There are very many mesothelioma law firms around and the main reason why they specialize in these particular cases is the huge return the cases can fetch. Others might be genuinely out there for the compassion of mesothelioma victims but, they are limited. Firstly though, mesothelioma is a cancer that affects the protective lining of the heart, lungs and abdomen. The known cause of mesothelioma is asbestos exposure. This is a natural mineral that has very many industrial uses mainly because of its heat and fire resistant qualities. It is known to lodge in the system when inhaled where it can stay there for many years where finally it causes the emergence of a disease. It has no scent and its fibers in the air are microscopic. Therefore mesothelioma law firms are relevant in the following way.
Firstly, the companies that employ workers to work exposed to asbestos have a case to answer because they have a moral duty to inform workers. They are therefore directly responsible for the illness in their worker. When a mesothelioma victim decides to file a suit against the company, they need to have the representation of good lawyers who can be found in a good mesothelioma law firm. Some of the workers who might be at risk to asbestos exposure include miners, millers, shipyard workers, building construction workers and others. With the serious realization of the dangers posed by asbestos, strict legislations have been put in place to ban certain types of asbestos and also there are restrictions on the amount of asbestos exposed to workers.
Also, workers who are close to asbestos have protective cloths and equipment to protect then from the substance. When they leave work, most workers take a shower and change cloths to avoid contaminating their families. When you suspect that you might be suffering from mesothelioma, you need to visit a doctor for a diagnosis. If you have the disease, you need to take time and look for a reputable mesothelioma law firm which will have good lawyers. They should have some experience in this kinds of cases. They should not live very far from where you are located so that you can reach them with minimal cost. The mesothelioma law firm should be legal and licensed to practice law in your particular state or country. They should give you more information on the cases they have been able to resolve.
On the internet, you will find very many mesothelioma law firms advertising themselves and you should not just take them at face value. You need to contact them and visit their offices to get a first hand feel of what they are all about. Many firms will be literally fighting for your case and you do not have to hire the ones who are first make a perfect pitch. Firstly, you need to know that they can represent you and win the case. You should discuss on the attorney fee before you hire the lawyer from the law firms. Usually, the most common way of payment is through a contingency basis and this means that they will be paid when you win the case. There is no doubt that with the right lawyers on your side, you are certain to get your deserved justice will be served.
Friday, September 5, 2008
Monday, September 1, 2008
Mesothelioma Therapy - What Are the Options?
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer that affects the membranes surrounding the internal organs of humans. When not detected until it has progressed to a late stage, it is often difficult, if not impossible to control. Adding to the particular danger of this cancer is that the symptoms are very general and non-specific. Because of this, it is often not diagnosed early enough. Exposure to asbestos is the leading cause of mesothelioma, documented in nearly all cases.
Because of its aggressive spread, you should contact your doctor as soon as you begin to suspect mesothelioma, especially if you have been exposed to asbestos at some point. You can first expect a screening from your doctor, which can include a variety of tests like X-Rays or CT scans. If these preliminary tests show any sign of mesothelioma, you can expect a long series of additional tests to rule out any other diseases.
The only definitive test for mesothelioma is a moderately invasive procedure called a biopsy. If your previous screenings come back positive, a small sample of tissue will be removed from the affected area and examined by a specialist. There are many different types and techniques of biopsy at your doctor's disposal, and he/she will select the right one depending on where the cancerous growth is located. Depending on which stage your cancer has advanced to, your Mesothelioma therapy options may be many. Mesothelioma can be classified as being in one of four stages of development.
Stage I is the earliest and very localized. If found at this stage, the prognosis can be quite good. Therapy options at this point can include surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Clinical trials may also be used on a limited basis to determine the usefulness of new cancer fighting compounds.
Stage II refers to mesothelioma that has spread to other areas near the tumor. Once the cancer begins to spread, the prognosis rapidly deteriorates, however with the right treatment and mindset, hope for recovery still remains. Many of the same therapies for stage I are used for Stage II. Quite often with an individual who has stage I or stage II mesothelioma, the doctor will employ several therapies in conjunction with one another. While very effective, this can leave the patient in a very weakened state, and thus is not recommended for more advanced stages.
