Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos and can affect the abdominal cavity, heart, or the protective, thin membrane that surrounds the lungs. According to statistics, more than 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the U.S. annually, many of which are caused due to exposure to asbestos in the workplace. Those who have been injured or diagnosed with mesothelioma may be entitled to file a Kansas asbestos lawsuit and recover damages for their conditions.
Asbestos and Mesothelioma
Although asbestos is rarely used in the U.S. today, the prevalence of mesothelioma remains. It is important to keep in mind that it can take two to five decades following exposure to asbestos for the mesothelioma to manifest itself. Even if you only suspect you have been exposed to asbestos, it is wise to be checked out by a doctor just in case. Researchers continue to make progress regarding treatment options, but so far no actual cure for mesothelioma has been found.
Locations such as old houses, auto repair shops, schools, shipyards, and other older public buildings and industrial settings are more likely to contain asbestos than others. Although mesothelioma is usually the result of long-term exposure, it can occur following short-term exposure as well. Regardless of how long it took you to develop mesothelioma, you may be eligible to file a Kansas asbestos lawsuit and recover damages for your injuries.
Symptoms and Treatment of Mesothelioma
When asbestos is inhaled, the mineral’s fibers become lodged in the lung tissue and can cause complications that ultimately lead to the growth of tumors. The body may struggle to fight off the fibers, and a patient may experience inflammation, dry cough, and a difficulty breathing. Because early symptoms are often common and mild, they are rarely recognized as the signs of something much worse. However, if you or someone you love notice one or more of the following side effects, consider contacting your medical provider and seeking legal counsel to learn more about filing a Kansas asbestos lawsuit:
- Shortness of breath
- Fluid buildup
- Weight loss
- Chronic pain near tumor
- Bowel obstruction
You may be entitled to file a Kansas asbestos lawsuit against the responsible party even if you underwent a treatment for mesothelioma, including radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or palliative surgery. Many physicians within the medical community try all three therapies or combine two of them to increase the likelihood of a positive outcome. Although there is no cure for mesothelioma, therapy may effectively kill the cancerous cells and help to prevent their return.
Who is to Blame?
Workers throughout the U.S. continue to file asbestos lawsuits against their employers and other companies, alleging that the defendants knew or should have known about the risks and dangers of asbestos exposure. Although employees knowingly choose to work in dangerous industries, they allege that they nevertheless had the legal right to be informed of any hazards related to the necessary job functions.
Those who were employed by a company and feel as though they developed mesothelioma due to the neglect or irresponsibility of their employer or a third party may be entitled to file a Kansas asbestos lawsuit and seek compensation for their injuries. To learn more about your rights, consider seeking legal representation today.
Do You Have a Kansas Asbestos Lawsuit?
If you or a loved one was exposed to asbestos in the workplace and you have received a mesothelioma cancer diagnosis, you may be eligible to file a Kansas asbestos lawsuit. Attorney Group for Kansas can help you determine if you are eligible to recover damages and seek compensation for your condition. We can also connect you with an affiliated attorney able to file your Kansas asbestos lawsuit and work to help protect your legal rights.