If you are dealing with a frightening new diagnosis of mesothelioma, the decision to put your case in our hands can help ease the burden of financial worries due to job loss, expensive treatment, or future planning for your loved ones.
At Danziger & De Llano, we know that finding an experienced, vigilant mesothelioma attorney could be one of the most important decisions you ever make. With more than two decades of experience filing mesothelioma lawsuits for clients, we have firsthand knowledge of what it takes to be successful.
What is Mesothelioma?
The cancer commonly referred to as “mesothelioma” is actually called malignant mesothelioma. Inside the body, there are mesothelial cells in the lining around the chest, abdomen, and heart. The lining itself, called the mesothelium, creates a special fluid, which helps the organs move. When cancerous (or malignant) tumors form in the mesothelium, the clinical diagnosis is malignant mesothelioma.
What Causes Mesothelioma?
There are several known risk factors which can increase the chance of developing mesothelioma. The most common risk factors are exposure to asbestos, zeolite, radiation, and SV40 (Simian Virus 40; age; and gender.
Asbestos and Mesothelioma
The most common cause or risk factor leading to mesothelioma is workplace exposure to asbestos. Frequently used in insulation and fireproof products such as ironing board covers and gloves, asbestos has a great deal of fire and heat resistance.
Although production of asbestos for use in home insulation and manufacturing have declined significantly since 1989, many people had already been exposed. In the workplace, numerous people were exposed: ship builders, construction and railroad workers, miners, and insulation manufacturers and installers. And, because workers brought the asbestos fibers home on their clothing, their families, friends, and loved ones were also exposed.
Mesothelioma Symptoms and Progression
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary, depending on the location of the cancer. Those with pleural mesothelioma (located in the chest) may have: lower back pain, fatigue, weight loss, fever, sweating, trouble swallowing, hoarseness, and cough.
Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma (located in the belly) may experience: swelling or fluid in the belly, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, and weight loss.
The progression of mesothelioma is very slow. After the first exposure, it can take anywhere from 25 to 50 years for mesothelioma to develop. Even though ending the exposure to asbestos can decrease the chances of developing mesothelioma, it doesn’t mean the disease won’t develop later. Once a person has been exposed to asbestos, there is always a risk they could develop mesothelioma, even decades later.
Mesothelioma Treatments
Mesothelioma is a rather rare form of cancer, making it more difficult for doctors and scientists to effectively compare treatments. Adding to this complex disease is the fact that many doctors have little or no experience with it, leading most of them to refer patients to large specialty clinics or hospitals that are better equipped to deal with it.
As with many forms of cancer, there is no known ‘cure’. However, depending upon the stage and progression of the disease when it is discovered, treatment may be somewhat effective.
Some of the common types of treatment for mesothelioma include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, or a combination thereof. Because mesothelioma does not grow as a single tumor or mass, it is more difficult to treat with just radiation or surgery. Chemotherapy can aid in treatment, but is not guaranteed.
Mesothelioma Trust Fund
Because of the successful court cases filed against asbestos manufacturers, there is a Mesothelioma Trust Fund in place for those who have developed the disease. This trust fund was set up by the asbestos manufacturers who may be liable (responsible) to those who have been harmed by their products.
Before the mesothelioma settlement trust fund was established, each company was at risk for bankruptcy, if a jury gave a large award to those suffering from the disease. Now, these manufacturers put money into the fund, which is maintained for those who may need to file a claim in the future.
Even if you were exposed to asbestos several decades ago, you may have a valid claim against the Mesothelioma Trust Fund. Because research has proven mesothelioma may take up to 50 years to develop, claimant rights may extend well beyond the normal expectancy for a typical lawsuit. If you were ever exposed to asbestos at your workplace or home, it could be very beneficial to file a claim.
A Lawyer for Your Mesothelioma Lawsuit
It is extremely important to hire a mesothelioma lawyer with experience in getting mesothelioma compensation for their clients. The ideal attorney would have experience gathering medical records, investigating claims, and uncovering vital information necessary to prove your case. Here at Danziger & De Llano, we consider your case a top priority, providing you with thorough, competent representation.
Contact our offices today, either by phone or using our online form, for a free consultation. Once we receive your information, our professional staff will set an appointment for you to meet with an attorney, who can explain your rights and guide you through the process.
