Mesothelioma is a rare and malignant form of cancer that affects the victims of asbestos exposure. Once an individual has inhaled asbestos fibers, they can become trapped within different parts of their respiratory system. Over time, malignant tumors can evolve in the areas where these fibers have been trapped.
It is often years or decades before mesothelioma is diagnosed in an asbestos victim. This is because the symptoms of mesothelioma cancer can take a long time to develop within an individual. If you breathed in asbestos early in your life, you might be retired by the time you are diagnosed with mesothelioma. Because of this long latency period, it is estimated that 75% of mesothelioma victims are senior citizens.
There are many cutting-edge treatments available for mesothelioma patients, but no known cure. This can be devastating to patients who have family members and loved ones to support at home. Given that the life expectancy with the disease is only 1 to 2 years after diagnosis, many mesothelioma patients choose to file lawsuits against those responsible for their disease. A mesothelioma lawsuit can help provide monetary support for medical treatment, time lost at work, and to support family members after the patient has passed.
