treatment protocol.

The mesothelioma survival rate for patients diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma typically is not high as patients often do not live beyond seventeen months from the onset of symptoms. Only 8% of those with a mesothelioma diagnosis will live three to five years from the onset of mesothelioma symptoms.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma originates in the abdomen and will frequently spread to other organs in area including the liver, spleen or bowel. Severe abdominal pain is the most common complaint that patients present to mesothelioma doctors. There may also be a discomfort level with fluid buildup in the abdomen as well. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include difficult bowel movements, nausea and vomiting, fever and swollen feet.

The survival rate is even worse for those diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma with patients typically surviving only ten months from the time that they first started experiencing the symptoms noted above.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common form of mesothelioma. Pericardial esothelioma, as the name suggests, involves the heart. This rare type of mesothelioma cancer invades the pericardium, the sac that surrounds the heart. As the cancer progresses, the heart is not able to deliver oxygen as efficiently to the body causing further decline in health at an increasingly rapid rate. The symptoms most commonly associated with pericardial mesothelioma mimic those of a heart attack: nausea, pain in the chest and shortness of breath.

Types of Mesothelioma Tumors

Malignant Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is an uncommon form of cancer and of all asbestos related diseases, the most serious. The symptoms associated with the disease make it difficult for doctors to diagnose. Often, by the time that a proper diagnosis is made, the disease has progressed to a point where patients do not respond well to treatment therapy. Malignant mesothelioma is caused almost exclusively by the inhalation of airborne asbestos particles. Another unique factor associated with the disease is that there can be a long latency period between the time of asbestos exposure and the actual manifestation of the disease in the form of malignant mesothelioma.

Benign Mesothelioma

Benign mesothelioma, or non-malignant mesothelioma, is much easier to treat than the malignant form of the cancer and can be treated successfully in many cases.

Mesothelioma Cell Types

Epithelial Mesothelioma

Epithelial Mesothelioma is the most common cell type and accounts for approximately 50-75% percent of all diagnosed cases each year. These cells are uniform in shape, with an elongated pattern that makes them easily distinguishable when viewed under high magnification. These types ofcancercells are adenocarcinomas, malignancies which are more commonly associated with pure lung cancers as opposed to cancers of the mesothelium.

Sarcomatoid Mesothelioma

Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is a less common cell type, accounting for between 7 and 20% of mesothelioma cases each year. These cells grow forth out of supportive structures, such as muscles and bones.

Biphasic Mesothelioma

Biphasic mesotheliomas are those with a mix of epithelial and sarcomatoid cell types. Mesothelioma treatment options do not vary greatly for different cell types, but often sarcomatoid mesotheliomas are more difficult to treat as a result of the surrounding affected tissues that they spread from.

Papillary Mesothelioma

Papillary mesothelioma, also known as well-differentiated mesothelioma, is a form of the asbestos cancer that typically affects women. In many cases this cell type is benign and not likely to spread to other organs in the body.

Causes of Asbestos Mesothelioma

Causes of Asbestos Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a cancer that occurs in the mesothelium, a thin membrane encompassing the body’s internal organs and cavities. Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure.

Asbestos fibers that are inhaled through the mouth and nose may eventually become embedded in the lining of the lungs, causing harmful inflammation of the pleura and resulting in mesothelioma or asbestosis (scar tissue formation in the lungs). It has also been found that swallowing asbestos fibers could contribute to a form of the malignancy originating in the abdomen known as peritoneal mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma generally results from occupational asbestos exposure but there are instances of environmental exposure that can also cause the disease. Oftentimes a family member can be affected indirectly by second hand exposure from an asbestos worker’s soiled work clothes.

Asbestos was an effective insulation material. It was used liberally in commercial and industrial products in the United States until being regulated in a joint effort between the Consumer Product Safety Commission and the Environmental Protection Agency in 1989. Occupational exposure was common among workers who encountered these products in many industries including shipbuilding, power plants, and other industrial settings.

Asbestos insulation workers appear to have the highest rate of asbestos related disease. One study reports that almost six percent of asbestos workers fall victim to mesothelioma or experience respiratory symptoms. Asbestos insulation workers are over 300 times more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than those with no exposure history.

