Mesothelioma is a rare, aggressive form of cancer that affects the mesothelium – a protective lining that covers many of the body’s internal organs. In most cases, mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos fibers become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen or heart, causing genetic cell mutations and tumor growth over 10-50 years after exposure.

Symptoms vary depending on where the cancer develops, but can include shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal swelling and pain, heart palpitations, unexplained weight loss, fever, fatigue, and anemia. Since these symptoms mirror other illnesses, mesothelioma is often misdiagnosed initially.

Doctors use various tests to diagnose mesothelioma, including imaging scans, biopsies of fluid or tissue samples, bloodwork, and a thorough review of the patient’s medical and exposure history. It often takes multiple tests and specialist referrals to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis.

What are the treatment options for mesothelioma?

Treatment options include surgery to remove cancerous tissue, chemotherapy drugs to kill cancer cells, radiation therapy to shrink tumors, clinical trials testing new drugs, and emerging immunotherapies. Multimodal therapy using a combination of these treatments is most common. The treatment plan depends on the type and stage of cancer.

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Exposure to asbestos is the main cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos was used heavily in construction, shipbuilding and various industries through the 1970s due to its heat resistance and durability. However, asbestos breaks down into tiny fibers that lodge in body tissues after being inhaled, eventually resulting in cell mutations and mesothelioma.

People exposed to asbestos particles through their occupations are most at risk, including construction workers, electricians, shipyard workers, auto mechanics, and other industrial jobs. However, asbestos exposure was also common in homes, schools and public buildings before safety regulations, putting many people at risk through environmental exposure.

Yes. If you developed mesothelioma cancer as a direct result of negligent asbestos exposure, you can pursue legal action and compensation through a mesothelioma lawsuit. Your own smoking history does not excuse companies from accountability for exposing you to the proven carcinogen asbestos, which directly causes mesothelioma.

You may be able to claim both economic and non-economic damages, including medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, loss of consortium, funeral expenses, and wrongful death damages. Experienced mesothelioma lawyers can help determine what compensation you may be entitled to based on the details of your unique case.

The average mesothelioma settlement varies substantially based on many factors, but many are in the millions. In large class action suits against asbestos companies, settlement trust funds have totaled in the billions. Individual claims rely heavily on the victim’s medical expenses, lost income, and other damages. Experienced lawyers can estimate potential settlement amounts.

A qualified mesothelioma law firm has the resources and specialized experience to handle your case from start to finish. This includes reviewing your case, gathering evidence, filing claims, negotiating with insurers, taking legal action if needed, and getting you the maximum compensation you deserve. Mesothelioma lawyers also provide support throughout your treatment.

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The mesothelioma lawyers in Missouri at Braver Law help victims recover substantial settlements. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help fight for the compensation you deserve for your suffering. Call or chat with us now to get your questions answered.

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