Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that is caused by the inhalation of asbestos, which is a naturally-occurring mineral that was once widely used due to the material's heat- and fire-resistant abilities. Regulations, however, have since been passed largely prohibiting the use of asbestos because research has revealed that individuals who come into contact with the substance can develop mesothelioma, as well as other deadly diseases.
Individuals with a long history of exposure to asbestos are at the greatest risk of developing a deadly condition. Infrequent or even one-time exposure to asbestos, however, can also lead to mesothelioma.
Many mesothelioma victims are men because the material was widely used in a number of male-dominated industries, including construction sites, factories, power plants, shipyards, and mills.
Women who have worked in similar occupations are also at great risk of being diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Other times, the family members of workers who were exposed to asbestos can be diagnosed with the condition as a result of second-hand exposure.
No matter the exact cause of your diagnosis, an experienced attorney at the Throneberry Law Group has substantial experience in helping to determine the cause of asbestos exposure. We can help determine the details surrounding your case even if the exposure occurred years ago.
How Mesothelioma Develops
Mesothelioma can develop due to DNA damage caused by asbestos fibers. In many cases, after a person inhales asbestos, it is difficult for a person's body to remove the fibers, which instead become lodged in tissues. Following many years of being lodged in a person's body, these fibers can lead to mesothelioma and a number of other deadly conditions.
Mesothelioma begins in a person's mesothelial cells, which comprise the protective part of the mesothelium that covers a person's abdomen, heart, and lungs.
Some of the ways in which mesothelioma is known to develop include:
- Inflamed cells, which can be irritated by asbestos fibers and result in irreversible scarring as well as cellular damage
- Fibers from asbestos can enter mesothelial cells and interfere with a person's life cycle, which in turn cause genetic changes that result in cancer
- Asbestos can sometimes cause healthy cells to mutate and become cancerous
- Fibers from asbestos trigger the production of oncoproteins, which block genes that protect cells from uncontrollable growth
Preventing and Detecting Mesothelioma
There are several methods that can be used to protect oneself from asbestos exposure.
The best way to prevent mesothelioma is to adhere to workplace safety recommendations. It is also helpful to remain cautious of old homes, which might contain asbestos.
If you believe that a previous position exposed you to asbestos, you should seek a medical examination to check for signs of asbestos exposure.
Take Immediate Action Now
Following a mesothelioma diagnosis, you should not hesitate to receive treatment, which will both prolong your life as well as help control pain.
The Throneberry Law Group has substantial experience helping mesothelioma victims and can help connect you with a medical professional. In addition to making sure that you receive the medical treatment you deserve, we can also help you fight for compensation.
Behind our legal approach is a principal attorney who, after losing his own father-in-law to the condition in 2004, understands first-hand just how traumatic a mesothelioma diagnosis can be.
Contact our law office today by calling 480-605-4967 or schedule a free initial consultation with us online.