Stage III indicates the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. At this point, techniques such as surgery are limited in their effectiveness, simply because of the volume of cancer in the patient. If surgery is elected during stage III or IV, it is usually to increase the quality of life for the patient. Radiation and chemotherapy can still be used at this stage as a mesothelioma therapy, however their ability to control the cancer is diminished significantly.
Stage IV is the most advanced type and is applied to cases where the cancer has spread to parts of the body far removed from the tumor. Usually, when stage IV is reached, the mesothelioma spreads to the brain and the prognosis is very low. Mesothelioma therapy options at this point are usually used to improve the patient's quality of life, although there have been cases where a patient has been responsive enough to treatment that remission is achieved.
The number one asset you have in beating this cancer has little to do with choosing your mesothelioma therapy, but is catching your disease early. More than the different techniques used to combat the cancer, the early discovery of it can determine your prognosis.
Because of its aggressive spread, you should contact your doctor as soon as you begin to suspect mesothelioma, especially if you have been exposed to asbestos at some point. You can first expect a screening from your doctor, which can include a variety of tests like X-Rays or CT scans. If these preliminary tests show any sign of mesothelioma, you can expect a long series of additional tests to rule out any other diseases.
The only definitive test for mesothelioma is a moderately invasive procedure called a biopsy. If your previous screenings come back positive, a small sample of tissue will be removed from the affected area and examined by a specialist. There are many different types and techniques of biopsy at your doctor's disposal, and he/she will select the right one depending on where the cancerous growth is located. Depending on which stage your cancer has advanced to, your Mesothelioma therapy options may be many. Mesothelioma can be classified as being in one of four stages of development.
Stage I is the earliest and very localized. If found at this stage, the prognosis can be quite good. Therapy options at this point can include surgical removal of the tumor, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Clinical trials may also be used on a limited basis to determine the usefulness of new cancer fighting compounds.
Stage II refers to mesothelioma that has spread to other areas near the tumor. Once the cancer begins to spread, the prognosis rapidly deteriorates, however with the right treatment and mindset, hope for recovery still remains. Many of the same therapies for stage I are used for Stage II. Quite often with an individual who has stage I or stage II mesothelioma, the doctor will employ several therapies in conjunction with one another. While very effective, this can leave the patient in a very weakened state, and thus is not recommended for more advanced stages.
Stage III indicates the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes. At this point, techniques such as surgery are limited in their effectiveness, simply because of the volume of cancer in the patient. If surgery is elected during stage III or IV, it is usually to increase the quality of life for the patient. Radiation and chemotherapy can still be used at this stage as a mesothelioma therapy, however their ability to control the cancer is diminished significantly.
Stage IV is the most advanced type and is applied to cases where the cancer has spread to parts of the body far removed from the tumor. Usually, when stage IV is reached, the mesothelioma spreads to the brain and the prognosis is very low. Mesothelioma therapy options at this point are usually used to improve the patient's quality of life, although there have been cases where a patient has been responsive enough to treatment that remission is achieved.
The number one asset you have in beating this cancer has little to do with choosing your mesothelioma therapy, but is catching your disease early. More than the different techniques used to combat the cancer, the early discovery of it can determine your prognosis.
Asbestos Attorney
For those that have been suffering due to exposure to asbestos, it can be a long road to recovery. If you have developed cancerous tumors from it you may never recover due to the amount of damage done to your lungs. You have a right to seek financial and medical compensation due to it. This is especially true if the fact that asbestos was in the area was known but never disclosed.
These types of cases can be very long and drawn out in a court of law. It can take years to get the case resolved. To help speed things along you should secure the assistance of an attorney that specializes in asbestos related cases. They can help you get the compensation you deserve. In most cases they will be willing to settle for a percentage of what you get. Therefore if you don't win the case you won't be out thousands of dollars that you had to pay to the attorney.
Depending on the facts of the case, it may be possible to get an out of court settlement. For example if the asbestos was found at a place of employment they may be willing to settle to keep the media attention away from it. With so much information today about the link with asbestos and health issues, most of these businesses also know they will lose in a court of law.
Take your time to find the very best representation for your case. An attorney that specializes in this area will be able to help you get through the process. They will know what medical information you need and what you can expect. This way you can understand what the entire process is going to entail. You don't want a basic attorney that will be learning right along side of you.
