Mesothelioma and Other Asbestos Diseases

Three serious health conditions may result from exposure to even a small amount of airborne asbestos fibers. All three conditions result from inhaling the fibers, which become embedded in the lungs or other parts of the body.

It can take years for symptoms of any of these asbestos illness to appear. Some experts believe that no symptoms appear for more than a decade after exposure. In some cases, it takes even longer for the illness to become evident.

The following is information about the three major conditions resulting from asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma

The medical profession used to consider this type of cancer as quite rare. While still uncommon, the number of Michigan workers diagnosed with mesothelioma has risen. Now, about 3,000 new mesothelioma cases are reported in the United States every year. The incidence of this disease is increasing at an even higher rate in Europe.

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer, usually caused to asbestos fibers that actually penetrate lung tissue. It also is possible for mesothelioma to develop after these fibers penetrate the heart or the abdomen.

While doctors have found many difference causes for other forms of cancer, the only definitely identified cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos.

Asbestosis

Sometimes, this term is used incorrectly to refer to all ailments resulting from asbestos exposure. However, it actually is a very specific condition. Asbestosis (also known as interstitial fibrosis) develops when inhaled asbestos fibers cause scarring of the lung tissue. Over time, this scarring reduces the capacity of the lung. Individuals with asbestosis may suffer disabling lung impairments, and must be monitored closely because they are at increased risk of even more serious asbestos-related conditions.

Lung Cancer

Lung cancer is all too common in our society and has many possible causes. However, there is evidence of a link between asbestos exposure and lung cancer. The risk of lung cancer is even higher for an individual who not only was exposed to asbestos, but also smokes cigarettes.

If you or a loved one suffer from asbestos related cancer or mesothelioma cancer, talk with an experienced Michigan asbestos lawyer today. Please submit a simple, free and confidential legal consultation form now.

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