Mesothelioma, caused by long-term or repeated asbestos exposure, initially develops in the membrane that lines the lungs, heart, or abdominal cavity. Each year in the U.S., more than 3,000 new individuals are diagnosed with mesothelioma, many times because of an exposure to asbestos in shipyards, mills, construction sites, and other work environments. Contact Attorney Group for Iowa today to learn more about filing an Iowa asbestos lawsuit if you were diagnosed with mesothelioma and you believe that exposure to asbestos at your place of employment is the cause.
The Link Between Asbestos and Mesothelioma
It is important to remember that although asbestos is rarely used today, symptoms of mesothelioma may not become apparent for 20 to 50 years after the individual has been exposed to the mineral. While there is no cure for the condition, ongoing technology and medical advances may provide a positive outlook over the next several decades. Mesothelioma can also develop following short-term exposure, but it is most commonly caused due to years of working around asbestos. Regardless of how you developed mesothelioma, consider seeking legal counsel to learn more about filing an Iowa asbestos lawsuit. The following locations may be more likely to contain asbestos than others:
- Public buildings
- Industrial settings
- Shipyards
- Schools
- Old houses
- Auto repair shops
What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma develops due to the repeated ingestion of asbestos fibers. The fibers can become trapped in a worker’s lungs where they can ultimately cause tumors to form. Although the body may attempt to prevent the fibers from manifesting in the lungs, the patient may experience difficulty breathing, inflammation, or a dry cough in the process.
Many cases of mesothelioma are not detected early-on because the symptoms of the condition can be mild or even nonexistent. You may be entitled to file an Iowa asbestos lawsuit to seek compensation for your injuries if you were diagnosed with mesothelioma after experiencing one or more of the following symptoms of the condition:
- Bowel obstruction
- Weight loss
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic pain near the tumors
- Buildup of fluid
Treatments for mesothelioma can include one or more of the following procedures: palliative surgery, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. Depending on the physician and the extent of the condition, a physician may attempt to try two or more treatments at the same time to increase a patient’s chance of success. While mesothelioma is incurable, killing off the affected cells can help to reduce the likelihood that the cancer will manifest itself again.
Who is Responsible?
Workers who believe that their employers had a duty to warn them of the potential dangers of asbestos exposure and failed to do so may be entitled to file an Iowa asbestos lawsuit. Although many employers may attempt to point out that employees have access to information regarding the link between asbestos and mesothelioma, employers are still required to ensure that their workers are fully aware of the risks of long-term asbestos exposure. Consider seeking legal counsel today if you would like to learn more about filing your own Iowa asbestos lawsuit to seek damages for your injuries.
Questions about Your Iowa Asbestos Lawsuit? We Can Help
If you or someone you love was exposed to asbestos and you developed mesothelioma or another health condition as a result, you may be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries by filing an Iowa asbestos lawsuit. We can answer your questions, address your concerns, and review your case in a free, no-obligation consultation to determine whether you have a claim. If you do, we can put you in contact with one of our affiliated Iowa Asbestos lawsuit attorneys. Call today.
