Mesothelioma and Asbestos: Frequently Asked Questions

If you've been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may feel panic, fear and confusion. Luckily, there is much information available about mesothelioma and its symptoms, effects, and long-term causes. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about mesothelioma:

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer. It affects the cells that line the abdomen, lungs and heart.

How is mesothelioma contracted?

Mesothelioma is contracted through exposure to asbestos, usually in an industrial setting.

How common is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare disease. Every year, approximately 3,000 Americans and 10,000 patients worldwide are diagnosed with mesothelioma.

What is asbestos? How is it linked to mesothelioma?

Asbestos is an industrial agent used for insulation and fireproofing since ancient times. While its use is stringently regulated in the United States at this time, its dangers were not known until relatively recently. A fibrous mineral, asbestos is used in industrial applications and releases tiny fibers into the air that may be inhaled. Inhalation of asbestos can lead to mesothelioma in some patients.

What is the mesothelium?

The mesothelium is the lining of the human abdominal cavity, chest and heart.

How many mesothelioma victims have been exposed to asbestos?

Medical professionals estimate that at least 75 percent of all mesothelioma cases are linked to asbestos exposure.

Does mesothelioma present itself immediately after asbestos exposure?

Mesothelioma is known for its long dormancy period. The disease has appeared in patients decades after their exposure to asbestos. Misdiagnosis is common, with mesothelioma being mistaken as pneumonia or other diseases.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

Symptoms of mesothelioma include abdominal pain and swelling, chest pain, chronic cough, heart palpitations, blood clotting problems, labored breath or shortness of breath, fever, and weight loss.

What professions are at risk for mesothelioma?

Repeated asbestos exposure has put a number of professions at risk for mesothelioma. These include bricklayers, construction workers, electricians, painters, carpenters, insulators, mechanics, and tradespeople, especially those who were involved in commercial or home construction before the 1970s.

I contracted mesothelioma from industrial exposure. What are my legal options?

You do have legal options as a mesothelioma victim. The best route is to consult with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, who can help evaluate your potential lawsuit and tell you whether you might qualify for compensation or settlements to pay for your mesothelioma-related medical care. A competent mesothelioma lawyer is just a click away with LegalView's free, confidential referral system -- just click on the case evaluation form on the top of this page for more details.

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