Mesothelioma is cancer in tissues around the lung that is almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a chemical product that has been used for decades in buildings, ships, and machining because it is heat-resistant and fire-resistant. After World War II, its use increased significantly with the improvement of the economy. For years, this product was considered ideal to work with as it kept buildings safe.
However, it doesn’t anymore, now that we know this product is causing deadly cancer. Find out here who is at risk for this asbestos-related cancer, and what compensation is available to workers exposed to this chemical.
Who Is Most At Risk of Mesothelioma?
Most cases of mesothelioma occur from exposure in the workplace, although if you live in a home with asbestos, you will be at risk. Generally speaking, we are all at risk of asbestos exposure, because it really is everywhere.
It is prolonged inhalation of asbestos and repeated exposure that causes cancer. Workers in the following fields are at risk of mesothelioma:
- Construction work
- Firefighters
- Insulators
- Plumbers
- Service members — asbestos products are found in every branch of the United States military
- Auto repair and maintenance shops
- School workers
- Workers in government buildings
Kinds of Asbestos Exposure
There are two kinds of asbestos exposure. There is direct and frequent exposure and exposure that is indirect and even incidental.
Workers in mines, construction, and shipyards, will be victims of direct and frequent exposure. Those that are in work where they move departments frequently or travel to different locations, maybe victims of the more indirect and incidental exposure.
People that live in homes with asbestos would have indirect exposure as well unless they are conducting home improvement jobs and tearing down walls or boiler seals that would disrupt the integrity of asbestos products.
Members of the military comprise the highest group of patients of mesothelioma because they experience frequent incidents of asbestos exposure. The asbestos is found in products supplied to the military, not by the military. Companies that make these products then would be the organizations responsible for the asbestos exposure.
Asbestos exposure of any kind puts workers and homeowners at risk of mesothelioma. There is no determination as to how much one needs to be exposed to in order to get cancer. As a result, many companies have developed trust funds to compensate victims of mesothelioma. Those that haven’t, can still be sued. The Simmons Law Firm for example has spent decades settling awards for mesothelioma victims, with some settlements going as high as $30 million.
Book a Free Consultation
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma, you are a victim of asbestos exposure. You may be eligible for compensation. Book a free consultation with a mesothelioma lawyer today to see if you qualify. This cancer places a preventable financial burden on your family. One free consultation may get you closer to the little relief that you are looking for.