How does exposure to asbestos cause mesothelioma?

Asbestos fibers are microscopic, though they are also quite durable. For this reason, asbestos was used in a number of different industrial compounds to enhance strength and resistance to temperature extremes- two properties at which the mineral is highly adept. Asbestos exposure most often occurred among individuals who worked extensively with asbestos or asbestos-containing materials. Friable asbestos (meaning loose or airborne fibers) is easily inhaled- often without the exposed person realizing.

When inhaled, asbestos lodges easily in the outer lung tissue and within the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a thin membrane of cells which produces a lubricating fluid on the surface of the organs. This lubricant allows the lung and other internal structures to expand, contract, and move freely without friction in the body cavity. There is a great deal of latency associated with mesothelioma between exposure to asbestos and the onset of symptoms. Over time (often 40 or 50 years) asbestos irritates this tissue, causing inflammation and malignant scar tissue plaques on the surface of the mesothelium. These plaques are the foundation of the mesothelioma tumor.

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common variety of the disease and forms on the pleural membrane, which surrounds the lung and chest cavity. Peritoneal mesothelioma is less common and forms on the surface of the peritoneum, a thin membrane surrounding the abdominal cavity. Pericardial mesothelioma is the least common variety of the disease and forms in the cardiac cavity that envelops the heart, a mesothelial membrane known as the pericardium.

Inhaled asbestos fibers are known to be the cause of pleural mesothelioma, whereas ingested asbestos fibers are the cause of peritoneal mesothelioma. While the exact causal nature between asbestos and pericardial mesothelioma is not known, physicians and cancer researchers surmise asbestos fibers in the blood stream lodge in the outer layers of the heart’s ventricles and lodge in the pericardium. Once asbestos fibers reach the surface of the peritoneum or pericardium, the inflammation process is essentially the same as it is on the surface of the pleura.

Primary workplace exposure to the mineral was common in naval shipyards, power plants, railroad infrastructure, and other industrial jobsites. However, asbestos-related mesotheliomas have also been diagnosed in spouses or children of those exposed to asbestos. Workers often brought home dangerous asbestos fibers on their clothing, hair, or person. Those who came into contact with these fibers on the person or their clothing have developed mesothelioma as a result.

Other Contributing Factors

Mesothelioma is also causally associated with a few other factors, but many of these are attributed to the development of mesothelioma in conjunction with exposure to asbestos.

1. Smoking

Those who smoke are at a higher risk of mesothelioma, though smoking is more commonly associated with traditional lung carcinomas. Smoking tends to enhance risk even further in those who were also exposed to asbestos.

2. Radiation Exposure

While extremely rare, some mesothelioma patients attribute their diagnosis to exposure to radiation rather than exposure to asbestos. Radiation tends to transform and mutate cell growth patterns and is more commonly associated with brain and blood cancers.

3. Carbon Nanotubes

Research is extremely preliminary in this study, but some laboratory studies indicate a molecular similarity between asbestos mineral fibers and carbon nanotubes. Tests indicate a pronounced risk of mesothelioma in some laboratory animals implanted with carbon nanotubes.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Diagnostic Tests: Imaging Scans and Biopsies

Asbestos Mesothelioma Diagnostic Tests: Imaging Scans and Biopsies

If you believe that you may have mesothelioma, a qualified medical professional will use a variety of diagnostic tests and methods to confirm the presence of the disease.

The first step that mesothelioma doctors will take in evaluating an asbestos related disease is to obtain a full medical history to determine the level and severity of mesothelioma risk factors and presenting mesothelioma symptoms. This interview will consider among other things, where asbestos exposure occurred, the length of exposure and the amount of asbestos that you were exposed to.

In addition, he/she will perform a medical exam to look for signs and symptoms of various types of mesothelioma. For example, if pleural mesothelioma is suspected the doctor will look for fluid in the chest, peritoneal mesothelioma often shows fluid in the abdomen and pericardial mesothelioma presents with fluid in the area of the heart.

Diagnostic Tests

Imaging Scans

Diagnostic image tests like x-rays, CT scans and MRI's are useful in obtaining more information about the cancer including how far it is progressed. Each method provides another piece of information for your doctor to assist him/her in making an accurate diagnosis. Chest x-rays are used to identify abnormalities in the lungs including unusual thickening, mineral deposits and fluid in the chest area. CT scans are capable of providing images of the same location from many different angles. MRI technology uses magnetic fields rather than x-ray to provide additional views.

