Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that is diagnosed in approximately
3,000 people each year. The disease usually affects the thin membrane that lines
the chest cavity and the lungs. This membrane is called the pleura. It also
can affect the lining of the abdominal cavity, called the peritoneum, and, very
rarely, it affects the lining around the heart, called the pericardium.
Most cases of malignant mesothelioma are caused by exposure to asbestos, a
naturally occurring mineral that was used in a variety of industries. A small
percentage of cases have been linked to exposure to a mineral silicate called
zeolite or to a type of radiation contrast dye (Thorotrast) that was used before
1960 to help blood vessels show up on X-rays.
People exposed to asbestos for a long time or exposed to high levels have an
increased risk of developing malignant mesothelioma but even people exposed
for a very short time can develop this disease. The disease develops at least
15 years (typically 20 to 40 years) after exposure to asbestos. People usually
are diagnosed with this disease between ages 50 to 70. More men than women get
this cancer, probably because men are more likely to have worked in the industries
that use asbestos.
There are three main types of malignant mesothelioma: epithelial, sarcomatoid
and mixed. The epithelial type is the most common.
Call your doctor for an evaluation if you have any of the symptoms of lung
cancer, especially if you have worked in an industry with high exposure to asbestos.
If you have shortness of breath or chest pain, you should call your doctor for
an evaluation as soon as possible.
If you or someone you know have acquired Mesothelioma or have experienced the
symptoms of mesothelioma and wish to find out more information about your legal
rights, simply fill out the form below or choose the state in which you would like to contact one of our
attorneys. After you submit your information, we'll match you with a lawyer
in your area who will contact you directly to discuss your legal needs.
Attorney Lawyer Network is a resource for contacting
Mesothelioma attorneys regarding your legal issues, including the
elements of a Mesothelioma lawsuit, the types of
Mesothelioma claims that can be filed, and how to choose a
Mesothelioma lawyer.
District of Columbia Mesothelioma Attorneys
To contact a Mesothelioma attorney please fill out the form below:
