Mesothelioma is considered a relatively new issue, both medically and legally. This is because the prevalence of a large number of cases has only recently surfaced over the past few decades. Despite some awareness of the effects of asbestos exposure years before, the major legislation restricting and banning asbestos use was first considered in the 1970s, and passed in the 1980s. Widespread awareness among members of the medical and legal communities, as well as common citizens resulted after these regulations. For those who had already been exposed to asbestos, there were no preventative measures to keep them from developing mesothelioma and other related illnesses. Many who suffer from the terminal cancer were exposed to asbestos on a regular basis several years, often decades, before being properly diagnosed or experiencing related symptoms. Early detection is often deemed difficult because many of the early side effects of mesothelioma mimic the flu, common cold, and other conditions. Today, technological advancements have contributed to the development of some treatment options for mesothelioma patients, but there is no cure.
The law in regards to mesothelioma has progressed as well over the years. Because there is research to substantiate that the cause of mesothelioma is in most cases attributed to someone other than the victim, patients are often eligible, in the eyes of the law, for personal injury or wrongful death compensation. Mesothelioma is a cancer that is considered preventable and likely caused by the negligence, or wrongful acts of employers, manufacturers, and others with prior knowledge of the dangers of exposing people to asbestos, whose actions led to another’s illness. Mesothelioma patients who file claims against manufacturers, contractors, and others who are deemed responsible for their illnesses have historically been awarded large sums in legal compensation due to the severity of the issue.
Effective mesothelioma lawyers are well trained and experienced in successfully handling these types of cases. The law entitles sufferers with valid claims to compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, emotional distress, lost wages, and other damages incurred as a result of developing mesothelioma. Seeking the proper medical attention and subsequently effective legal counsel and support are always recommended for mesothelioma sufferers.
