For many people, the mention of the words, “lung cancer,” instill more than just fear in their hearts. Most people have a clear association between the onset of lung cancer with smoking. In fact, that’s often the first question that is asked of a person if lung cancer is suspected or diagnosed.
Dig Deeper to Discover the Realities
As Vogelzang Law points out, though, scratching beneath the surface of a lung cancer diagnosis quickly brings up other possibilities such as environmental factors. One such factor that continues to garner a great deal of attention because of its devastating effects is asbestos.
Mesothelioma: The Asbestos Cancer
Though the presence of mesothelioma, the lung cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos, is considered to be rare, its effects are devastating to the person who suffers from it as well as his or her family and close friends. One reason for its devastation is because the symptoms of this aggressive form of cancer often go unnoticed for up to 50 years after the individual has been exposed to asbestos.
Like many other serious illnesses, the presence of mesothelioma often triggers symptoms that are consistent with other conditions. This can lead to a delay in a diagnosis that can allow the cancer to grow unabated without the person in question even being aware of it.
With the average of diagnosis being 69 years of age and an estimated 11 million people having been exposed to the deadly mineral between 1940 and 1978, the effects on the individual, as well as society, can be crushing. Indeed, it’s estimated that a staggering 2,000 to 3,000 people will be diagnosed with this incurable cancer each year.
While lung cancer is the most well-researched side effect of asbestos exposure, a causal link to other cancers such as colorectal and gastrointestinal, cannot be ruled out. Research is ongoing to ensure that the individuals who were exposed to deadly asbestos have the best possible options for treatment and recourse.
If you or a loved one suspects asbestos exposure, it’s important to get expert legal advice now. Doing so can not only protect your rights now but can also ensure that your future needs are considered.