PET Scan - Positron Emission Tomography, more commonly referred to as a PET scan, is a nuclear medicine diagnostic technique. Nuclear medicine involves introducing a small amount of radioactive material into the body (in this case, intravenously) to help doctors determine if the body is functioning properly. PET scans in mesothelioma patients are often used in conjunction with CT scans. PET scans can be particularly helpful in determining if the cancer has metastasized beyond its point of origin.

CT Scan - A Computer Tomography scan or CT scan, as it is more often referred to, is a commonly utilized method for locating the tumor in the body and determining the extent of the disease. Doctors will often prescribe a CT scan if mesothelioma is suspected because it offers more detail than a traditional X-ray. The CT scan provides cross-sectional imaging of the internal body structures that can be reconstructed on a computer monitor.

MRI - A magnetic resonance image, more commonly referred to as an MRI, is a noninvasive method used for diagnosing mesothelioma within the body. The MRI uses a magnetic field and radio frequency pulses, transmitting them to a computer. Traditional MRI equipment consists of a cylinder within which the patient lies. The MRI poses no risk for patients, though some find the enclosed spaces uncomfortable. These patients may request a mild sedative to allow them to remain still and calm during the procedure.

X-Ray - An x-ray is a commonly utilized mechanism not only for cancer diagnosis but for many different respiratory abnormalities, including bronchitis and pneumonia. Nevertheless, given that the symptoms of these respiratory disorders closely mimic those of malignant mesothelioma, often a chest x-ray is the first imaging technique used in a mesothelioma diagnosis. X-rays are particularly adept at identifying the proliferation of fluid within the pleural cavity, a symptom of mesothelioma known as a pleural effusion. If effusion is detected in the pleural cavity, doctors will often prescribe a surgical biopsy to test the fluid for malignant mesothelioma cells.

Biopsies

A biopsy is an important diagnostic procedure recommended by doctors for patients presenting with signs and symptoms of mesothelioma that have a history of asbestos exposure. Fine needle aspiration is the less invasive type of biopsy that can be performed. More invasive surgical biopsies are recommended if results from a needle biopsy are inconclusive or if a needle biopsy is not recommended for medical reasons.

Needle Biopsy - The needle biopsy is considered the less invasive biopsy procedure. A pleural biopsy is generally recommended for patients in whom mesothelioma is suspected. Fluid is extracted through a syringe and then tested for the presence of malignant cells. Upon determining the presence of malignant cells, cancer specialists will determine the cellular classification of the malignancy and if mesothelioma is, in fact, present. The extraction of fluid from the pleural cavity, chest wall, or abdominal is also used as a palliative procedure to alleviate patient symptoms.

Surgical Biopsy - A surgical biopsy is a far more extensive procedure than needle biopsy. Nevertheless, these procedures are sometimes necessary to make a conclusive diagnosis of mesothelioma. Surgical biopsy can be particularly useful once a diagnosis has already been established. For instance, a mediastinoscopy is a procedure, which assists physicians in staging the cancer. Once cancer is effectively staged, treatment recommendations can be made based on the best possible scenario for each individual patient’s circumstances.

11 Symptoms of Asbestos Mesothelioma

Symptoms of Asbestos Mesothelioma: Warning Signs of Asbestos Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is difficult to diagnose because the early signs and symptoms of the disease can be subtle or mistaken. Symptoms are all too frequently ignored or dismissed by people who are inclined to attribute them to common every day ailments. Sometimes patients live with symptoms for up to 6 months before being diagnosed but usually the symptoms are present for two to three months prior to a mesothelioma diagnosis.

About 60% of patients diagnosed with pleural mesothelioma experience lower back pain or side chest pain and there are frequent reports of shortness of breath. Lower numbers of people may experience difficulty swallowing, or have a persistent cough, fever, weight loss or fatigue. Additional symptoms that some patients experience are muscle weakness, loss of sensory capability, coughing up blood, facial and arm swelling and hoarseness.

