Besides asbestosis (a chronic lung disease), asbestos exposure can trigger the development of several types of cancers. If you were diagnosed with asbestos-related cancer, discuss your right to potential compensation with a Chicago asbestos lawyer as soon as possible.
Major Asbestos-Related Cancers
The carcinogenic mineral is normally associated with cancers such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, laryngeal cancer, gastrointestinal cancer, and ovarian cancer (which is believed to result from the use of talcum powder).
Lesser Known Asbestos-Associated Cancers
Asbestos cancers are also linked to other areas of the body, as the mineral, over time, destroys cells and harms organs.
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) has found asbestos exposure is positively related to pharyngeal cancer, colon cancer, and stomach cancer. It means that some evidence suggests a link, but the data is not strong enough yet to conclude that asbestos definitively causes these cancers.
Doctors also believe that the following cancers may result from asbestos exposure.
Bile Duct Cancer
This cancer is found in the liver. Also called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (ICC), the cancer is cited in 40 percent of the cases, with asbestos exposure as the sole risk factor.
Colon Cancer
Study data found higher risks of colon (colorectal) cancer in textile and cement workers.
Esophageal Cancer
Asbestos exposure, especially chrysolite, showed a significant association with this cancer.
Kidney Cancer
Some research confirms deaths from kidney cancer among workers exposed to asbestos. However, the data from the entire body of research is too inconclusive to make a definite correlation.
Leukemia
The data on leukemia is also inconclusive, although a vague link exists to occupational exposure to the mineral.
Pharyngeal Cancer
The pharynx is located behind the nose and mouth and connected to the throat’s esophagus. A recent study suggests that asbestos is a possible risk factor for the disease.
Prostate Cancer
One recent study found that there is not enough data to show asbestos exposure heightens prostate cancer risk, although researchers have found a possible association.
Stomach Cancer
One report by the World Health Organization (WHO) found a connection between exposure to talc and stomach cancer.
More About Major Asbestos-Related Cancers
The major cancers – lung cancer and mesothelioma – are often the reason patients file lawsuits for asbestos compensation. The following information provides further details about the development of these cancers and their treatments.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a rare asbestos-related cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) or lining of the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma).
It also affects the pericardium of the heart and the lining of the testicles.
Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of this cancer. Even if a victim is exposed to low levels, they can receive a diagnosis after 20 to 50 years. The cancer’s latency period lasts several decades after a person is first exposed.
Pleural Mesothelioma begins in the mesothelial cells that line the chest cavity and lungs. It may spread to the nearby lymph nodes, diaphragm, and chest wall and eventually metastasize to other organs, such as the brain, liver, or bones.
Peritoneal mesothelioma starts in the peritoneal mesothelial cells that line the abdominal cavity. It may spread to nearby organs, the diaphragm, or the lymph nodes before metastasizing to distant organs, such as the liver or lungs.
Pericardial mesothelioma. This cancer grows in the heart’s lining. Starting as pleural mesothelioma, it invades the heart’s pericardium.
Mesotheliomas of the tunica vaginalis. The rarest type of mesothelioma, the disease affects the lining of the testicles.
Why You Should Work with an Asbestos Lawyer About Your Asbestos Lung Cancer Claim
If you’ve been diagnosed with cancer that is associated with asbestos exposure, you can receive compensation. The key is to talk to an asbestos attorney with direct experience with these claims.
What Steps You’ll Need to Take
An asbestos cancer lawyer or mesothelioma attorney can help with your claim, ensuring you receive maximum compensation.
The legal consultation. The first step is to schedule a consultation with an experienced asbestos lawyer. During the consultation, you must provide details about your asbestos exposure history, medical records, and diagnosis. The lawyer will evaluate your case to determine the viability of the claim.
Collecting the evidence. Your asbestos attorney will assist in gathering all the required evidence and documents for your claim. The evidence includes:
- Employment records: Document your work history, including the companies you worked for, job titles, and dates of employment
- Medical records: Copies of your medical records, including diagnosis, treatment details, and any statements from your doctor linking your cancer to asbestos exposure
- Exposure evidence: Any evidence that can prove your exposure to asbestos, such as witness statements, company records, or product information
- Personal records: Details about your personal and family life, including information about your health, lifestyle, and any potential alternative causes of your cancer
Determining liable parties. Your lawyer will investigate and identify the parties responsible for your asbestos exposure. This can include former employers, asbestos manufacturers, or other companies that produced, distributed, or used asbestos-containing products.
Filing the claim. After the required evidence is gathered, your asbestos attorney will file a claim on your behalf. Depending on the circumstances of your case, the claim may be filed as a personal injury lawsuit or a claim with an asbestos trust fund.
Settlement negotiations. In many cases, the defendant parties will offer a settlement to avoid going to trial. Your asbestos lawyer will negotiate with the defendant’s representative to ensure you receive a fair settlement amount for your injuries, medical expenses, lost income, and related damages.
Trial preparation (if necessary). Your case may proceed to trial if a settlement cannot be reached. Your lawyer will prepare for trial by organizing the evidence and identifying expert witnesses. They will create a legal strategy to present your case effectively before a judge and jury.
Contact an Asbestos Attorney About Your Lung Cancer Claim Now
It’s important to note that asbestos cancer claims can be complex and time-sensitive due to statutes of limitations. An experienced asbestos lawyer can guide you through the process, handle the legal complications, and maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation for your asbestos-related illness.
To cover your expenses and financial losses, talk to a lawyer. Contact an asbestos attorney for a free case review now.
