Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lungs or abdomen that is linked to Asbestos exposure. Asbestos refers to a group of naturally occurring minerals which form long tiny fibers, commonly used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. For many years asbestos was added to a variety of products to strengthen them, provide heat insulation and make them fire resistant. Usually, asbestos is combined with a binding material so that it is not readily released into the air. However, if asbestos should become airborne and is inhaled, it can remain in the lungs for a long period of time, producing the risk for severe health problems that do not appear until many years later. More than 3,000 products in use today contain asbestos. Some of the more common products that may contain asbestos include:

• Pipe and duct insulation.
• Building insulation
• Wall and ceiling panels
• Roofing materials
• Artificial fireplaces and associated materials
• Brake pads and linings.
• Pot holders and ironing board pads
• Hair dryers
• Floor tiles
• Electrical wires
• Textured paints
• Toasters and other similar household appliances
• Furnaces and furnace door gaskets.

Certain occupations are known to be those where risk of exposure to asbestos is great, and the numbers of people in such occupations contracting asbestos disease are high. These occupations include insulators, steelworkers, brake mechanics, electricians, bricklayers, shipyard workers, maintenance workers and pipe fitters.

There is a latency period of 20 to 50 years between initial exposure and development of mesothelioma. The average time period, however, is 35 to 40 years.

Mesothelioma victims and their families may be entitled to compensation. To protect your rights, contact us today.