Saturday, March 2, 2013

Problems Arising from Failure to Immediately Diagnose Mesothelioma - Health

Mesothelioma is indeed one of the most talked-about diseases of this century. This is because more and more people are being afflicted by the ailment and there are lawsuits being filed linked to the diagnosis.

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is developed in the mesothelial tissue, or the sacs that surround the body's internal organs. When unlikely matters accumulate in these tissues, a tumor may arise.

Mesothelioma is often diagnosed in the chest area. It is caused by the inhalation of asbestos, a construction material widely used in the past for insulation purposes. Because asbestos is disintegrative in nature, when exposed to air, it slowly breaks down into very fine fibers that also goes with the air.

When a person inhales the air that contains the micro-fibers of asbestos, the substance will proceed to the lungs and then to the sacs surrounding the lungs.

There are problems arising from the diagnosis of mesothelioma. Often, there are failures in proper and immediate diagnosis of the disease. A person will surely develop mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos for at least about a month or two. The problem is that mesothelioma does not abruptly and easily develop and manifest symptoms.

On the average, it takes about 20 to 30 years after exposure to asbestos before a person is diagnosed with the disease. Worse, symptoms usually show up when mesothelioma is already at the terminal stage. This is the cause of problems for mesothelioma patients who are aiming to seek compensation from asbestos firms.

Why lawsuits can fail

When a patient is diagnosed with mesothelioma, chances are often that he or she is already in the final phase of the cancer. That means, it will only be a year at the maximum for the patient to live. It is only after diagnosis that any mesothelioma victim can file a lawsuit.

You know how long litigation processes take. It will take at least more than a year before a lawsuit is taken to court or at least be given initial hearing. If the mesothelioma patient is only given a year to live, how would he be able to seek justice for the damage done to his health?

Often, asbestos damage lawsuits are junked or stopped after the complainant dies. Not unless the family of the victim will pursue the case, which would just be harder, more tedious and more costly, asbestos damage claims often fail.

Failure to diagnose mesothelioma on time raises much concern among potential mesothelioma victims. But how can justice be served to the victims? How can compensation be awarded appropriately to the patients?

If there are controversial legal cases getting into the headlines nowadays, they could be among those rare instances wherein the complainants lived up longer than the usual year-long life expectancy after the diagnosis.

Some patients live to pursue lawsuits

Not all diagnosed mesothelioma cases end up in death. Some patients, especially those diagnosed with epithelial malignant mesothelioma, can overcome or survive the disease. When these patients do, their chances of seeking proper compensation and damages against asbestos companies are greater.

The fact that their lives have been altered by mesothelioma also makes the case more inclined to be in favor of the complainant. The few numbers of asbestos firms worldwide have spent most of their corporate lives defending themselves against such lawsuits that most of these companies have already folded up and filed for bankruptcy.

That is another problem. If asbestos firms responsible for mesothelioma incidences in an area collapses, how can the patients be compensated? Luckily, some governments are mindful and responsible enough to handle such cases.

The governments either seize the company or assign administrators so the remaining assets would be spend to compensate existing and potential mesothelioma complainants. Several state governments in the United States and Australia are doing such acts to protect the interest of asbestos exposure victims.

Diagnosis of mesothelioma, or failure of it, often becomes problematic and stalled. But if you think you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, do initiatives to monitor your health and seek legal advice regarding the situation. Asbestos firms for their part, should be responsible in providing assistance and compensation to mesothelioma victims.





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Friday, March 1, 2013

Causes Of Mesothelioma - Health

Mesothelioma is the growth of malignant cells in mesothelium, the thin membrane covering the body's internal organs. This mesothelium lining covers the pleural, peritoneal and pericardial cavities. Pleura is a membrane covering the lungs and it is the most common location where mesothelioma cancer occurs also known as pleural mesothelioma. Peritoneum, the protective covering that lines the abdominal cavity may also develop malignant tumors and cause peritoneal mesothelioma.

Mesothelioma is one of the rarest cancers in the world that is caused only by exposure to asbestos. Its exposure can be direct, by inhalation of asbestos or indirect exposure in which the asbestos particles are inhaled from the clothing, hair, equipment or other articles that were previously exposed to asbestos.

Causes of Mesothelioma Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous mineral that is mined in different parts of the world due to its wide utility in various industries. However, it is a deadly carcinogen too and a mojor cause of mesothelioma and asbestosis.