Always take advantage of free consultations that are offered out there. This way you can take some time to talk to an asbestos attorney. You want to find out if they think you have a case, fees, and how well they communicate with you. If you aren't sold on what they have to offer then keep looking for better representation.
These types of cases can be very long and drawn out in a court of law. It can take years to get the case resolved. To help speed things along you should secure the assistance of an attorney that specializes in asbestos related cases. They can help you get the compensation you deserve. In most cases they will be willing to settle for a percentage of what you get. Therefore if you don't win the case you won't be out thousands of dollars that you had to pay to the attorney.
Depending on the facts of the case, it may be possible to get an out of court settlement. For example if the asbestos was found at a place of employment they may be willing to settle to keep the media attention away from it. With so much information today about the link with asbestos and health issues, most of these businesses also know they will lose in a court of law.
Take your time to find the very best representation for your case. An attorney that specializes in this area will be able to help you get through the process. They will know what medical information you need and what you can expect. This way you can understand what the entire process is going to entail. You don't want a basic attorney that will be learning right along side of you.
Always take advantage of free consultations that are offered out there. This way you can take some time to talk to an asbestos attorney. You want to find out if they think you have a case, fees, and how well they communicate with you. If you aren't sold on what they have to offer then keep looking for better representation.
Asbestos Dust
Asbestos is a type of material found in many buildings. It has been linked to causing very serious health problems for people. Even though it is a good material for keeping heat in it is rarely used in the construction industry anymore due to the ill effects it can have on people that are continually exposed to it. In fact it has been deemed illegal to use in many countries for about 20 years now. Efforts have to be taken to remove it from facilities that already exist.
It really does depend on the type of asbestos that was used though. The one that seems to be the most dangerous to both humans and animals is chrysotile. Those that work in areas with this type of asbestos or that live by factories that have it have been linked to lung problems and to tumors. The fibers in the asbestos are breathed in without a person knowing and therefore they may be exposed to it without ever finding out until they become ill.
Yet many in the construction industry aren't happy with the image that asbestos has gotten in society. They feel it is a very good material to use for many projects. They want to be able to use a less concentrate of it so there with be fewer fibers in place. They believe it can be a cheaper way to get the same benefits for their projects. However, with the health risks that have been identified it simply isn't going to happen.
As a result of the controversial issues with asbestos, fiberglass has replaced it for construction purposes. They also use organic fibers instead of the harmful asbestos to get the same results. Removing asbestos from buildings and replacing it with the new materials is very costly and time consuming. Those involved in the process have to wear a mask to help prevent the harmful fibers from getting into their bodies.
Some people have become so ill due to the exposure from asbestos that they are unable to go about their normal life. They have filed lawsuits against the companies in an effort to at least get their medical expenses covered. These types of cases can draw out in the courts for a very long time if the parties can't agree on a settlement.
It really does depend on the type of asbestos that was used though. The one that seems to be the most dangerous to both humans and animals is chrysotile. Those that work in areas with this type of asbestos or that live by factories that have it have been linked to lung problems and to tumors. The fibers in the asbestos are breathed in without a person knowing and therefore they may be exposed to it without ever finding out until they become ill.
Yet many in the construction industry aren't happy with the image that asbestos has gotten in society. They feel it is a very good material to use for many projects. They want to be able to use a less concentrate of it so there with be fewer fibers in place. They believe it can be a cheaper way to get the same benefits for their projects. However, with the health risks that have been identified it simply isn't going to happen.
As a result of the controversial issues with asbestos, fiberglass has replaced it for construction purposes. They also use organic fibers instead of the harmful asbestos to get the same results. Removing asbestos from buildings and replacing it with the new materials is very costly and time consuming. Those involved in the process have to wear a mask to help prevent the harmful fibers from getting into their bodies.
Some people have become so ill due to the exposure from asbestos that they are unable to go about their normal life. They have filed lawsuits against the companies in an effort to at least get their medical expenses covered. These types of cases can draw out in the courts for a very long time if the parties can't agree on a settlement.
What is Pleural Mesothelioma?
