In the 1970's, asbestos was connected with adverse health effects, including lung cancer. It is now listed as a human carcinogen, alongside other dangerous substances such as tobacco. Unfortunately, many employers failed to warn their workers about asbestos exposure or to provide proper provisions for protection. Now, many former workers are paying the price for that negligence.
Our firm believes those responsible should be held financially accountable. If you were diagnosed with lung cancer and you believe your diagnosis is related to asbestos exposure, please contact our national asbestos attorneys at BCH for a free consultation.
Why Does Asbestos Cause Lung Cancer?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring substance that was used in production and manufacturing for many years before its link with dangerous health conditions was exposed. After the dangers of asbestos were confirmed in the 1970s, the United States government began to regulate asbestos use.
Inhaling asbestos can raise your risk for lung cancer. Asbestos irritates the lungs because its microscopic fibers lodge in the soft tissue surrounding the lungs and are difficult for the body to expel. Over time—even years or decades after exposure—asbestos irritation can lead to scarring and tissue damage in the lungs.
Where Is Asbestos Found?
Workers who may have been exposed to asbestos include:
- Boilermakers
- Kiln workers
- Chemical workers
- Roofers
- Welders
- Electricians
- Aircraft mechanics
- Automobile mechanics
- Carpenters
- Lab analysts / lab technicians
- Custodians
- Warehouse workers
- Chemical plant workers
- Pipefitters
- Shipyard workers
- United States military personnel
- Sheet metal workers
- Railroad car mechanics / rebuilders
- Rubber workers including tire makers
- Insulators
How long does asbestos take to cause lung cancer?
While the exact amount of time it takes for asbestos to cause cancer is unknown, experts believe that there is a latent period of 10-40 years between exposure and the development of symptoms. This means that people who have been exposed to asbestos may not develop cancer for many years, making it difficult to diagnose and treat the condition in its early stages.
Asbestos exposure can also lead to other health problems such as asbestosis (a scarring of the lungs) and mesothelioma (a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen). If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to monitor your health closely and seek medical attention if you develop any symptoms.
What is the prognosis for lung cancer caused by asbsetos?
Lung cancer caused by asbestos is often aggressive. The average life expectancy for those with asbestos-related lung cancer is 16.2 months. However, the prognosis for lung cancer caused by asbestos depends on several factors, including the type and stage of cancer, the patient's overall health, and the extent of asbestos exposure.
Treatment options for asbestos-related lung cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy, among others. However, because the cancer is often diagnosed at a later stage or when it has already metastasized, these treatments may not always be effective at treating the disease. However, early detection and treatment can improve the chances of survival and quality of life.
Get Counsel Regarding Your Asbestos Lung Cancer Case
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness or your family has lost a loved one, it is important to seek legal counsel as soon as possible. An experienced asbestos lawsuit attorney from Bailey Cowan Heckaman can help you determine if you have a case and, if so, what your legal options are.
While each case is different, an attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve. Our team has experience handling these types of cases, and we can help you take the right steps to protect your future.
Call today at (713) 909-7910Â for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.Â