Asbestos fibers are known to cause cancer of the mesothelium. Asbestos is the fibrous form of several minerals and hydrous silicates of magnesium found under ground. There are 3 types of asbestos, the blue one, the while one and the brown one. Of all these 3 types, the blue one also called amphibole, long and thin in structure is more carcinogenic than white or chrysolite asbestos or the brown one known as amosite.

However, in some cases the brown asbestos has also been found to cause mesothelioma. And it is for this reason that people exposed to asbestos even for a short period are vulnerable to the disease.

Pleural MesotheliomaAsbestos fibers are very fine and easily make their way to the lungs where they settle down in the parenchyma of the lung and penetrate the pleura that later develops malignant mesothelial plaques.

Pleura, which anchors lungs to the chest cavity, is itself a double-layered membrane. The inner layer called visceral pleura surrounds the lungs, while the outer one, known as parietal pleura, forms the lining of the pleural or chest cavity. The two pleural layers are filled with a fluid that helps them to slide over each other as we breathe. As the disease progresses, the delicate pleural membranes thicken and press the lungs. A fluid secreted by the malignant cells, pleural effusion, may also collect between visceral and parietal pleurae that causes problem in breathing and other complications.

Peritoneum MesotheliomaThe asbestos fibers may also cause cancer in the peritoneum, known as peritoneal mesothelioma. This leads to thickening of the membranes surrounding abdominal organs and collection of a fluid, ascites in the abdominal cavity making it swell.

Though it is yet not clear how peritoneal mesothelioma develops, it is believed that from lungs, the asbestos fibers are transported to abdomen and its organs by the lymphatic system or they may be deposited in the gut through saliva contaminated by the asbestos fibers.

Pericardial MesotheliomaThis is the rarest type of mesothelioma cancer that comprises of only 5% of all the mesothelioma cases. Like other types of mesothelioma cancer, pericardial mesothelioma is also caused by the inhalation of asbestos dust and fibers. The lining of the chest cavity which protects the heart is known as pericardium. It is provided with a natural fluid or mucous that provide continuous lubrication to the heart so that it can work properly and perform its functions.

It is a very deadly disease that destroys the tissues around the heart and diminishes the survival chances of the patient. As the asbestos particles settle further into the lining of the chest or pericardial, the cancer spreads in the body. It destroys the heart tissues and muscles that is very hazardous to life and proves fatal for the patient.





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Thursday, February 28, 2013

Mesothelioma - Breaking News: Is the Cure Finally Here? - Health

Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer that attacks three vital components of the human body. Mesothelioma damages the lining of the chest, abdominal cavity, and the heart. Unfortunately many cases of mesothelioma are not diagnosed in the early stages of the disease because symptoms may remain latent for decades.

Many cases of mesothelioma are caused by asbestos, a mineral fiber that was used in the construction of buildings because of its highly effective insulation and flame resistant properties. The inhalation of these fibers is directly related to the diagnosis of mesothelioma.

Over a period of decades mesothelioma destroys healthy cells by assaulting them with three main avenues of attack:

1. Epithelioid. Epithelioid mesothelioma cells are the most common and relatively easiest to treat of all types of mesothelioma. This type of cell appears to be a papillary or tubular growth that usually affects the outer membranes and linings of the internal organs and other bodily surfaces. Somewhere between 50 and 70% of all mesothelioma cases belong to this category, and although this cancer is usually extremely difficult to treat, epithelioid mesothelioma is the most likely to respond to treatment.

2. Sarcomatoid. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is the most serious form of mesothelioma, as it is the least likely to respond to treatment. These spindle-shaped patterns of cells that appear to overlap each other are also fortunately the rarest type of the cancer, with approximately 10 and 20% of all mesothelioma cases falling into this type. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is so dangerous because it attacks and arises from the support tissues of the body, such as bone, cartilage, fat, and muscle, and cancers in these areas are notoriously difficult and painful to treat. Patients with this form of cancer rarely live longer than six months after diagnosis.

3. Biphasic cells is the final condition. Biphasic mesothelioma is not an independent type of mesothelioma, but rather a combination of sarcomatoid and epithelioid. It is also a mixed bag of conditions in that it can take the good and bad aspects of the other two types, and almost 20-35% of all mesothelioma cases fall into either mixed or biphasic areas.

Is the Cure Finally Here?

Typically, treatment for mesothelioma depends on where the cancer actually is developed, the stage of the disease, and how old and healthy the patient is. But generally, like many other cancers, treatment for mesothelioma cancer includes surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or a mixture of all three.

