Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer most often caused by exposure to asbestos. For decades, asbestos was used across countless industries — construction, shipbuilding, automotive manufacturing, and even household products — before its dangers became widely known. Unfortunately, thousands of people in the US alone are still being diagnosed every year, often decades after their initial exposure.
Understanding What Mesothelioma Is
Mesothelioma develops in the thin layer of tissue known as the mesothelium, which lines most of your internal organs. The most common form affects the lungs, called pleural mesothelioma. Less common types include peritoneal mesothelioma (affecting the abdomen) and pericardial mesothelioma (around the heart).
Symptoms can take 20 to 50 years to appear, which makes early detection challenging. Many victims mistake early signs such as shortness of breath, persistent cough, or chest pain for other less serious conditions. By the time it’s diagnosed, the cancer is often advanced, which is why awareness is critical.
How Asbestos Exposure Causes Mesothelioma
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made up of microscopic fibers that resist heat, fire, and chemicals. When these fibers are disturbed, they become airborne and can be inhaled or swallowed. Once inside the body, asbestos fibers can become lodged in the tissue surrounding the lungs or abdomen. Over time, this causes inflammation, scarring, and eventually the formation of malignant cancer cells.
Workers in construction, shipyards, manufacturing, and automotive repair are especially at risk. However, family members can also be exposed through contaminated clothing or tools brought home from work. Even limited, short-term exposure has been linked to mesothelioma.
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The Ongoing Risk of Asbestos Exposure
Although asbestos use has declined significantly in the United States, it hasn’t disappeared. Many older homes, schools, and buildings in New York still contain asbestos insulation, ceiling tiles, floor materials, or siding. Disturbing these materials during renovation or demolition can release asbestos fibers into the air.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues to regulate asbestos and provide safety information for homeowners and businesses. You can learn more at https://www.epa.gov/asbestos.
What to Do If You Were Exposed
If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or have symptoms consistent with mesothelioma, it’s important to seek both medical and legal help immediately. Medical professionals can evaluate your condition, and an experienced attorney can help you determine when and where the exposure occurred.
How the Law Offices of Steven Gacovino, P.C. Can Help
Our firm works with our national partners to file mesothelioma claims and represent mesothelioma victims and families throughout Suffolk County and beyond. For those who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or suffered due to asbestos exposure, you need to look no further for a lawyer to handle your asbestos exposure case. Whether ongoing, chronic harm caused by exposure to asbestos or wrongful death from mesothelioma, we understand how devastating this disease can be — physically, emotionally, and financially.
We can help you identify the source of exposure, gather evidence, and pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos, contact the Law Offices of Steven Gacovino, P.C. today at 844-692-1200 or fill out a simple form on our Mesothelioma Lawyers page for a free consultation.
Related Links
- A History of Landmark Mesothelioma Lawsuits in the United States
- Why You Need an Experienced Asbestos Lawyer for Your Case
- Understanding Asbestos Bans and Ongoing Risks in the U.S. Today
- How Much Compensation Can Mesothelioma Victims Receive?
- What to Do If You Believe a Loved One Died from Mesothelioma
- How Veterans Are Affected by Asbestos Exposure in Military Service
- What to Expect When Hiring an Asbestos and Mesothelioma Lawyer
- What Evidence Is Needed to Prove Asbestos Exposure in Court?
- How Long Do I Have to File a Mesothelioma or Asbestos Claim?
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