Peritoneal mesothelioma originates in the abdomen and as a result, symptoms often include abdominal pain, weight loss, nausea, and vomiting. In the event that there is a hernia present, fluid buildup may occur in the abdomen as well.

Asbestos exposure is considered the primary risk factor for the development of the cancer. Anyone previously exposed to asbestos displaying any of these symptoms should seek medical attention from a doctor who specializes in the treatment and diagnosis of mesothelioma and thoracic oncology.

How long does it take for mesothelioma symptoms to appear?

One of the most unique facts about mesothelioma is that the disease is characterized by a long latency period that is very often associated with the disease. The latency period is the amount of time that elapses from the first point of asbestos exposure to the point where symptoms begin to appear so that a diagnosis can be made. In some mesothelioma cases the latency period is reported to be 10 years but the average latency for the majority of cases is between 35 and 40 years. As a result, the cancer often progresses to later stages before a diagnosis is made. When diagnosed in the later stages, mesothelioma treatment options become more limited and are less effective.

Symptoms of Asbestos Mesothelioma

Provided below is a list of symptoms that mesothelioma patients may experience. Please click on a symptom to learn more about it.

1. Anemia

Mesothelioma patients diagnosed with anemia have a lower than normal red blood cell count or hemoglobin in the blood which can cause fatigue and if left untreated, result in a loss of bone marrow.

2. Blood Clotting Disorder

A symptom experienced by many mesothelioma patients that can lead to anemia and other serious complications if not given appropriate medical attention.

3. Bowel Obstruction

A very painful symptom that can sometimes develop in peritoneal mesothelioma patients due to fluid buildup in the abdomen.

4. Chest Pain

Often experienced in pleural mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma patients, chest pain can develop as the tumor grows and places strain on the lungs and heart.

5. Dysphagia

Pleural mesothelioma patients often develop difficulty swallowing (esophageal dyphagia) as the mesothelium continues to grow on the lungs.

6. Fluid Effusion

An effusion can occur in mesothelioma patients when there is fluid buildup affecting either the pleura or pericardium.

7. Hemoptysis

Hemoptysis, or the symptom of coughing up blood, can have its origins in the lungs, bronchi or trachea of mesothelioma patients.

8. Nausea

Nausea is experienced in a number of cancer patients as it is often a side effect of chemotherapy treatment. Those diagnosed with peritoneal mesothelioma may also experience nausea as a result of increasing abdominal pressure.

9. Peritoneal Effusion

Peritoneal mesothelioma patients may experience a buildup of fluid in the peritoneum as the tumor continues to grow. This can result in an effusion which can inhibit the function of abdominal organs.

10. Pleural Effusion

In pleural mesothelioma patients, pleural effusion may develop when there is a large amount of fluid present in the pleura, the lining between the lungs and chest cavity.

11. Weight Loss

Weight loss can occur in mesothelioma patients as a side effect from cancer treatment or as the result of other symptoms that may also be present such as difficulty swallowing or nausea.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuits and Compensation

Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuits and Compensation

Mesothelioma is an occupational disease caused by exposure to asbestos. Most of the individuals diagnosed with this rare form of cancer are those who worked with the toxic mineral at a variety of occupations including shipbuilding, construction work, welding, insulating, auto repair, oil refinery and chemical plant work, plumbing, and many more. They may have also been exposed at home through do-it-yourself projects. For decades before the U.S. halted all new uses of asbestos, scientists, doctors, and others knew it was toxic, yet it stayed on the market and companies continued to use it.

Though it's been more than 30 years since the government issued guidelines and warnings about asbestos use, the dangerous mineral can still be found in a high percentage of the homes and commercial buildings that were constructed prior to 1980, so exposure is still a real possibility. Furthermore, it sometimes takes up to 50 years after exposure for victims to be diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer because of the disease's long latency period. Hence, those exposed in the 60s and 70s can still be diagnosed with the disease in the near future.

It has been proven that, in many cases, owners or operators of plants, factories, or other businesses that made use of asbestos knew that the mineral was hazardous to the health of their employees yet no moves were taken to remove asbestos or to replace it with a safer material. Furthermore, those who manufactured asbestos-containing materials were also familiar with its hazardous qualities yet continued to make and market them. As a result, many individuals were wrongfully exposed to this toxic material and many were sickened as well.