Pleural mesothelioma is a particularly aggressive and dangerous type of cancer. It is defined as a cancer of the lining that surrounds the lungs or chest cavity. There are two main reasons why it is so dangerous. It has a very long time between initial exposure to the causative agent, almost always asbestos, and the development of symptoms. This time span can often be decades long, and many times, a diagnosis is made too late for effective treatment. Additionally, once symptoms are present in such severity that a diagnosis is sought, the cancer has reached an advanced stage.
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma, but shares the primary cause of all other types. Asbestos is inhaled and collects inside the lungs. While most asbestos particles are eliminated by natural functions of the human body, individual fibers can migrate to the pleural lining, and initiate cancerous growth over the years. The full effects of pleural mesothelioma on society will take some time to figure, as the use of asbestos has been so widespread in preceding years.
The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are many, but are usually caused by one of three complications. The rapid growth of a malignant tumor on the pleural lining can put tremendous pressure on the lungs. In addition, fluid can often build up in between the pleural lining and the lungs as a result of tumor growth.
Symptoms specific to the above causes can include, but are certainly not limited to dry coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. The least significant of these symptoms, dry coughing has many causes and should generally only be considered specific to mesothelioma when other symptoms are present, or exposure to asbestos has been documented. Both chest pain and shortness of breath, however, can be indicative of many serious conditions, and should be assessed by a doctor promptly.
The third common cause for some of the more general symptoms is the body's attempt to fight the disease. These can include fever, inability to regulate the body's temperature and weight loss.
A number of screening options are available to your doctor in order to determine whether or not pleural mesothelioma is the cause of symptoms. These can include CAT scans, MRI and X-Rays. After the initial screening, if mesothelioma is still suspected, a biopsy will be performed to analyze the tissue in question. Again, there are different techniques the doctor can use in order to sample the tissue, depending on the circumstances. Generally, however, a biopsy is relatively non-invasive procedure where a piece of the tumor is removed from the patient and sent to lab. Specialists at the lab can then perform a number of different tests in order to determine the nature of the tissue.
Finally, with a positive identification as pleural mesothelioma, the doctor can then begin treatment. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgical removal of the cancerous areas, and clinical trials can all be utilized. The specific treatment option will generally be determined by the stage, or level of advancement, of the cancer.
While pleural mesothelioma is very treatable if caught at the earliest stages, this is often not the case due to the very general symptoms it produces. As the cancer advances into the later stages, treatment will primarily be focused on improving the patient's quality of life.
Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of mesothelioma, but shares the primary cause of all other types. Asbestos is inhaled and collects inside the lungs. While most asbestos particles are eliminated by natural functions of the human body, individual fibers can migrate to the pleural lining, and initiate cancerous growth over the years. The full effects of pleural mesothelioma on society will take some time to figure, as the use of asbestos has been so widespread in preceding years.
The symptoms of pleural mesothelioma are many, but are usually caused by one of three complications. The rapid growth of a malignant tumor on the pleural lining can put tremendous pressure on the lungs. In addition, fluid can often build up in between the pleural lining and the lungs as a result of tumor growth.
Symptoms specific to the above causes can include, but are certainly not limited to dry coughing, chest pain and shortness of breath. The least significant of these symptoms, dry coughing has many causes and should generally only be considered specific to mesothelioma when other symptoms are present, or exposure to asbestos has been documented. Both chest pain and shortness of breath, however, can be indicative of many serious conditions, and should be assessed by a doctor promptly.
The third common cause for some of the more general symptoms is the body's attempt to fight the disease. These can include fever, inability to regulate the body's temperature and weight loss.
A number of screening options are available to your doctor in order to determine whether or not pleural mesothelioma is the cause of symptoms. These can include CAT scans, MRI and X-Rays. After the initial screening, if mesothelioma is still suspected, a biopsy will be performed to analyze the tissue in question. Again, there are different techniques the doctor can use in order to sample the tissue, depending on the circumstances. Generally, however, a biopsy is relatively non-invasive procedure where a piece of the tumor is removed from the patient and sent to lab. Specialists at the lab can then perform a number of different tests in order to determine the nature of the tissue.