Treatment may ease the pain, and prolong the life of some patients. But unfortunately there is no cure for mesothelioma other than hope, and a strong fight. Although most mesothelioma patients do not live much longer than 12 months after diagnosis, some have lived upwards of 18 months.





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Wednesday, February 27, 2013

Wrongful Death Lawsuits and Mesothelioma Cancer - Health

mesothelioma litigation is usually brought forth after a victim's exposure to asbestos years earlier, but these lawsuits are often coupled with mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuits. A mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit occur when a plantiff or claimant, such as a victim or family member of a mesothelioma cancer victim, brings forth legal action in a civil court.Why File A Mesothelioma Wrongful Death Lawsuit?The death of a loved one as a result of any disease is always terrible for the family of the victim, however that pain can be made even more difficult to bear when the disease and death come as a result of the negligence or action of a third party. Luckily, family and friends of a victim can find comfort with an experienced and knowledgeable wrongful death lawyer who can offer assitance as well as ease suffering. Victims of mesothelioma cancer, which is incurable, have often been exposed to asbestos fibers that are breathed in and attach to the lung. This exposure usua lly occurs at a place of employment.Because of the fact that mesothelioma is so serious a form of lung cancer, the ultimately outcome of the disease if often the death of the patient. Families of mesothelioma victims therefore should consider speaking with a qualified mesothelioma lawyer about the possibility of filing a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit, even in the case that the mesothelioma victim has not yet succumbed to this serious lung disease.What Are Expectations and Potential Outcomes Concerning Those Filing A Mesothelioma Wrongful Death Lawsuit?Beginning in the twentieth century, there is a long history of mesothelioma litigation, with a lengthy precedence of the negligence and responsibility for those companies that manufactured asbestos or placed their employees in direct contact with it. Therefore, the family of any individual who has died as a result of mesothelioma cause by exposure to asbestos can expect some compensation in a mesothelioma wrongful death l awsuit. To fully comprehend the details of a mesothelioma wrongful death lawsuit, it is advisable to seek council in a lawyer with experience in these types of lawsuits. A mesothelioma wrongful death lawyer can answer questions and deliver details of expected compensation to those suffering.





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Tuesday, February 26, 2013

Mesothelioma Litigation Facts - Law

Mesothelioma litigation is an option for mesothelioma patients. Litigation however is not an easy path to consider. Before you choose to sue, there are a couple of crucial facts that you should be aware of.

You have the right to sue.

In some cases, your condition may be caused by the negligence of others. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that results from exposure to asbestos fibers. Like any average individual, you probably wouldn't consider exposing yourself to asbestos of your own free will. You may have been exposed to asbestos due to your work or due to a family member who works with asbestos.

So why should you sue if you find out you have mesothelioma? Companies that hire individuals to work on asbestos would typically know that there are certain dangers involved in handling the mineral. Company safety rules should therefore be strictly implemented to prevent asbestos exposure. If you develop mesothelioma, it may be due to a company's inability to protect and warn people against the dangers of asbestos.

Different states have different laws regarding mesothelioma cases.

Mesothelioma litigation procedures aren't always the same. Different states have different rules and laws covering mesothelioma cases. One thing is common though, various localities have their own set specific time frames for litigation procedures. It is therefore very important that you seek legal assistance as soon as you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. If you act too late, you may not be able to get the monetary compensation that is rightfully yours.

Not every lawyer can handle a mesothelioma case.

Some lawyers do not handle mesothelioma litigations. Not every lawyer however is ready or equipped to do so. Every lawyer has his/her own line of specialty. There are therefore some lawyers who know better how to handle a mesothelioma case. A mesothelioma lawyer would know better the legal technicalities, laws and details involved in a mesothelioma case. Other than these, he would also have sufficient disease knowledge to help clients trace exposure details and determine the extent of physical, emotional and financial damage.

Time is of the essence in a mesothelioma case. This does not mean though that you should be haphazard in your choice of a lawyer. Make sure that the expert that you pick has had some background and success in mesothelioma cases. A good lawyer can make the difference between prompt financial or emotional relief and absolute loss.

Litigation can be expensive.

Like any form of lawsuit, mesothelioma cases can also be costly. Many legal entities however are aware that many clients are not able to pay outright. The collection of fees is therefore postponed until damages are awarded. Be warned though that attorney's fees for mesothelioma cases can be quite steep. Lawyers can collect up to 40% of the total amount awarded. For many patients though this is already considered a fair deal. After all, mesothelioma cases are not easy to handle and win.

