While maintaining boilers in the U.S. Navy, I was
exposed to various asbestos products and
asbestos-containing equipment. Since I was never
adequately warned of the dangers associated with
working with asbestos, I have now been diagnosed
with Mesothelioma Cancer.
What is Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is caused
from the exposure to a group of naturally
occurring minerals called Asbestos. Asbestos is
used in many products such as building materials
and vehicle brakes because if its ability to
resist heat and corrosion.
What causes Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is caused
from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. Asbestos
has been used in North America starting in the
late 1800's. For more than 50 years manufacturers
produced products using Asbestos fully aware that
the workers would eventually suffer from their
contact. It wasn’t until the late 1970’s that
the Consumer Products Safety Commission banned
asbestos in wallboard patching compounds and
artificial ash for gas fireplaces since the
asbestos fibers are released during use. Then in
1989, the Environmental Protection Agency banned
all new use of asbestos, however, no full ban on
the use of asbestos has been put into place.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Exposure to asbestos does not affect you
immediately. In fact, you could go years without
ever having any effects. Sometime the diagnosis
could be delayed due non-specific symptoms related
to Mesothelioma. You may have symptoms similar to
viral pneumonia. You may have shortness of breath,
chest pain, nausea, weight loss, bowel
obstruction, anemia, swelling of the feet,
persistent cough, or you may not have any symptoms
at all.
Mesothelioma Diagnosis
The patient’s medical history is discussed
including and exposure to asbestos. A complete
physical, x-rays, and lung function tests will
usually be performed. A CT scan or a MRI may be
done also. Careful assessment of clinical and
radiological findings and a tissue biopsy are
needed in confirming Mesothelioma cases.
What you should do
If you believe that you may have any of the
symptoms associated with Mesothelioma, you need to
see your doctor. There are many options for you to
consider. If you suffer from Mesothelioma, then
you may be due compensation due to the negligence
of an employer or organization who exposed you to
Asbestos. Take steps now and find an attorney who
will promptly take action and get you the
compensation that you deserve!
