In the 1970's, asbestos was connected with adverse health effects, including lung cancer. It is now listed as a human carcinogen, alongside other dangerous substances such as tobacco. Unfortunately, many employers failed to warn their workers about asbestos exposure or to provide proper provisions for protection. Now, many former workers are paying the price for that negligence.
Our firm believes those responsible should be held financially accountable. If you were diagnosed with lung cancer and you believe your diagnosis is related to asbestos exposure, please contact our national asbestos attorneys at BCH for a free consultation.
Call today at (713) 909-7910
Understanding Lung Cancer Caused by Asbestos Exposure
Lung cancer from asbestos is a serious condition that can develop years after the initial exposure. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can lodge deep in the lung tissue, causing irritation, inflammation, and eventually cancer mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer. Over time, even years or decades after exposure, asbestos irritation can lead to scarring and tissue damage in the lungs.
Workers in trades like construction, shipyard operations, and manufacturing faced high levels of asbestos exposure, often without being warned. Even today, people can be exposed through aging buildings and products.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance that was used in production and manufacturing for many years before its link with dangerous health conditions was exposed. After the dangers of asbestos were confirmed in the 1970s, the United States government began to regulate asbestos use.
Where Is Asbestos Found?
Workers who may have been exposed to asbestos include:
- Boilermakers
- Kiln workers
- Chemical workers
- Roofers
- Welders
- Electricians
- Aircraft mechanics
- Automobile mechanics
- Carpenters
- Lab analysts / lab technicians
- Custodians
- Warehouse workers
- Chemical plant workers
- Pipefitters
- Shipyard workers
- United States military personnel
- Sheet metal workers
- Railroad car mechanics / rebuilders
- Rubber workers including tire makers
- Insulators
The Long-Term Impact of Asbestos Exposure
The symptoms of asbestos exposure often don't appear until 10 to 40 years later. This long latency period makes early detection difficult. Symptoms may include chronic cough, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. Unfortunately, many cases of mesothelioma lung cancer or asbestos lung cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage.
In addition to lung cancer, asbestos can also cause:
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Mesothelioma – A rare, aggressive cancer of the lung or abdominal lining
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Asbestosis – Scarring and thickening of lung tissue
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Pleural plaques – Thickened areas in the lung lining that indicate exposure
If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to monitor your health closely and seek medical attention if you develop any symptoms.
What is the Prognosis for Lung Cancer Caused by Asbsetos?
Lung cancer caused by asbestos is often aggressive. The average life expectancy for those with asbestos-related lung cancer is 16.2 months. However, the prognosis for lung cancer caused by asbestos depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and the extent of asbestos exposure.
Treatment options for asbestos-related lung cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, among others. However, because the cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage or when it has already metastasized, these treatments may not always be effective at treating the disease. However, early detection and treatment can improve the chances of survival and quality of life.
Legal Options for Victims of Asbestos Cancer
If you’ve been diagnosed with asbestos-related lung cancer or lost a loved one to this preventable disease, legal action may provide financial support. An asbestos lung cancer lawsuit can help cover:
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Medical expenses
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Lost income
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Pain and suffering
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Funeral costs (in wrongful death cases)
At Bailey Cowan Heckaman, our national asbestos attorneys have helped many families pursue justice. We are prepared to investigate your exposure history, build a strong case, and hold the responsible companies accountable.
Get Counsel Regarding Your Asbestos Lung Cancer Case
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness or your family has lost a loved one, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced asbestos lawsuit attorney from Bailey Cowan Heckaman can help you determine if you have a case and, if so, what your legal options are.
While each case is different, an attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team has experience handling these types of cases, and we can help you take the right steps to protect your future.
Call today at (713) 909-7910 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.
FAQs: Asbestos Exposure and Lung Cancer
How long does asbestos take to cause lung cancer?
It can take 10 to 40 years after exposure for asbestos-related cancer to develop.
What is the life expectancy for asbestos-related lung cancer?
The average life expectancy is around 16.2 months, but early diagnosis can improve outcomes.
What are common asbestos exposure symptoms?
Symptoms include coughing, chest pain, and shortness of breath, often mistaken for other conditions.
Can asbestos cause other diseases besides lung cancer?
Yes. It can also cause mesothelioma, asbestosis, and pleural plaques.
What should I do if I’ve been exposed to asbestos?
Get regular medical checkups and speak with a lawyer if you experience symptoms or receive a diagnosis.