Mesothelioma litigation may not be easy. The compensation however, that you can hope to get after the procedure can be a great help to you and your family.





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Monday, February 25, 2013

Mesothelioma: Beware the Dangers of Asbestos - Health - Cancer

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that develops in the thin tissue layer coating many of your organs. The American Cancer Society estimates that approximately 2,000-3,000 people are diagnosed with the disease each year.

There are three types of mesothelioma cancer. Each is classified based on where it occurs in your body:

Pleural malignant mesothelioma occurs in the tissue around your lungs. It is the most common form of the disease. Peritoneal mesothelioma affects the tissue around your abdomen. Pericardial mesothelioma occurs in the tissue around your heart.

Symptoms of Mesothelioma

The symptoms of mesothelioma vary based on the region of your body affected by the cancer. The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:

Shortness of breath Painful breathing Painful coughing Chest pain near the rib cage Lumps of tissue under your chest skin Weight loss Dry cough

The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma are:

Abdominal pain Abdominal swelling Change in bowel habits (frequent diarrhea or constipation) Lumps of tissue in abdomen Weight loss Nausea Vomiting

Causes of Mesothelioma

The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos, a harmful fiber used as insulation. People who have a high exposure to asbestos are at greatest risk of developing mesothelioma. This exposure most commonly occurs in the workplace. Frequently, blue collar jobs in mines, ship yards, manufacturing facilities, construction sites, and railway facilities place people at greatest risk of asbestos exposure.

If asbestos dust is breathed or swallowed, the fibers can settle in your lungs or stomach, resulting in an irritation that ultimately causes mesothelioma. People with very high levels of exposure to asbestos are at greater risk of contracting mesothelioma than people with lower levels of exposure. It can take as long as 30 to 40 years for the disease to develop.

Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Over the years, many lawsuits have been filed and won on behalf of people exposed to asbestos at work. If you have been diagnosed with this rare cancer, you should consult an experienced mesothelioma attorney at once to see if you have a valid claim.

It is important to choose an attorney who specializes in mesothelioma claims. This is a highly complex area of the law, and you should not trust your case to someone lacking the proper experience. Several factors complicate many of these claims, including:

The long delay between exposure to asbestos and the development of mesothelioma The widespread use of asbestos in many common products The ability to develop mesothelioma from second-hand exposure to asbestos

These factors can often make it difficult to prove precisely where you were exposed to this dangerous fiber. You will need a lawyer who can skillfully work with these factors and still help you receive the compensation you deserve.

If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you are most likely looking at a lifetime of pain, medical expenses, and lost earning capacity. You should be compensated for your injuries. Why trust your mesothelioma claim to someone who is not an expert?





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Sunday, February 24, 2013

Know more about Mesothelioma through Mesothelioma Support Groups - Health - Cancer

Mesothelioma is a disease of rare type of cancer that affects cancerous cells in the sac of lining chest. abdominal cavity or around the heart. These areas are given medical terms called the pleura, the peritoneum and the pericardium and the lining around these organs is called the mesothelium. There are many mesothelioma treatment support groups around the world are working for the relief of patients suffering from the disease. They offer an important way to coordinate and discuss treatment options, physician references and ways to manage with the rigors of the treatment, to the millions of people suffering from mesothelioma.These mesothelioma support groups help million mesothelioma patients and their families to obtain efficient information in different parts of the world. The support groups work with the needs of the patients in mind and attempt to educate the people about the different type of treatments available for mesothelioma disease, which is a rare cancer that is almost always caused by asbestos exposure. Many people in the World including US have been interested to join various support groups in their efforts to raise awareness of mesothelioma disease and its latest treatments. There are many interesting programs conducted by these support groups. These programs basically used to promote the contribution from people spread across the globe. They focus on providing improved therapeutic options, as well as economic aid to the people. Nowadays many countries have mesothelioma support group to help, listen, advice and provide information on necessary treatments to people with mesothelioma. They also provide essential treatment to the mesothelioma patients. These mesothelioma support groups also work with physicians and scientists to obtain the latest research information on mesothelioma treatments. Mesothelioma support groups at New Mesothelioma Treatments provide detail information on mesothelioma cancer disease in order to keep mes othelioma patients aware about this dangerous disease.





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