Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma: An Aggressive Cancer

Mesothelioma claims the lives of about 3,000 people in the U.S. every year. It is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is the lining covering internal organs such as the lungs, abdomen and heart.

What causes Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma cancer is most frequently caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that has been used in many everyday products because it is durable, flexible, heat resistant and inexpensive. People who work with asbestos products and their household members are at risk of developing asbestos cancer. Even though working with asbestos products involves a risk of developing mesothelioma, this risk is significantly reduced if protective equipment such as respirators are used when working with asbestos products. Tragically, many companies in the asbestos industry did not provide workers with protective equipment or even warn about the dangers of asbestos even though they knew of those dangers. This knowledge was concealed by many companies in the interest of profits. The law allows people suffering from mesothelioma to hold asbestos companies accountable for the harm they caused.

Research has indicated that there may be other causes of mesothelioma. Radiation utilizing thorium dioxide has been linked to the development of mesothelioma. Zeolite, a mineral that is chemically related to asbestos has been identified as a potential cause of mesothelioma. Simian virus 40 (SV40) has also been suggested as a possible cause of mesothelioma but additional research is needed to confirm this possibility. Nevertheless, the fact remains that the vast majority of mesothelioma cases are due to asbestos exposure. The law recognizes that asbestos product manufacturers and employers were negligent and the law allows people suffering from mesothelioma to hold asbestos companies accountable for the harm they caused.

Products that can Potentially Cause Mesothelioma

Products containing asbestos can lead to the development of malignant mesothelioma. These products become dangerous when they release asbestos fibers. Asbestos fibers can be released when the product is cut, hammered or otherwise physically disturbed. Some asbestos containing products are: cement siding panels, vinyl tiles, drywall jointing materials, thermal spray, gaskets and brake pads. People who work with these products e.g., mechanics, construction workers, electricians, sheet metal workers and boilermakers are at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers that these products can release and developing mesothelioma disease.

Types of Mesothelioma

There are three major types of mesothelioma. They are named after the areas of the body that they affect. The types are: pleural mesothelioma, peritoneal mesothelioma and pericardial mesothelioma.

Justice for Mesothelioma Patients: Weitz & Luxenberg Lawyers

Mesothelioma is often caused by the recklessness of companies in the asbestos industry that failed to warn of the dangers of asbestos and failed to provide protective equipment to prevent asbestos exposure. Weitz & Luxenberg mesothelioma lawyers have been representing people suffering from mesothelioma since 1986. Since that time, Weitz & Luxenberg mesothelioma attorneys have won billions of dollars for mesothelioma patients. This money has helped people with mesothelioma pay for expensive medical care and support their loved ones. The Weitz & Luxenberg law firm accepts mesothelioma cases from all regions of the U.S. and some regions of Canada. For a free case review from a leading asbestos lawyer, complete the form on this page.