Why is Mesothelioma So Hard to Diagnose?

Mesothelioma is an aggressive and rare cancer linked directly to asbestos exposure, a naturally occurring mineral used for insulation and fire-resistant properties. Why does Mesothelioma stay silent for so long? It's essential to know how people get sick to begin with. From 1940 till about 1970, many manufacturers, construction companies, and even our military inhaled this devastating mineral daily. During these thirty years, all paint, roof tiles, wall insulation, and thousands of consumer products you are most likely familiar with - used this mineral.

Determining how you were exposed to asbestos is an important part of a mesothelioma lawsuit. Contact the mesothelioma attorneys at Bailey Cowan Heckaman today so that we can investigate your case and determine who is responsible. Let our knowledge benefit you during this crucial time.

A Frightening Medical Predicament

The frightening reality is that these toxic minerals still lurk in some homes today. "Legacy Asbestos" develops into "Asbestos Dust," tiny fibers that become airborne and deadly if inhaled over time. 

To fully understand how to achieve timely intervention and improved patient outcomes, we must first understand the complexities of diagnosing this silent cancer. Because of the hidden nature of this disease - most people diagnosed with Mesothelioma didn't know their disease's name. 

At the same time, manufacturers have kept relevant medical knowledge a secret with zero workplace protections or organized community advocating on the victim's behalf. Thankfully, much has changed since the turn of the century. Mesothelioma lawsuits are now there to help those in need of a voice. 

Sadly even today, there are many delays in getting diagnosed, which gives the cancer time to spread. We've felt our calling to speak for those affected. Mesothelioma has no cure, and once exposed to the mineral, asbestos-related diseases are lifelong. There is much advocacy and many research communities to fight this disease; however, it is still an uphill battle for patients to recognize and physicians to diagnose. 

What are the Challenges?

In this blog, we will dive into some challenges in diagnosing Mesothelioma. 

Once respected for its industrial versatility, asbestos became the critical culprit behind Mesothelioma.

Its usage has dwindled but remains a threat. Today, asbestos is still legal and imported into the US. Asbestos is banned in 60 countries yet remains legal in the United States. 

It's regulated more than it used to be, but people continue getting sick. Sadly this disease is not a thing of the past.

Notable facts and statistics underscore the urgency of addressing Mesothelioma:

• Long Latency Period: Mesothelioma's long latency period spans 20 to 50 years from exposure to symptom onset - which presents a unique challenge. The extended timeline often blurs the line between past asbestos exposure and current health issues and symptoms.

• No Idea When Exposed and Rarily Of Disease: Decades of research link past employment and high-risk asbestos occupations with Mesothelioma. People who worked in enclosed spaces - pipefitters, boiler tenders, and insulators, were all put at risk. The asbestos could be carried home on workers' clothes to their families, contaminating their homes and loved ones in the form of "Second-hand asbestos exposure ."With decades between exposure and symptoms, it is difficult for patients and doctors to connect the body's warning signs to something happening in the present. Mesothelioma is extremely rare, comprising a small percentage of all cancer cases.

• Diagnostic Hurdles and Hard To Recognize: Diagnosing Mesothelioma is complex due to its non-specific symptoms, making it highly difficult to recognize. Patients might initially present with chest pain, shortness of breath, and fatigue. All of which are common symptoms that overlap with various other conditions. This similarity can lead to misdiagnosis and delayed intervention.

• There is no easy way to screen Mesothelioma: Invasive testing is the only natural way to find if a patient has the disease. CT and PET scans can help a doctor understand the patient's condition, but a biopsy is the only way to confirm and diagnose a patient with Mesothelioma.  

Seeking Compensation through Mesothelioma Lawsuits 

Receiving a life-altering mesothelioma diagnosis is an indescribably challenging experience for the patient, their family, and loved ones. Often, individuals approach their doctors with seemingly mild symptoms, hoping for a diagnosis of a passing ailment. Confronting the harsh reality of Mesothelioma demands courage and determination, but remember, you are not alone in this battle.

With decades of experience, Bailey Cowan & Heckaman is dedicated to assisting people in comprehending their condition and exploring the options available to fight back. Billions of dollars have gone to support victims of asbestos exposure, offering an opportunity to seek rightful compensation for the damages incurred.
By meeting with physicians and experts in the medical field we are able to gather valuable evidence and ammunition to communicate our clients’ stories, and we get to learn from these medical experts to better our legal skills in this field. There is not much we wouldn't do to help our mesothelioma clients get the justice they deserve.