Finally, with a positive identification as pleural mesothelioma, the doctor can then begin treatment. Radiation therapy, chemotherapy, surgical removal of the cancerous areas, and clinical trials can all be utilized. The specific treatment option will generally be determined by the stage, or level of advancement, of the cancer.
While pleural mesothelioma is very treatable if caught at the earliest stages, this is often not the case due to the very general symptoms it produces. As the cancer advances into the later stages, treatment will primarily be focused on improving the patient's quality of life.
Compensation For Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma has received much publicity in recent years, due to the high number of lawsuits against companies involved with the use asbestos. Virtually all documented cases of mesothelioma stem from inhaling large amounts of asbestos material, and due to the prevalence of asbestos in many different applications, total compensation numbers have been staggering. So extensive were the number of lawsuits, the U.S. government has limited the amount of compensation one can receive, and also the conditions under which one can file a lawsuit.
Before the U.S. government passed The Fairness in Asbestos Compensation Act in 1999, one did not need to develop any signs of mesothelioma to begin litigation. One only needed to have worked in an environment where asbestos exposure occurred. Over 200,000 cases in the Federal Courts during that year alone prompted the government action. As a result, there must be a diagnosis of mesothelioma in order to file for compensation, and punitive damages are no longer awarded.
While it may seem that The Fairness in Asbestos Compensation Act was a blow to the rights of workers exposed to asbestos, in reality, it proved to be a positive for those legitimately filing to obtain compensation for mesothelioma. Because so many people were filing lawsuits where they had not actually developed mesothelioma (and therefore did not require compensation), insurance companies began to file for bankruptcy. This left those who had legitimate claims to compensation for mesothelioma without the necessary resources to fund their treatment.
The reasons why mesothelioma litigation can be difficult are twofold. First, the symptoms of this particular cancer are very non-specific, and therefore many times to not prompt those afflicted to seek medical attention as soon as they should. It can take decades to develop after the initial exposure to asbestos, but after the onset of the disease, the patient's condition can deteriorate rapidly. Second, in most states, there is a specific deadline by which you must initiate litigation involving compensation for mesothelioma that begins on the day of diagnosis.
Another aspect of mesothelioma compensation is often more difficult to face. When a relative of someone diagnosed with mesothelioma dies as a result of the cancer, a wrongful death lawsuit may be filed. Generally, the primary action that an attorney will perform to prove wrongful death will be interviewing fellow employees of the deceased, as well as supervisors and other people affiliated with the company that exposed him/her to asbestos.
Actual figures can vary wildly, depending on factors such as length and severity of exposure to asbestos, the stage of the mesothelioma, applicable state laws, and of course the goals of the person filing the lawsuit. Generally speaking, however, compensation for mesothelioma ranges between one and three million dollars, minus a contingency fee for the attorney. This fee can, of course, vary also, but usually falls between 30% and 40% of the total compensation.
Before the U.S. government passed The Fairness in Asbestos Compensation Act in 1999, one did not need to develop any signs of mesothelioma to begin litigation. One only needed to have worked in an environment where asbestos exposure occurred. Over 200,000 cases in the Federal Courts during that year alone prompted the government action. As a result, there must be a diagnosis of mesothelioma in order to file for compensation, and punitive damages are no longer awarded.
While it may seem that The Fairness in Asbestos Compensation Act was a blow to the rights of workers exposed to asbestos, in reality, it proved to be a positive for those legitimately filing to obtain compensation for mesothelioma. Because so many people were filing lawsuits where they had not actually developed mesothelioma (and therefore did not require compensation), insurance companies began to file for bankruptcy. This left those who had legitimate claims to compensation for mesothelioma without the necessary resources to fund their treatment.
The reasons why mesothelioma litigation can be difficult are twofold. First, the symptoms of this particular cancer are very non-specific, and therefore many times to not prompt those afflicted to seek medical attention as soon as they should. It can take decades to develop after the initial exposure to asbestos, but after the onset of the disease, the patient's condition can deteriorate rapidly. Second, in most states, there is a specific deadline by which you must initiate litigation involving compensation for mesothelioma that begins on the day of diagnosis.
Another aspect of mesothelioma compensation is often more difficult to face. When a relative of someone diagnosed with mesothelioma dies as a result of the cancer, a wrongful death lawsuit may be filed. Generally, the primary action that an attorney will perform to prove wrongful death will be interviewing fellow employees of the deceased, as well as supervisors and other people affiliated with the company that exposed him/her to asbestos.