During the last few decades, countless individuals who were injured by asbestos and developed mesothelioma have filed lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers and/or the owners of the companies responsible for their exposure in order to seek compensation. Treatment for this aggressive form of cancer is expensive and results in extensive medical bills and loss of income. Furthermore, victims of the disease have a right to be compensated for pain and suffering. In addition, they may wish to seek funds that will insure that their families will be secure after they pass away.

Asbestos Cancer and the Law

From the 1930s through the 1970s, tens of thousands of individuals, including union workers, were exposed to asbestos, mostly in the workplace. Those with jobs such as shipbuilder, construction worker, contractor, insulator, welder, oil refinery worker, chemical plant employee, railroad engineer, auto mechanic, and a host of other occupations were regularly exposed to asbestos on the job. As a result, many hardworking individuals developed serious asbestos diseases, including mesothelioma, a tough-to-fight cancer that continues to claim lives.

Those who worked with asbestos were rarely informed that the material was toxic and that their health was being compromised, despite the fact that executives at companies nationwide knew that hazardous asbestos was making their employees sick. Hence, no protection was provided and workers regularly breathed in dangerous asbestos fibers. Years later, many of these individuals would discover they had asbestosis - or worse - mesothelioma cancer.

The willing exposure of people to known toxins such as asbestos is, in the end, a matter of gross negligence. Employers who allowed exposure to this hazardous material were literally stealing the good health of their workers, resulting in the loss of quality of life for many individuals who would eventually be affected by mesothelioma. Furthermore, spouses, children, and other family members would also face the risk of acquiring mesothelioma through secondhand exposure. Those who grew up near asbestos plants or mines may have also suffered from exposure, not recognizing until years later that their close relationship with toxic asbestos would make them gravely ill.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuit and Litigation Process

Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawsuit and Litigation Process

Even though United States health and safety regulators have set guidelines aimed at protecting workers from the dangers of asbestos, up to 3,000 people a year in this country alone are diagnosed with mesothelioma; worldwide, the numbers are even greater. For those workers and their families, a diagnosis is devastating. It means countless medical treatments, mounting medical bills and additional stress and worry about the future.

For those who have been exposed to asbestos on any level, there are legal remedies that can help victims alleviate some of the financial pressures that come with such an overwhelming diagnosis. Many have already turned to the court system to win financial compensation for their sicknesses.

The Asbestos Mesothelioma Litigation Process

A diagnosis of mesothelioma isn't something that comes quickly or easily. Because the disease symptoms start slowly and develop over time, it is often 20 to 50 years after an initial asbestos exposure that a patient is diagnosed with this devastating disease. Many people who develop mesothelioma do so after working in an industry that had utilized asbestos, including the military and construction work. Even family members of those workers are known to come in contact with asbestos through "household exposure" — that is, when the worker unwittingly brings the dangerous asbestos fibers into the home on work clothes and shoes.

For mesothelioma victims and their families, the litigation process can be difficult. Many states have time limits, called statutes of limitation, for asbestos victims to file lawsuits, so it is important to act soon after a diagnosis. Once you have found a qualified, experienced and knowledgeable attorney, you will be guided through the legal process. That includes discovery, depositions, possible settlement talks, a trial, a verdict and a possible appeal. However, because of the huge number of asbestos-related lawsuits, many never go to trial. They typically quickly reach a settlement.

The first step in any claim will be determining where the asbestos exposure happened and the best route to a legal remedy with the at-fault company or companies. Once you file a formal written complaint in court, your lawsuit begins. The complaint will detail your claims and helps outline your case. After the complaint has been filed, the company or companies that have been sued, called the defendants, have a set period of time to respond. During the next phase, called discovery, both sides work to gather information about your claim. Both sides will be asked to answer sets of written questions, produce evidence and documents and participate in depositions. Often this could take weeks to months. Many times the claimant is asked to participate in a videotaped deposition. You will be asked several questions under oath and it will be videotaped for future viewing. Your attorney will be by your side to help you prepare for the questions and responses and to advise and assist you.

