Mesothelioma Information – Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is mesothelioma?                                                            

One of the most frequently asked questions upon diagnosis, malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that occurs in several parts of the body after long-term exposure to asbestos, and in some instances, short exposure. The most typical type of mesothelioma is lung-related cancer. However, mesothelioma can affect several parts of the body, including the heart, lungs, abdomen, and more.

In most cases, people affected by mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos  while on the job and/or via products that contain asbestos-containing products. Companies who supplied asbestos and asbestos-containing products are usually liable for damages if no warnings were given regarding their products. As a result, several asbestos trust funds have been set up to compensate people who are suffering from mesothelioma due to the negligence of others. Over $30 billion has been set aside in trust funds. If you have mesothelioma, contact us today and let us help you win the compensation you deserve.

If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, asbestos-related lung cancer, or asbestosis, you may be entitled to significant compensation. Trust funds with more than $30 billion are available right now those who have been diagnosed with an asbestos disease. Fill out our form to receive our free Financial Compensation Packet. Our packet is loaded with information on leading mesothelioma attorneys in your area, how to file a claim for asbestos trust funds, how to get paid in 90 days, and more.

 Where did the term “mesothelioma” come from?

The mesothelium is a membrane in the body that helps to protect your system’s membranes. The mesothelium contains one layer that protects the body’s organs, such as the heart and the lungs. Another layer protects the areas surrounding the body’s organs.

Depending on its location in the body, the mesothelium has different names associated with it. For example. the mesothelium that protects the lungs and the area around the lungs is called the pleura, while the mesothelium that protects the abdominal areas is called the peritoneum. Mesothelioma is a term derived from the action that occurs when the mesothelium breaks apart and damages tissues and organs. Cancerous cells usually form afterwards. The pleura and the peritoneum are the most common areas in which mesothelioma begins.

What is the cause of mesothelioma?

The only cause of mesothelioma cancer is the prolonged exposure to asbestos. In some rare instances, victims may get mesothelioma after being exposed for only a short period. The majority of mesothelioma victims get the disease by inhaling or ingesting asbestos fibers at the workplace.

Who are mesothelioma victims?

Mesothelioma victims range from oil workers, factory workers, teachers, military personnel, mechanics, ship workers, construction crews, and more. Anyone who was exposed to asbestos on a daily basis is capable of getting the disease. Males usually get mesothelioma more than females. This is most likely because the jobs that previously used asbestos were worked more by men than women.

Can family and friends get mesothelioma from second-hand exposure?

Although it’s rare, there have been some reported cases of mesothelioma from second-hand exposure. For example, a spouse washing the clothes of someone who worked around asbestos for prolonged periods can add the risks. Typically, though, most people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma were exposed first-hand while working around asbestos for extended time periods.

Can mesothelioma be cured?

At this time, there is no cure for mesothelioma. However, there are a variety of treatment plans available, such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, and alternative treatments that help to kill cancerous cells and put the disease into remission.

Can I still survive if I have mesothelioma?

Although there is no cure for the disease, treatments have proven to be extremely beneficial in many instances, so there is a good chance that victims can prolong their lives while managing the pain and symptoms. Although most victims don’t experience the first symptoms of mesothelioma until decades after exposure to asbestos, the sooner you can get a diagnosis and get treatment better. Additionally, the key is finding the right treatment options for you, along with diet, exercise, meditation, yoga, and/or counseling.

Is treatment for mesothelioma expensive?

Mesothelioma treatment can get expensive. Whether your treatment involves surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or combinations of all three, the prices for treatment need to be factored in. Planning for expenses beforehand and educating yourself on the costs may help, but there are also charities, government-assistance programs, insurance, and other forms of financial assistance that you may qualify for.

Are there any new treatments being studied that increase mesothelioma survival chances?

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), clinical trials are currently being held in order to help figure out new treatments for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related illnesses. If physicians and scientists are able to determine effective treatments during clinical trials, they may become available to the public.

What is a mesothelioma clinical trial?

A clinical trial is a research study in which people volunteer in order to help scientists and physicians determine for effective treatments for diseases. Mesothelioma clinical trials were created in order to help find new ways to treat the cancer, find and diagnose new patients, determine better pain management, and more.

Mesothelioma clinical trials are set up for all stages of the disease, even those in the beginning stages. However, participants must pass the eligibility requirements of each trial. For more information, contact the Cancer Information Service (CIS) at 1-800-4-CANCER.

I got mesothelioma after working in a factory that contained asbestos for years. Can I sue?

Yes, victims can typically sue. Keep in mind, however, that you must have developed the disease after being exposed at work or via a product that contained asbestos, and you also must prove this. Almost every mesothelioma victim developed the disease after prolonged exposure to asbestos in the workplace, while others developed it from using products that contained asbestos.

Even after asbestos was proven to be harmful, some businesses continued to use the mineral, risking the health and lives of the workers. You should not have to pay for something that was out of your control, which is one of the primary reasons that asbestos trusts funds were created.Our experienced mesothelioma lawyers will be able to assist you and fight to get you the compensation that you rightfully deserve.

Are there attorneys that deal specifically with mesothelioma cases and other asbestos-related issues?

Yes; in fact it’s highly recommended that you choose an attorney who specializes in mesothelioma cases. Mesothelioma attorneys have specialized training, experience, and knowledge of asbestos-related diseases and issues, including how to uncover the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma attorneys also understand the disease and its complications in-depth and will almost always provide you with a better shot in successfully winning your case.

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