Find Legal Topics > Mesothelioma Laws > What is Mesothelioma

What is Mesothelioma


What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs as well as the heart abdomen and other organs.  Mesothelioma is often found in individuals exposed to high levels of asbestos in the air and the average life expectancy after diagnosis has been found to be little over 1 year.  75% of Mesothelioma is called Pleural Mesothelioma and involves the lining of the lungs.  Asbestos related mesothelioma is cause when asbestos fibers are torn and become airborne, thereby entering the lungs.  

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, dry cough, harsh breathing sounds, and reduced chest expansion.  If you have any of these symptoms it is important to meet with your physician immediately.  Although the life expectancy is low for those diagnosed with mesothelioma, if treated quickly and properly the life expectancy can increase to levels around 30%

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally in the environment that are resistant to heat, fire and chemicals.  In the past they were a frequently used material used in industry, especially the building and construction industries.  Ceiling and floor tiles, paint, adhesives and plastics all contained excessive amounts of asbestos at some point in time.  

What are the symptoms of Asbestos exposure?

The four most common diseases resulting from extensive asbestos exposure are:

• Malignant Mesothelioma – a rare form of cancer that affects the abdomen and chest

• Lung Cancer – Cancer of the lung.

• Asbestosis – a non-malignant disease that causes scarring in lung tissue

• Asbestos Pleural Disease – a disease that causes scarring of the lining of the lung and chest.

WHAT DO I DO IF I FEEL I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED?

If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos it is imperative that you first see your physician.  If it is likely that your physical impairment was the result of asbestos exposure contact an experience attorney immediately.  Because the statute of limitations for tort claims is set by the State at a specific time frame the clock is ticking from the time of exposure.  Because the effects of asbestos exposure are latent the awareness of a lawsuit may not be present until later when your statute of limitation is about to extinguish your rights.  

Related Topics