Sometimes before a trial starts, and sometimes in the midst of a trial, the defendant's attorneys may ask to resolve the case for a set sum, called a settlement. Your skilled mesothelioma attorney will negotiate the best deal for you. If no settlement can be reached, the case will go to trial. A trial could take several weeks, but the claimant is often not required to attend. Upon winning the case, the claimant starts receiving payments within several weeks. To date, nearly one million mesothelioma litigation cases have been filed, resulting in millions of dollars in compensation.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Trust Funds

Asbestos Mesothelioma Trust Funds

In the wake of an increasing number of once-solvent companies filing for bankruptcy following asbestos litigation, dozens of trust funds have been established as a way to give restitution to mesothelioma victims. With more than $30 billion in trusts, these accounts have become a major source of compensation for injured mesothelioma victims nationwide.

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that forms in the chest area and is predominantly caused by exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral that has fibers that settle in the lungs and eventually leads to cancer. Although asbestos has been used for centuries because of its heat-, fire- and chemical-resistant properties, it was not widely used in the United States until the 1930s. Since then, it's been used in a multitude of workplaces, including shipyards, construction sites, mines and mills. It is also been used in a large amount of products, including plumbing and electrical insulation, automobile brakes and floor and ceiling tiles. Use of this toxic substance skyrocketed during World War II and subsequent military actions. Even though most companies knew early on about asbestos dangers, many did not put measures in place to protect the workers or their families. As a result, hundreds of thousands of people have been injured or died.

Mesothelioma is known to have a 20 to 50 year latency period, so by the 1960s thousands of people were being diagnosed with the disease and courthouses were flooded with claims. In the 1970s, the United States Congress began trying to enact Fairness in Asbestos Injury Resolution bills that would create federally mandated trust funds. The most recent revival of this bill, in 2006, would have allowed for a $140 billion trust fund financed by insurance companies and defendant companies. It would have severely limited a claimants right to pursue financial compensation and would have cleared all asbestos manufacturers from wrongdoing. It also would put an end to individual asbestos litigation. Lawmakers summarily shot it down. No bill was ever created.

Mesothelioma Bankruptcies and Bankruptcy Trusts

Today, 56 bankruptcy trusts have emerged from at-fault companies that have filed for bankruptcy. According to the RAND Corporation, a nonprofit global think thank, the largest 26 trusts have paid out at least $10.9 billion on 2.4 million claims so far. These trust have billions set aside for future claims.

The rules that govern these trusts vary among the companies, which makes the legal process very complex. Further complicating the situation is that payout amounts vary greatly from state to state because of differing statutory laws and court rules. A recent study by RAND showed that bankruptcy trusts are playing a larger role in asbestos-injury compensation, but there is no standard system to coordinate payments.

Because of the complexities that surround these trusts, it is important to have an experienced asbestos attorney by your side. A specialized mesothelioma attorney can maneuver through the complex world of court litigation and bankruptcy trusts to ensure you and your family get just compensation. This compensation should not only pay for current medical bills and treatments, but also must cover household expenses and lost wages. An appropriate compensation will also help fund alternative medical treatments that you might not be otherwise able to afford.

Finding the best Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawyers and Attorneys

Finding the best Asbestos Mesothelioma Lawyers and Attorneys

It's easy to find a mesothelioma attorney. What's not easy is finding one who has the expertise, knowhow, skill and backing to win your case. When it comes to hiring a mesothelioma attorney, you don't want an average attorney; you need an attorney who is skilled in the complexities of asbestos-related law, is current on the latest legal proceedings and can maneuver around a courtroom with skill and finesse. You need an attorney will take your special circumstances under consideration when filing a claim and will treat you like a person, not a court case.

A diagnosis of mesothelioma can be devastating and overwhelming for an entire family. Caused by asbestos exposure, mesothelioma is known to take 20 to 50 years to manifest. And by the time it's diagnosed, the treatment options are often very limited. This leaves families devastated, not just from the emotional despair a terminal illness brings but also the huge financial burden.

It is important to remember that many states have statutes of limitation for filing lawsuits, which only allow patients and their families a set period of time to file a claim following a diagnosis. In some states, that timeframe is as short as one year. That's why it is important to act as soon as possible after a diagnosis.

