Asbestos & Mesothelioma Law Blog

Unfortunately, many auto mechanics are unaware of the risk of asbestos-containing products in automobile parts until the diagnosis of mesothelioma or an asbestos related cancer.  The harmful effects of asbestos exposure began to gain national attention in the mid 1970’s because of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.  As a result, government agencies began to warn and protect workers with the use of protective gear.

Even though asbestos regulation began almost thirty years ago, auto mechanics are still at risk for asbestos exposure.  Mesothelioma is directly related to asbestos exposure.  Asbestos-containing materials can still be found in a variety of products in automobiles.  Auto mechanics and asbestos exposure can occur when replacing or repairing – brake linings, clutches and clutch facings, clutch gaskets, heat seals, valve rings and packing and hoodliners.

One study completed by a government-certified laboratory on behalf of and reported by the Seattle Post-Intelligencer indicated that more than two-thirds of automotive garages had dangerous levels of asbestos dust.  These “alarmingly high” levels of asbestos dust place auto mechanics at risk for mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.     As such, auto mechanics should advise their physician of their likely asbestos exposure and seek routine exams to check for asbestos-related diseases.

The trauma of a malignant mesothelioma diagnosis leaves confusion and disbelief in its wake.  Your doctor will likely recommend you see an oncologist.  Your doctor typically will recommend a specialist for your treatment of malignant mesothelioma.  From the initial diagnosis, ask your doctor for a copy of all of your test results.  You have a right to do so.  Be certain to keep a folder with your pathology report, blood tests, imaging reports (x-ray, ct scan, PET scan, etc.) and any other medical results.  Keeping these results is invaluable for showing another doctor  the medical history of your illness should you seek another opinion or alternative treatment.

Useful questions to ask your oncologist about malignant mesothelioma include:

• How far has the malignant mesothelioma spread and what is your life expectancy?

Malignant mesothelioma is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the lining of the chest or abdomen.   The malignant (cancer) cells are found in the pleura (the thin layer of tissue that lines the chest cavity and covers the lungs) or the peritoneum (the thin layer of tissue that lines the abdomen and covers most of the organs in the abdomen).  This summary is about malignant mesothelioma of the pleura.

Anatomy of the respiratory system, showing the trachea and both lungs and their lobes and airways. Lymph nodes and the diaphragm are also shown. Oxygen is inhaled into the lungs and passes through the thin membranes of the alveoli and into the bloodstream.  Source:  NCI – General Information about Malignant Mesothelioma.

If you suspect mesothelioma or have a positive diagnosis, consult your physician immediately and then contact Throneberry Law Group. We offer a free consultation, and our lawyers represent clients nationwide.

A diagnosis of mesothelioma is frightening, and the emotional reactions can be counterproductive when time is of the essence. It is important for victims to come to terms with the illness to face treatment, and for family members to understand the psychological stages and symptoms and support the person through the process:

• Shock can inhibit the person from comprehending important information and moving forward with treatment.
• Denial can be paralyzing if the person pretends nothing is wrong, doesn’t want to discuss the disease, or refuses treatment. Often it is family and friends who are in denial, leaving the person without vital emotional support.

Happy Veteran’s Day! A big thank you to all the veterans who have so bravely served our country. You are greatly appreciated!

More than 30% of Americans diagnosed with mesothelioma served at one time in the U.S. Military.  Now, 20 or 30 years later, all too many of those U.S. Military Veterans are battling asbestos cancer.  Our firm is proud to help those who bravely served our country by providing nationwide representation to former military veterans who show symptoms of asbestos disease. 

Again, thank you for your service to our country.  Happy Veteran’s Day!

In early stages of the disease, mesothelioma may not have any visible symptoms and is very hard to detect. In the later stages, certain symptoms begin to develop and are usually caused by the growth of cancer and its pressure on certain nerves.

 Pleural Mesothelioma:

• Lower back or chest pain

Q: What is asbestos?
A: A microscopic threadlike fiber, asbestos is a common mineral found throughout the world. It is mined and used in consumer products and construction materials because of its strength and flexibility and its heat-resistant properties. If asbestos becomes airborne and dust like, it can be breathed into and lodged in the lungs. Asbestos particles in the lungs can cause terrible – even fatal – diseases, such as mesothelioma, asbestosis and lung cancer that can take decades to develop after asbestos exposure.

https://www.mesolawcenter.com/