There is no accurate count in the U.S. as to how many U.S. citizens have been exposed to asbestos through job related responsibilities, environmental exposure, or as the result of living around asbestos products, or living with someone who worked with asbestos, also known as secondary exposure. It is safe to say, however, that since the mining of asbestos began, almost 100 years ago, the number is well into the millions. That number continues to increase due to the fact that asbestos is still in products today, and is still present in buildings. Thankfully, not all people who are exposed to asbestos will develop an asbestos related disease such as lung cancer or mesothelioma. Those that do, however, are entitled to compensation and a mesothelioma lawyer can help.
Aside from mere monetary recovery, however, someone who is exposed to asbestos and develops an asbestos related disease must first prove, legally, that their illness was caused by exposure to asbestos. In the U.S., the only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Thus, for those individuals who are diagnosed with mesothelioma, there is a much greater chance for proving that causation. There is also a much better chance for effective treatment of mesothelioma if it is properly diagnosed. Mesothelioma is an extremely aggressive cancer, and requires specialized treatment and management. Unfortunately, improper diagnosis continues to plague those suffering from asbestos-related diseases.
It is estimated that approximately 2,500 to 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. This is a very small portion of new cancer diagnoses. Due to the fact that mesothelioma is very rare, it is not often immediately considered as the diagnosis. This is why it is important that anyone who is seeking treatment for an illness which may be related to asbestos informs their doctor of that asbestos exposure. In addition to the rarity of mesothelioma, the actual malignant mesothelioma cancer cells can look like other types of cancerous cells. These factors can combine to lead to a misdiagnosis, which is catastrophic to the victim as it could lead to the wrong treatments being utilized. Additionally, depending on the diagnosis, it could prevent a victim and their family from being properly compensated for damage inflicted upon them by those responsible for exposing the victim to asbestos.
It is paramount, therefore, that if you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, that you share that medical history with your doctor when seeking treatment for any illness which may be asbestos related. Also, do not hesitate to be an advocate for your own health and seek second opinions if you believe it is warranted. One of the best alternatives is to see a doctor in your area who has diagnosed and treated asbestos related illnesses like lung cancer and mesothelioma before. At Cates Law Firm, we can help you through this process. Our experience in representing victims of mesothelioma enables our mesothelioma lawyers to assist you or a loved one in finding a treatment center nearby which has the necessary experience to diagnose and treat mesothelioma and other asbestos related illnesses. Our mesothelioma lawyers can also assist you or a loved one with interpreting the results of medical reports and lab reports in conjunction with the victim's work history and backgrou nd, and therefore determine whether exposure to asbestos caused the illness. Due to the aggressive and serious nature of mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases, having the correct diagnosis is paramount to successful treatment. You can find here a list of treatment centers and doctors around the country. And if you would like to speak to one of our mesothelioma lawyers for a free, no risk consultation regarding your rights, please do not hesitate to contact us.
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