Asbestos Lawsuits - Asbestos Resource Center

ASBESTOS CANCER (MESOTHELIOMA) & ASBESTOSIS

2008-07-27T04:30:00.000-07:00

Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a non-cancerous, chronic lung illness caused by exposure to asbestos.

Significant exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, mesothelioma and non-malignant lung and pleural disorders.

Risk depends on duration, frequency, concentration, & type of asbestos fibres.

Diseases from asbestos exposure take a long time to develop. Most cases of asbestosis occur in asbestos workers 15 or more years after initial exposure to asbestos.

Smoking greatly increases the likelihood of lung cancer in workers exposed to asbestos (although smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma).

Mesothelioma (asbestos cancer)

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer which may affect the lining of the lungs (pleura) and the abdominal cavity (peritoneum).

Most mesotheliomas are caused by exposure to asbestos.

Most cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed 30 years or more after the first exposure to asbestos.

Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women.

Risk increases with age.

Symptoms & Signs

Shortness of breath (this is the primary symptom)

A persistent and productive cough

Chest tightness

Chest pain

Loss of appetite/weight loss

A crackling sound in the lungs while inhaling.

Diagnosis

History of asbestos exposure.

Chest X-rays are the most common method of detecting asbestos-related disorders.

Other tests:

Physical Examination
Pulmonary Function Tests
Biiopsy/Bronchoscopy
CT scan

Treatment

Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.

Getting Help

Only a doctor can make the diagnosis of mesothelioma. It is important to see a doctor if you have been exposed to asbestos and have any symptoms.

http://www.medic8.com

Asbestos - The Silent Killer (Asbestos Resource Center )

2008-01-27T09:00:00.000-08:00

Asbestos Resource Center

Asbestos is the single biggest work place killer today. People who have worked with the material are at serious risk from developing lung cancer, asbestosis and mesothelioma, fatal respiratory illnesses that debilitate their victims. Evidence of asbestos’ deadly effect on those who breathe its fibres is likely to multiply in the decades to come.

Asbestos was once heralded as the greatest building material available to those in the construction industries. Its high tensile strength, durability and flexibility, as well as heat insulation and fire retardant properties meant that it could save lives, make buildings strong and make industries rich. It was first used by the Greeks some 2000 years ago. They were aware of the health hazards it posed but believed that its magical ability to withstand fire far outweighed this danger.

The dangers to health were all but ‘forgotten’ until at the turn of the twentieth century when medical researchers noticed a large number of deaths and lung problems occurring in asbestos mining towns. In 1917 and 1918, several United States studies discovered that asbestos workers were dying unnaturally young.

Asbestosis was first diagnosed in a 33 year old woman in 1924, this lead to studies being carried out on asbestos workers in the UK. Examinations on the workers showed that thirty percent had asbestos-related lung disease. UK laws were introduced in 1931 to increase ventilation and to make asbestosis an identifiable work related illness.

Despite the established link between asbestos and lung diseases the industry continued to grow well into the last century. At the peak of its usage asbestos was produced in 24 countries worldwide; it was also manufactured in over 100. World production climaxed at over 5 million tonnes. The building, shipping, insulation and demolition companies whose workers came into contact with asbestos were often aware that their staff were at risk. They did not take sufficient steps to protect their workforce from personal injury.

Sadly the effects of asbestos take many years to manifest themselves. People who worked in the construction industries some 20 to 40 years ago may still be awaiting their fate. Asbestos causes several diseases, two of which occur only in those who have had contact with asbestos, asbestosis and mesothelioma. Lung cancer and emphysema are more commonly associated with smoking but frequently occur in non smokers with a history of asbestos contact.

It is thought that the worst is yet to come. The peak of asbestos usage was in the 60’s and 70’s so many people may develop lung diseases in the near future.