In searching for your best mesothelioma lawyer, there are certain things to keep in mind:

1. Ask your potential attorney a lot of questions. Don't be afraid to inquire about the attorney's college background and work experience. Find out exactly how many cases the attorney has handled. Make sure your attorney is skilled in the area of asbestos law and the intricacies around it.

2. Determine the outcome of the attorney's cases. It's not good enough just to know your attorney has mesothelioma court experience. You need to be sure those cases were successful. Determine how many cases have gone to trial and find out about out-of-court settlements. Find out how many of the cases are under appeal.

3. Ask about the attorney's availability and openness. It is important to work with an attorney who will have time for you. Find out if they will answer your calls directly or have a colleague answer them.

4. Ensure your case will be take on a contingency basis. Because these case can be expensive to investigate and organization, ensure that you won't have any out-of-pocket expenses. Most qualified attorneys will take your case on a contingency basis, only taking payment if you get a financial settlement.

5. Discuss the possibility of filing a private lawsuit over a class action. Often, private lawsuits have better financial outcomes, but class actions may also have benefits. Talk to the attorney about the pros and cons of both.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Claims

Asbestos Mesothelioma Claims

For decades, asbestos was sought after for its near-magical heat-, chemical- and fire-resistant properties. It was utilized in countless industries, from construction to the military. But when asbestos fibers settle in the lungs, they cause a slow and steady inflammation that can lead numerous deadly diseases including mesothelioma. Today, mesothelioma victims by the thousands are filing claims against the employers who carelessly and crassly put them at risk. Today, many of those victims have received millions of dollars from their claims.

For some mesothelioma victims, filing a claim may be a frightening and overwhelming process; for other victims, it may be liberating and therapeutic. For all of the victims, filing a claim can help pay for huge medical bills and mounting household expenses. Mesothelioma claims can help with lost wages, lost future earnings and overall financial security.

Even though asbestos and asbestos abatement are highly regulated, many workplaces simply ignore federal regulations regarding working with this toxic mineral. Some workers aren't provided with the proper protective gear, including facemasks, to protect from the dangers. Others aren't given the full information about the scope of their work. Others still may suspect possible problems but do what they're told without question because they depend on their jobs to pay the bills. Already, asbestos has claimed more than 200,000 lives in the U.S. and millions more worldwide. Every year, about 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are diagnosed in the United States alone.

Filing a Claim

There are several claim options for injured workers to pursue when seeking financial assistance for injuries. Some do not provide adequate financial help however:

Workers' compensation — In some states, mesothelioma claims are considered an occupation illness and automatically qualify for workers' compensation. However, some state workers' comp systems require the victims to give up the right to sue the employer. And workers' comp often does not offer ample financial gains, leaving the injured worker and family struggling to make ends meet.

Veterans benefits — For the mesothelioma victims who served in the military, there are some compensatory claims options. However, the paperwork to file a claim is known to be complicated and confusing.

Bankruptcy trust — Because so many at-fault companies have since filed for bankruptcy protection and gone out of business after being found negligent, courts required trusts be established for injured workers. Filing a claim against the trust requires documented evidence of an asbestos-related injury. The trustees who manage the asbestos trust and your attorney negotiate an equitable settlement based on the extent of injuries and laws guiding the trust.

Litigation — For many mesothelioma victims, filing a court claim is the most successful route to sufficient financial compensation. Depending on your case and your attorney's expert advice, you may sue the injurious company for personal injury or wrongful death.

Financial Assistance for Mesothelioma Victims

 

No matter the route asbestos victims and their attorneys choose to take, it is important to remember that acting quickly is the key to a successful outcome. Because many states limit the amount of time to file a claim, sometimes just 12 months after the initial mesothelioma diagnosis, it is important to speak to a mesothelioma attorney today.

Asbestos Mesothelioma Settlements

Asbestos Mesothelioma Settlements

With nearly one million mesothelioma victims filing court complaints since the early 1930s, many mesothelioma lawsuits don't wind up in the courtroom; they end up in settlement talks.

Mesothelioma, a disease that is almost exclusively the result of asbestos exposure, is known to strike hard after a 20- to 50-year latency period. Most victims unwitting come in contact with asbestos in the workplace and accidentally bring the dangerous fibers home to contaminate family members as well. In many cases, the employers didn't do enough to protect workers and their families from the deadly asbestos fibers.

