Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lung, chest, abdomen, and heart. Its only known cause is asbestos exposure, which occurs when asbestos-containing products are moved, destroyed, or otherwise disturbed, sending up microscopic asbestos fibers that are inhaled into the lungs.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring fibrous material that comes in different forms. The first asbestos-related death was documented in 1906, and the asbestos industry knew of health dangers by the 1930s. These dangers were hidden from the public, however, for several decades.
Asbestos was used in a variety of applications, starting in the mid-1800s. Because of its strength and fire-resistance, asbestos was used for insulation, flooring, roofing, lawn furniture, automobile braking systems, fake snow, and even cigarette filters.
Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year. Because the disease may not show up for many years after asbestos exposure, many people who previously worked with asbestos develop mesothelioma, even if their workplace exposure ended long ago.
Some industries whose workers are especially at risk for developing mesothelioma include:
- Asbestos mining;
- Construction (especially demolition or renovation of older structures);
- Manufacturing of certain products (including some fabrics, automobile brake pads, and building materials).
Common signs of mesothelioma include:
- Chest or abdominal pain;
- Buildup of fluid in the lung or the abdomen;
- Shortness of breath, wheezing, or cough;
- Fatigue;
- Weight loss; and
- Bowel problems.
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms and have previously come into contact with asbestos, you may have an undiagnosed case of mesothelioma and should contact a doctor immediately.
You have probably encountered other attorneys’ advertisements soliciting clients with mesothelioma. Some national advertisers may want to lump you into a large group. With South Carolina mesothelioma attorney David L. Hood, on the other hand, you will get personalized one-on-one attention in his office or in your home. You will not be treated like a file number, but like a person with a life, a family, and friends. For a free evaluation of your case, please call (866) 610-4663 and we will make every attempt to contact you within 24 hours.
Clients are not liable for any expenses, unless there is a recovery in their case; however, if there is a recovery in their case, clients will be liable for expenses. Attorneys fees are based on a percentage of the recovery, which will be computed before deducting expenses.