Due to the latency of asbestos diseases it is thought that we will be seeing many more incidences of mesothelioma in the next 25 years. Hugh Robertson, head of health and safety at the British TUC says: "A realistic estimate is that within the EU alone 500,000 will die in the next 35 years, half from mesothelioma and half from lung cancer. In Japan, an estimated 100,000 will die. If you add the Australian, Canadian and US figures then even a million is an under estimation – and that is only for the developed countries.”

People affected by asbestos are entitled to compensation from the companies who knowingly exposed them many years ago.

People affected by asbestos related illness should speak to a personal injury solicitor who has experience in asbestos cases.

For free legal advice visit www.youclaim.co.uk to learn more about asbestos and to make a claim, or alternatively you can call us on 0800 10 757 95.

YouClaims’ solicitors have many years experience of handling asbestos related claims. They help people rebuild their future following exposure to the deadly effects of asbestos.

Editorial notes: YouClaim provides full accident litigation compensation services. Helps people to claim compensation for all types of injury from whiplash to head injuries.

By Sophie Evans

Asbestos Resource Center

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

2008-01-15T21:24:00.000-08:00

Asbestos Resource Center

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that stems from long-term and high-level exposure to asbestos dust and fibers that have become airborne. Asbestos was widely used in many countries, by many industries, and in many applications until the 1980s, when the dangers of exposure to this substance became widely known. It is now known that exposure to this substance can lead to various health problems, including respiratory problems, scarring of the lungs, and form of cancer known as mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma has a very long latency period and can lie dormant for decades from the time of exposure. As there are three variations of this cancer, each of which attacks a different area of the body, the related symptoms can vary. However, those who have worked with asbestos in the past are advised to familiarize themselves with symptoms for all variations of this cancer and to seek medical assistance should any of these symptoms manifest.

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of this disease and affects the lining around the lungs. Symptoms associated with this form of cancer include persistent coughing, difficulty swallowing, facial swelling, weight loss, fever, rasping, coughing up blood, and severe shortness of breath even while resting. The second most common form of the cancer, peritoneal mesothelioma, includes symptoms such as abdominal pains and weakness, weight loss, nausea, loss off appetite, abdominal swelling, and bowel obstruction. Pericardial mesothelioma, which is the rarest form of the cancer, includes symptoms such as persistent coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, and palpitations.

It is important to remember that the symptoms of all variations of mesothelioma can be very non-specific in nature, which increases the risk of a misdiagnosis. It is important to make your doctor aware that you have worked with asbestos in the past so that if you do experience any of these symptoms, a speedy and accurate diagnosis can be made.

Asbestos Resource Center

Who Is At Risk for Mesothelioma?

2008-01-11T03:07:00.000-08:00

Asbestos Lawsuits - Asbestos Resource Center

The only known cause of mesothelioma is previous exposure to asbestos fibers. Often times workers are not told they are working around asbestos, and even single exposures to very low doses of fibers can produce serious long-term consequences.

Asbestos diseases are said to follow the trail of exposure. That means that wherever people have received asbestos exposure, regardless of their trade, age, sex or race, they are at risk of cancer and other diseases.

Almost anyone who has inhaled asbestos dust is at risk. Even a worker's families and friends can be at risk, because asbestos can often be carried on clothing.

Exposure to asbestos dust can occur at major construction job sites, in shipyards, in industry, and during construction or renovation of commercial buildings. See the list at right for certain occupations that are known to be those where risk of exposure to asbestos is great, and the numbers of people in such occupations contracting asbestos disease are high.

Asbestos Lawsuits - Asbestos Resource Center

Asbestos Lawsuits - 3 Things You Should Know

2007-12-17T08:16:00.000-08:00

By Eric Head

Asbestos related illnesses, most commonly mesothelioma cancer, are illnesses that result from exposure to asbestos fibers or dust. The problem with these illnesses is that the symptoms don’t always become apparent until years after the initial exposure (sometimes up to 20 years later).

