Asbestos is not used as much as it once was in the United States, which is good news since it can lead to serious health conditions such as mesothelioma or asbestosis. Each of these conditions, as well as other lung problems that can be caused by asbestos, can become life-threatening.
Many people worry that their exposure will lead to one of these asbestos-related health conditions. The reality is that it’s a possibility, but there is a low chance of developing such a rare condition without regular exposure. However, exposure can happen in a number of ways, such as working with asbestos-containing insulation or smoking cigarettes containing asbestos. Today, insulation doesn’t contain asbestos, and cigarettes don’t either, but that doesn’t help those who were exposed decades ago.
Mesothelioma, in specific, can develop many decades after exposure. It is a terminal diagnosis, although there is a chance to remove it from the body in some cases. It affects the pleural lining of the lungs, making it difficult to breathe due to scarring. In most cases, construction workers are the people most at risk, since they would have been in regular contact with asbestos many years ago.
What should you do if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma?
If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, time is not on your side. You need to seek immediate treatment and discuss your financial options with your attorney. You may still be eligible for workers’ compensation or other awards due to the nature of your injuries. Our site has more on the importance of taking legal action for the diagnosis of an asbestos-related illness.