With an increasing number of mesothelioma victims coming forward each year, many at-fault companies realize that it's easier and more cost effective to settle a case rather than go through tedious and costly court proceedings. More and more lawsuit settlement talks actually begin shortly after an initial court complaint is filed.

How Much are Settlements Worth?

For most mesothelioma victims, the key question in filing a court complaint is the settlement amount. After all, this sum is expected to help pay for mounting medical bills, household expenses, lost wages and is also aimed at helping family members in the future. This is money that every mesothelioma victim deserves after being forced into a deadly medical situation as a result of corporate greed.

The amount of the settlements varies greatly from patient to patient, from several hundred dollars to several million. Often, settlement terms are kept confidential, but there have been some high-award cases in recent years:

A $43 million settlement was awarded to more than a thousand asbestos victims in a Montana town after it was found that dust from a mine was killing the residents.

A $1.7 million settlement was awarded to a former Buffalo, New York police officer who was exposed to asbestos in city buildings.

A $7.5 million settlement was awarded to a former Marine machinist. He was exposed to asbestos while working in a variety of naval shipyards and submarines.

While it's difficult to predict how each individual case will turn out, settlements have become the norm in mesothelioma cases. Because of this, defendant companies often try to pay a lower sum than is appropriate. That's when it's most important to have an expert attorney on your side who is skilled in asbestos litigation.

The Settlement Process

The asbestos settlement process begins like any other asbestos court case. A skilled mesothelioma attorney will prepare court documents, file them in the appropriate courthouses and prepare the case for a judge and jury. This initial preparation includes taking depositions, researching the defendant company's history and determining the best path for a jury trial.

Sometimes, defendant companies will want to immediately settle, especially if the company has been the focus of other public trials that ended with large jury awards. Often, the initial settlement offer is not adequate and much less than the victim deserves. This is just one example of how an experienced mesothelioma attorney will be helpful. Only an attorney who is skilled in the intricacies of mesothelioma litigation will know what kind of settlement is appropriate.

If no settlement offer is reached immediately, it could easily happen just minutes before a trial is ready to start or even during a trial. Attorneys for both sides will sit down and negotiate a fair financial resolution based on your injuries and the amount of pain and suffering inflicted on you and your family.

Diagnosis of Asbestos Mesothelioma

How is asbestos mesothelioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete physical examination may be performed, including x-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI may also be useful.

A biopsy confirms a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist.

Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.

How to choose a good Asbestos Mesothelioma Attorney or Lawyer?

How to choose a good Asbestos Mesothelioma Attorney or Lawyer?

When you have been given the news about this terrible disease, you may not feel that you have the time to deal with the legal questions - Should I talk to a lawyer? Should I file a claim? However, you should not wait too long to learn about your legal rights for at least three reasons:

Statutes of Limitations - There are statute of limitations which means you only have a limited time to file your case after diagnosis. The statute of limitations time period is set by individual states and varies. The clock usually starts ticking on the day of diagnosis.

Financial Pressure - A mesothelioma diagnosis can bring financial stress, less income, more expenses, and treatments that are not covered by insurance. Knowing that money may be on the way from filing a claim can bring financial relief.

Lawyers Can be Excellent Resources - The more experienced mesothelioma lawyers and law firms can often be excellent sources of information about various doctors and treatment options available for this disease.

But, picking a lawyer is serious business and you should not use TV ads as the reason to hire an attorney. Actual credentials are what counts. For example, what type of accomplishments has the law firm achieved? How committed are they to mesothelioma/asbestos cases? Are these cases a substantial part of their practice or just a small piece? How many other cases like yours have they handled?

Also, make sure you understand the fees being charges. Contingency is the term that means that the lawyer gets paid only after they collect money for you. The amount of the contingency fee that your lawyer can charge varies and is usually between 33% and 40%. It is important to discuss fees openly, ask what services they cover, how they are calculated, and whether there will be any extra charges.

Finally, for something as important as a mesothelioma lawsuit, your attorney should not only be experienced, skilled, and dedicated, but also a trusted partner who understands that your health needs always take precedence. The best lawyers are those that are not only expert at what they do, but are also caring, supportive, thoughtful and compassionate.