Asbestos lawsuits result out of the fact that many of the victims were exposed to the harmful asbestos fibers during their residency in apartments, employment in a job that put them in direct contact, or a multitude of other situations where a person (the defendant) was responsible for exposing the victim (the plaintiff) to the cancer causing asbestos.

If you were diagnosed with asbestos illnesses or mesothelioma, it is important to get an attorney right away. Here is some legal advice for those seeking legal action:

Take Action Now:
Once you are diagnosed, don’t hesitate for a second. If you wait, you could surpass the statute of limitations and not be able to file an asbestos lawsuit. Find a lawyer who specializes in asbestos related illnesses, such as mesothelioma. Do this immediately, as the time limit varies for each state.

You Only Pay If You Win:
When you file an asbestos lawsuit, the majority of lawyers will not charge you unless you win the case. This is a major advantage to asbestos lawsuits. You have nothing to lose in taking the defendant to court to collect compensation for your loss of wages due to being out of work. Or for your medical bills that have accrued from seeking treatment for the illness.

Take Care In Choosing Your Lawyer:
Be sure to research the asbestos lawyer that you decide to represent you. It is recommended that you find a lawyer who has experience in dealing with asbestos related lawsuits.

You may want to shop around for a lawyer before deciding who to go with. Have a consultation with more than one lawyer to get a feel for which one seems to be the most experienced and knowledgeable about handling asbestos lawsuits.

Asbestos Cancer

2007-12-17T08:13:00.001-08:00

By Jason Gluckman

Asbestos, a naturally occurring complex silicate, was extensively used in many industries, including insulation in ship building, manufacture of brake linings, and automobiles. Asbestos is a common name given to a group of six fibrous minerals which have their existence in two general forms, friable and non-friable. The toxic effects induced by Asbestos inhalation include desquamating alveolitis, bronchiolitis, and pulmonary fibrosis. Other more serious health ailments caused by Asbestos exposure include pleural effusion, pleural plaques, pleural calcification, and Asbestos Cancer (mesothelioma).

Asbestos Cancer, a serious health problem associated with Asbestos exposure, starts when cells found in mesothelium (a protective lining that covers most of the internal organs of the body) becomes abnormal and divide without control or order. These cancer cells may spread to damage tissues and organs. The diagnosis of Asbestos Cancer is difficult with pleural cytology. The characteristic radiographic feature of the disease is massive pleural effusion.

The disease is almost three times more common in males as compared to females. The maximum number of Asbestos Cancer cases is reported in the age group of 40 -60 years. The most common symptoms observed during the onset of Asbestos Cancer include asthenia, breathlessness, and dull chest pain. Other less frequent symptoms include cough, fever, and loss of weight. Haemoptysis is a symptom of Asbestos Cancer which is rarely observed.

The therapeutic (chemotherapy or immunotherapy) means are mostly unable to help significantly in the treatment. Even radiotherapy and pleurectomy fail as effective treatment options. The average patient’s survival after the diagnosis of Asbestos Cancer is 8 to 10 months. The most preferable option can be of preventive treatment for Asbestos Cancer. Strict industrial safety measures, proper hygiene, and regular check up of workers exposed to Asbestos must form the crucial part of serious Asbestos Cancer preventive treatment methods.

Malignant Mesothelioma Lawyer

2007-12-17T08:07:00.001-08:00

By Elizabeth Morgan

Awareness of the harmful effects of asbestos has increased greatly since the 1970s. The large majority of people with malignant mesothelioma have a history of exposure to asbestos. Much of this exposure occurred after it was known that asbestos is linked to potentially debilitating diseases such as asbestosis.

Awareness of the harmful effects of asbestos has increased greatly since the 1970s. The large majority of people with malignant mesothelioma have a history of exposure to asbestos. Much of this exposure occurred after it was known that asbestos is linked to potentially debilitating diseases such as asbestosis. Diseases caused by asbestos exposure are preventable by removing asbestos exposure. The fact that workers in several industries were knowingly exposed to this dangerous substance has formed the basis of a great deal of litigation to seek compensation for victims of asbestos exposure in the United States. An Internet search can provide a long list of lawyers who are involved in asbestos-related litigation.