Actual figures can vary wildly, depending on factors such as length and severity of exposure to asbestos, the stage of the mesothelioma, applicable state laws, and of course the goals of the person filing the lawsuit. Generally speaking, however, compensation for mesothelioma ranges between one and three million dollars, minus a contingency fee for the attorney. This fee can, of course, vary also, but usually falls between 30% and 40% of the total compensation.
Saturday, August 30, 2008
FAQ's About Mesothelioma and Answers From a Mesothelioma Attorney
Question: Are certain individuals more likely to develop illness from exposure to asbestos?
Answer: Yes. There is an increased risk of developing asbestos-related illness if a person worked in an industry requiring constant, prolonged exposure. These individuals include many factory and construction workers, as well as ship builders, miners, automotive brake mechanics, and anyone else who worked with insulation materials.
There is no level of harmless exposure to asbestos. Even small doses can cause illness that becomes manifest many years later. Yet, some who worked around asbestos never develop illness. While some scientists believe that certain individuals are genetically more able to withstand exposure, no one has been able to identify an asbestos-resistant gene.
Question: Asbestos has not been widely used since the 1970's. How can there be any current risk of asbestos exposure?
Answer: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that over 700,000 public buildings in this country still contain asbestos. This number includes approximately one in ten existing school buildings. Thus, the threat posed by asbestos exposure continues to haunt innocent citizens.
Question: My exposure to asbestos happened years ago. Have I run out of time to make a claim?
Answer: This is an important question. In asbestos cases, the Statute of Limitations, or time limit for making a legal claim, depends on the state in which you live. Your time to make a claim certainly starts to run, once a doctor diagnoses you with an illness. For that reason, talk with a Michigan asbestos lawyer about your rights immediately.
Question: I do not have mesothelioma, but I have been diagnosed with another form of cancer, and I was exposed to asbestos. Could the cancer be related to asbestos exposure?
Answer: Just as asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, there are also studies that link asbestos exposure to increased risk of other cancers, including cancer of the colon, kidney, larynx, pancreas, and esophagus. If you believe asbestos played a role in your illness, you should consult a doctor and contact a Michigan asbestos lawyer today.
Question: I know that the company where I used to work has declared bankruptcy, supposedly due to asbestos litigation. Should I even bother to pursue a claim?
Answer: Many law firms are fighting to challenge bankruptcies that corporations try to use as a shield against financial exposure to asbestos claims. You should talk to a Michigan asbestos lawyer by submitting a free, confidential consultation form today to determine the status of claims against the particular company that you believe is responsible for your illness.
Question: What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?
Answer: Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the chest cavity and involves the lungs. It is the more common form of mesothelioma cancer. Its symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and perhaps rapid weight loss or persistent fever. Because these early problems may indicate other illnesses, a doctor may have difficulty making the initial diagnosis. If you are experiencing these symptoms and believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, you should notify your health care provider immediately.
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma progresses more rapidly and is more deadly. However, early diagnosis and an individual's response to treatment are important factors in combating the disease. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the lower extremities. Individual symptoms vary and may not all be present. If you are experiencing these problems and were exposed to asbestos in the past, you should see your family physician.
Question: Does mesothelioma always mean cancer?
Answer: In very rare circumstances, it is possible to have a benign (non-cancerous) form of mesothelioma, which is known as cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum. But in most instances, mesothelioma is a malignant disease.
Question: Just because I worked with asbestos, does that really mean that I am at higher risk of mesothelioma and other illnesses?
Answer: Unfortunately, a report in the New England Journal of Medicine indicated that asbestos workers were 344 times more likely to die from mesothelioma than the average population. Other studies also show a clear connection between asbestos exposure and serious illness.
If you or a loved one suffer from asbestos related cancer or mesothelioma cancer, talk with an experienced Michigan asbestos lawyer today.
Attorney Marya Sieminski joined the Law Offices of Sam Bernstein in 2003. She is admitted to practice law in Michigan state courts and in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated magna cum laude from Wayne State University Law School. Marya has worked as a trial lawyer for 10 years and exclusively represented victims in personal injury litigation and in workers compensation claims. She also was appointed by the Governor to serve on the State of Michigan Workers Compensation Qualifications Advisory Committee.
