Mesothelioma Resources and Support
Get the Facts You Need
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive form of cancer linked to prolonged exposure to asbestos, a toxic mineral once widely used in construction and manufacturing. Often diagnosed decades after initial exposure, mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the protective linings of the lungs, abdomen, or heart.
Who is at risk?
Each year, more than 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma. The disease primarily affects individuals aged 55 and older, with men being diagnosed more often than women. Certain occupations and environments increase mesothelioma risk. People exposed to asbestos fibers at work or home are the most vulnerable.
Construction Workers
Exposure in insulation, drywall, |roofing.
Shipyard Workers
Asbestos used in ship insulation.
Factory Workers
Industrial machinery contained asbestos.
Types of
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma can develop in different parts of the body. The type of mesothelioma determines symptoms, treatment options, and prognosis.
Pleural Mesothelioma
Lungs - 75% of Cases
- Develops in the pleura, the lung lining.
- Symptoms: Shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough, fluid buildup (pleural effusion).
- Causes: Inhaling asbestos fibers that scar lung tissues.
- Prognosis: Median survival is 12-24 months with treatment.
- Develops in the pleura, the lung lining.
- Symptoms: Shortness of breath, chest pain, chronic cough, fluid buildup (pleural effusion).
- Causes: Inhaling asbestos fibers that scar lung tissues.
- Prognosis: Median survival is 12-24 months with treatment.
Peritoneal Mesothelioma
Abdomen - 15-20% of Cases
- Affects the peritoneum, the abdominal lining.
- Symptoms: Severe bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss.
- Causes: Ingesting asbestos fibers, which become embedded in the digestive tract.
- Prognosis: Better survival rates than pleural, 5-year survival up to 50% with surgery.
- Affects the peritoneum, the abdominal lining.
- Symptoms: Severe bloating, abdominal pain, nausea, weight loss.
- Causes: Ingesting asbestos fibers, which become embedded in the digestive tract.
- Prognosis: Better survival rates than pleural, 5-year survival up to 50% with surgery.
Pericardial Mesothelioma
Heart - Less than 1% of Cases
- Develops in the pericardium, the heart lining.
- Symptoms: Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fluid buildup around the heart.
- Causes: Exact cause unclear, but asbestos exposure plays a role.
- Prognosis: Extremely poor; most cases are diagnosed posthumously.
- Develops in the pericardium, the heart lining.
- Symptoms: Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, fluid buildup around the heart.
- Causes: Exact cause unclear, but asbestos exposure plays a role.
- Prognosis: Extremely poor; most cases are diagnosed posthumously.
Testicular Mesothelioma
Testicles - Rarest Form
- Develops in the tunica vaginalis, the lining of the testicles.
- Symptoms: Swelling, lumps in the testicles, fluid buildup.
- Causes: Asbestos exposure, though unclear how fibers reach this area.
- Prognosis: Best survival rate, often treated successfully with surgery
- Develops in the tunica vaginalis, the lining of the testicles.
- Symptoms: Swelling, lumps in the testicles, fluid buildup.
- Causes: Asbestos exposure, though unclear how fibers reach this area.
- Prognosis: Best survival rate, often treated successfully with surgery
Common Symptoms
Persistent Chest Pain
Chronic Cough
Severe Bloating
Abdominal Pain
Unexplained Tiredness
Swelling & Lumps in the Testicles
Fluid Buildup
Risk Factors
Prolonged asbestos exposure
Living near asbestos sites
Secondhand exposure from workers
Rare genetic or radiation links
Common Causes
Asbestos Exposure
Environmental Exposure from Air or Soil
Contaminated talc products
Contaminated clothing
Important:
If you have been exposed to asbestos or experience any of these symptoms, please consult a medical professional immediately for proper diagnosis and treatment.
A mesothelioma diagnosis comes with overwhelming financial burdens. The costs associated with hospital visits, surgeries, chemotherapy, and other treatments can quickly add up. Many victims are also unable to work due to their illness, leading to lost wages that further strain their families.
Frequently
asked questions
How do I know if I qualify for a mesothelioma lawsuit?
If you or a loved one has mesothelioma from asbestos exposure, you may be eligible. Key factors include your work history, exposure sources, and medical records.
What compensation can I receive for a mesothelioma case?
You may receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain, suffering, and wrongful death claims.
How long do I have to file a mesothelioma claim?
The time limit to file a lawsuit depends on your states statute of limitations. Typically, it ranges from 1 to 5 years after diagnosis. Its best to act fast and consult a legal expert.
What happens after I submit my case for review?
Our legal team will assess your eligibility and connect you with a mesothelioma attorney then guide you through the process with no upfront cost.