A patient with malignant mesothelioma and a history of asbestos exposure can file a lawsuit against the entity that was responsible for the asbestos exposure. In some states, exposure to asbestos alone, without any clinical disease, is sufficient to seek damages. Lawyers experienced in asbestos-related litigation, and with detailed knowledge of asbestos-related laws, may best serve plaintiffs. A skilled lawyer can help establish that a victim was exposed to asbestos, and can often use this information to settle litigation out of court. A victim can seek compensation for medical costs and lost income. Compensation for suffering can also be sought. If the person suffering from an asbestos-related disease dies, family members can continue to seek damages on the victimâ€™s behalf.

Close to a million Americans have filed lawsuits seeking compensation from companies alleged to be responsible for exposing them to asbestos. Selecting the right lawyer can be a daunting task for individuals and families coping with a highly lethal cancer like malignant mesothelioma. There are a number of support groups for victims of asbestos exposure that can help with free information on reliable legal representation.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Litigation

2007-12-17T08:01:00.000-08:00

By Jason Gluckman

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Litigation is the legal process wherein the victim of this dreadful disease seeks compensation for the physical and emotional damages it causes.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma Litigation is the legal process wherein the victim of this dreadful disease seeks compensation for the physical and emotional damages it causes. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the cancer of the lining of the organs that develops as a result of toxic levels of exposure to asbestos in the air. The average survival time is one year, but if caught early, there is a one in two chance of surviving two years and a one in five chance of surviving five years. Peritoneal mesothelioma litigation allows a victim of this dreadful disease to seek compensation from their employer (if they were exposed to asbestos on the job) or from the manufacturer of asbestos-containing products. Through peritoneal mesothelioma litigation, a peritoneal mesothelioma victim may be able to recover damages associated with medical expenses, loss of income, and pain and suffering.

If you have been exposed to asbestos in the work place in the last 50 years, you may be at risk for developing mesothelioma. Medical professionals are able to measure the amount of asbestos fibers that are present in your body. If you have developed peritoneal mesothelioma as a result of this exposure, you may wish to contact a qualified attorney about peritoneal mesothelioma litigation. Peritoneal mesothelioma litigation attorneys can help maximize and protect your interests in a case. An experienced peritoneal mesothelioma lawyer can help you seek millions as compensation from your employer or from the asbestos manufacturing companies, who even being aware of the fact that asbestos exposure was hazardous, suppressed that medical knowledge and made billions of dollars in profits from the sale of asbestos-containing products.

Mesothelioma Lung Cancer - Asbestos Lawyers, Attorneys

2007-12-17T07:28:00.001-08:00

Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly type of cancer usually caused by exposure to asbestos or asbestos-containing products. The mesothelium is a thin mucous membrane that covers most major organs, and provides the moisture the organs need to move properly.

Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly type of cancer usually caused by exposure to asbestos or asbestos-containing products. The mesothelium is a thin mucous membrane that covers most major organs, and provides the moisture the organs need to move properly. Lubrication allows organs to move in order to circulate blood in the heart, or infuse it with oxygen in the lungs, or process food properly in the gastrointestinal tract.

There are several different kinds of mesothelioma, but by far the most common is pleural, or lung-related mesothelioma. As asbestos enters the body through respiration, the microscopic shards pierce the lungs and lodge in the delicate pleural mesothelium. The shards irritate and fester in the mesothelium, and over time will most likely develop into mesothelioma. Most cases of this cancer take decades before any symptoms begin to appear, but by the time they manifest they are too advanced to treat.