Answer: Yes. There is an increased risk of developing asbestos-related illness if a person worked in an industry requiring constant, prolonged exposure. These individuals include many factory and construction workers, as well as ship builders, miners, automotive brake mechanics, and anyone else who worked with insulation materials.
There is no level of harmless exposure to asbestos. Even small doses can cause illness that becomes manifest many years later. Yet, some who worked around asbestos never develop illness. While some scientists believe that certain individuals are genetically more able to withstand exposure, no one has been able to identify an asbestos-resistant gene.
Question: Asbestos has not been widely used since the 1970's. How can there be any current risk of asbestos exposure?
Answer: The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that over 700,000 public buildings in this country still contain asbestos. This number includes approximately one in ten existing school buildings. Thus, the threat posed by asbestos exposure continues to haunt innocent citizens.
Question: My exposure to asbestos happened years ago. Have I run out of time to make a claim?
Answer: This is an important question. In asbestos cases, the Statute of Limitations, or time limit for making a legal claim, depends on the state in which you live. Your time to make a claim certainly starts to run, once a doctor diagnoses you with an illness. For that reason, talk with a Michigan asbestos lawyer about your rights immediately.
Question: I do not have mesothelioma, but I have been diagnosed with another form of cancer, and I was exposed to asbestos. Could the cancer be related to asbestos exposure?
Answer: Just as asbestos exposure increases the risk of lung cancer, there are also studies that link asbestos exposure to increased risk of other cancers, including cancer of the colon, kidney, larynx, pancreas, and esophagus. If you believe asbestos played a role in your illness, you should consult a doctor and contact a Michigan asbestos lawyer today.
Question: I know that the company where I used to work has declared bankruptcy, supposedly due to asbestos litigation. Should I even bother to pursue a claim?
Answer: Many law firms are fighting to challenge bankruptcies that corporations try to use as a shield against financial exposure to asbestos claims. You should talk to a Michigan asbestos lawyer by submitting a free, confidential consultation form today to determine the status of claims against the particular company that you believe is responsible for your illness.
Question: What is the difference between pleural mesothelioma and peritoneal mesothelioma?
Answer: Pleural mesothelioma occurs in the chest cavity and involves the lungs. It is the more common form of mesothelioma cancer. Its symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, and perhaps rapid weight loss or persistent fever. Because these early problems may indicate other illnesses, a doctor may have difficulty making the initial diagnosis. If you are experiencing these symptoms and believe you may have been exposed to asbestos, you should notify your health care provider immediately.
Peritoneal mesothelioma develops in the abdominal cavity. This form of mesothelioma progresses more rapidly and is more deadly. However, early diagnosis and an individual's response to treatment are important factors in combating the disease. The symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include nausea, vomiting, and swelling of the lower extremities. Individual symptoms vary and may not all be present. If you are experiencing these problems and were exposed to asbestos in the past, you should see your family physician.
Question: Does mesothelioma always mean cancer?
Answer: In very rare circumstances, it is possible to have a benign (non-cancerous) form of mesothelioma, which is known as cystic mesothelioma of the peritoneum. But in most instances, mesothelioma is a malignant disease.
Question: Just because I worked with asbestos, does that really mean that I am at higher risk of mesothelioma and other illnesses?
Answer: Unfortunately, a report in the New England Journal of Medicine indicated that asbestos workers were 344 times more likely to die from mesothelioma than the average population. Other studies also show a clear connection between asbestos exposure and serious illness.
If you or a loved one suffer from asbestos related cancer or mesothelioma cancer, talk with an experienced Michigan asbestos lawyer today.
Attorney Marya Sieminski joined the Law Offices of Sam Bernstein in 2003. She is admitted to practice law in Michigan state courts and in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Michigan. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and graduated magna cum laude from Wayne State University Law School. Marya has worked as a trial lawyer for 10 years and exclusively represented victims in personal injury litigation and in workers compensation claims. She also was appointed by the Governor to serve on the State of Michigan Workers Compensation Qualifications Advisory Committee.
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