Mesothelioma

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma, or malignant mesothelioma, is a type of cancer that develops from the protective lining that covers many of the body's internal organs, the mesothelium and is usually caused by having been exposed to asbestos.

For the most part those who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos and glass particles, or they have been exposed to asbestos dust and fiber in other ways.

Those who have been exposed to asbestos often utilize attorneys to collect damages for asbestos-related disease, including mesothelioma. Compensation via asbestos funds or lawsuits is an important issue in law practices regarding mesothelioma.

Doctors divide mesothelioma into different types based on what part of the mesothelium is affected. Mesothelioma most often affects the tissue that surrounds the lungs (pleura). This type is called pleural malignant mesothelioma. Other, rarer types of mesothelioma affect tissue in the abdomen, around the heart and around the testicles.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive and deadly form of cancer. Mesothelioma treatments are available, but for many people with mesothelioma, a cure is not possible. Instead, treatment for mesothelioma is often focused on keeping you as comfortable as possible.

Asbestos is a mineral that's found naturally in the environment. Asbestos fibers are strong and resistant to heat, making them useful in a wide variety of applications, such as in insulation, brakes, shingles, flooring and many other products.

When asbestos is broken up, such as during the mining process or when removing asbestos insulation, dust may be created. If the dust is inhaled or swallowed, the asbestos fibers will settle in the lungs or in the stomach, where they can cause irritation that may lead to mesothelioma, though how exactly this happens isn't understood. It can take 20 to 40 years or more for mesothelioma to develop as a result of asbestos exposure.

Some people with years of asbestos exposure never develop mesothelioma. And yet, others with very brief exposure develop the disease. This indicates that other factors may be involved in determining whether someone gets mesothelioma or doesn't. For instance, you could inherit a predisposition to cancer or some other condition could increase your risk.

Who has the right to file for compensation for mesothelioma?

A mesothelioma lawsuit can be filed by a person who has developed mesothelioma through exposure to asbestos. If the person has passed away, the lawsuit can be filed by a family member or the executor of the deceased’s estate in addition a lawsuit can also be filed by any family member who has developed the disease due to close contact with the person who was exposed to asbestos. The vast majority of mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means that they do not take any money from you up-front. And if your case is unsuccessful they will not take any money from you at all. You only have to pay the lawyer if and when you receive compensation. Your lawyer will then be entitled to a percentage of the compensation.

Will Health Insurance cover Mesothelioma and is there additional Financial Help and Compensation for Mesothelioma

There is no simple answer to this; it depends on the type of health insurance plan you have and coverage limits and if it is private health insurance - when you purchased it - since many insurance plans have a waiting period before complete coverage exists. You must find out if you have coverage for mesothelioma expenses on your existing insurance plan and if you do, is the coverage enough to cover your expenses. The largest amounts of compensation typically available can be recovered from the asbestos industry itself. Patients can also file a disability claim with social security. It’s advisable to consult with an attorney that specializes in such claims and in general to hire an attorney who specialty is mesothelioma law suits. Many people can also file a disability claim if they have disability insurance either privately, through their employer, or as part of a life insurance policy. If asbestos exposure occurred on the job, in addition to claims against the asbestos industry, a worker’s compensation claim or other types of legal action may be filed against an employer. No matter what the bottom line is to hire an expert attorney with this and there are numerous attorneys throughout the U.S. that have made this the focus of their practice.

Need additional information regarding this disease? Visit the National Cancer Institute Website for helpful information.