Mesothelioma Attorneys
Fighting for Victims of Asbestos Exposure Nationwide
Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer which affects approximately 3,000 people a year. Due to the nature of its rare occurrence, malignant mesothelioma is often referred to as an orphan disease. Mesothelioma is linked directly to asbestos exposure and is caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. These carcinogenic fibers can be found in thousands of asbestos containing materials used in plants, refineries, shipyards, and mills.
Asbestos fibers are in products used by the following:
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For experienced legal counsel, call (877) 958-7920. We are award-winning mesothelioma lawyers with a proven record of success handling mesothelioma cases.
Mesothelioma in the Workplace
Asbestos occurs naturally and is a mineral highly valued for its commercial purposes. Commonly used in construction prior to 1975, these fibers can cause malignant mesothelioma if inhaled. The rapid development of mesothelioma occurs the longer one is exposed and the volume of fibers one inhales. The latency period of mesothelioma is so great that a person may not show symptoms for 25 to 40 years. The age range of typical person diagnosed with mesothelioma is between 50 and 70 years.
The mineral’s ability to resist heat and fire is what has made asbestos so valuable in many manufacturing and fabrication products. These fine fibers are flexible and have often be woven into flame-resistant clothing that is tough to tear and is valued for its insulation properties. Families of electricians, shipyard workers, and other industrial workers have often been exposed to these fibers.
Mesothelioma is often misdiagnosed due to its rarity and nonspecific symptoms. If you have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace, please see your physician immediately to discuss your health risks.
Types of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma comes in three forms: pleural mesothelioma (chest cavity), peritoneal mesothelioma (abdomen), and pericardial (heart lining).
Pleural Mesothelioma
As the most common form affecting three-fourths of those diagnosed, pleural mesothelioma attacks the lungs and respiratory areas of the body. The only known cause of this malignant mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:
- A unrelenting cough with blood (hemoptysis)
- Chest pains
- Swollen face
- Shortness of breath
- Fever
- Weight loss.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common form of mesothelioma and comprises only 20 to 30% of all cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue that lines the abdominal wall, which is composed of mesothelial cells. This lining protects the contents of the abdomen and lubricates the organs to move and function properly.
Symptoms associated with peritoneal mesothelioma may include:
- Abdominal pains
- Abdominal swelling
- Bowel obstruction
- Fever
- Weight loss
- Tissue build-up in the abdomen
Like pleural mesothelioma, occupational and environmental asbestos exposure is responsible for this fatal disease.
Pericardial Mesothelioma
As an extremely rare form of malignant mesothelioma cancer, pericardial mesothelioma represents approximately 5% of all cases. Pericardial tumors are known to spread over the surface of the heart, superior vena cava, the root of the aorta, and the pulmonary trunk. The spread of the tumors can only be diagnosed through surgical exploration. Few successful treatment strategies exist, with little to no benefit from radiation and chemotherapy.
Reach Out to Learn About Legal Recourse - Call Shrader & Associates L.L.P. Today!
Shrader & Associates L.L.P. consists of a team of carefully selected mesothelioma attorneys handpicked by our founder. You do have options if you have been diagnosed with this disease, as almost all cases involve asbestos exposure—meaning someone was clearly negligent and should be held responsible.
We offer free case evaluations. Call (877) 958-7920 to meet with us and discuss your situation.