Other kinds of mesothelioma include pericardial mesothelioma, which affects the lining around the stomach and digestive tract; and pericardial mesothelioma that affects the lining of the sac that contains the heart. Most mesothelioma prognoses are not positive; victims rarely live longer than five years after their first diagnosis, and most succumb between six and 12 months.

Many experts call mesothelioma the "silent epidemic", because virtually every person in the United States has been exposed to asbestos at some point in time. Asbestos is naturally heat and flame resistant, pliable, durable, and was made into everything from baby's clothing to brake pads to insulation to potting ceramics. Many of the current victims of the mesothelioma epidemic worked in or around military installations, as asbestos was a critical part of shipbuilding and other large scale manufacturing industries, but mesothelioma can strike anyone of any age.

Part of the tragedy of mesothelioma is that many asbestos companies or industries that used the material refused to acknowledge it is dangerous. Civilizations around the world used asbestos for thousands of years, and even peoples as early as the ancient Romans knew that people who worked with the mineral died of lung ailments. Even into the 20th and 21st century these companies denied or covered up the evidence that linked their product to not only mesothelioma, but lung cancer and asbestosis as well.

In order to address the mounting concerns about the legacy of asbestos, Senator Arlen Specter proposed a bill that would remove the ability of victims of mesothelioma to pursue legal settlements against the companies or industries that may be responsible. The government expects thousands of new cases of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases in the years to come, and so the bill will establish a $140 billion trust to compensate victims or their families. Ostensibly, this is to relieve the stress on the courts of thousands of lawsuits, but it in fact would severely limit the amount of financial restitution the companies would owe their victims. Furthermore it would disallow many types of asbestos suits, and would potentially extend legal proceedings far beyond the expected lifespan of the people afflicted with this deadly disease.

What Is Asbestos?

2007-12-17T06:57:00.000-08:00

Asbestos is the common name for any variety of silicate materials that are fibrous in structure and are more resistant to acid and fire than other materials. It has two forms, serpentine and amphibole, and is made of impure magnesium silicate. Asbestos is used for thermal insulation, fire proofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings and has been used in numerous industries.

Serpentine and amphibole asbestos both exhibit physical and chemical resistance to high temperatures and applied force. The raw ore of both forms is made up of fibrous strands. The strands then continue to split into smaller and thinner fibers as disturbance continues and increases. Asbestos' ore form will initially divide into visible strands, fiber bundles, and individual fibers. But then those visible strands, bundles, and fibers will continue to split into microscopic fibers, bundles, and strands. The splitting can continue on to minute levels of microscopic levels of detection. This process is unique to asbestos and is why airborne asbestos is such a problem. The fibers can become so small that they remain airborne longer and pass undetected by the respiratory dust defenses.

Physical characteristics differentiate the serpentine and amphibole forms. Serpentines divide into curly, wavy fibers that show little resistance to being bent or spiraled. Amphibole fibers are needlelike shards that show great resistance to being bent or curled. Serpentines are like man-made wool in appearance, where amphiboles are like man-made fiberglass.

In addition to the two forms, there are three main types of asbestos: chrysotile, amosite, and crocidolite. Chrysotile asbestos is serpentine and amosite and crocidolite are amphibole. Chrysotile is the chief commercial asbestos today. Amosite is used in insulating materials and crocidolite is used for making asbestos-cement products.

Canada is a chief producer of asbestos, which has some of the largest asbestos mine fields in the world. Other producers are Russia, Zimbabwe, the Republic of South Africa, Cyprus, and the United States of America.

Asbestos is a potent carcinogen, that is, a cancer-causing substance, and is a serious health hazard. It is the known cause of pleural plaques, asbestosis, mesothelioma, and causes cancers of the lung, esophagus, and colon. Diseases caused by asbestos have a long latency period, usually taking ten to forty years before showing any symptoms of the disease. This is especially apparent today, when people who worked with installing asbestos as insulation and other materials in the 1970s are just now coming to realize that they are developing cancer at alarming rates.