Industries and companies have exposed workers to asbestos for hundreds of years. Several industries carry a high risk of asbestos exposure, leaving workers across many professions vulnerable. Electricians, plumbers, mechanics, and construction workers are just a few examples of those susceptible to asbestos. This toxic mineral leads to a rare and very aggressive form of cancer called mesothelioma.
Our law firm is currently handling lawsuits on behalf of individuals who developed mesothelioma following asbestos exposure.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in rock and soil. There are six types of asbestos, all of which consist of microscopic fibers. Formerly, over 100 asbestos mines were in operation in the United States between the 1960s and 1970s. Although the United States no longer runs any asbestos mines, it still receives asbestos from Russia and other countries. Many industries use asbestos because of its heat resistance and strong fibers. While it is primarily used in construction and insulation, various manufactured goods carry asbestos. Products that contain asbestos include:
Despite the compounding research that points to the toxicity of asbestos, manufacturers still use asbestos. While the United States regulates the mineral, it has not banned asbestos. Even with regulations, the U.S. still imports asbestos, and products can legally contain up to 1% of asbestos. Asbestos use dates back to the Industrial Revolution. Industries that use asbestos in their products or occupations that involve products containing asbestos have put workers at risk for decades. When disturbed, asbestos fibers can become airborne. Workers unknowingly breathe in or swallow the hazardous fibers in the air.
People can also suffer secondhand asbestos exposure. Workers can carry asbestos fibers on their clothing and expose people they come in contact with. Or, people who live nearby manufacturing sites that use asbestos are at an increased risk of exposure.
People exposed to asbestos may develop mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer in which tumors form in the mesothelium. The mesothelium is a protective layer that surrounds several organs. Where the tumor grows determines the type of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma can form in the lungs, abdomen, heart, or testicles. Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos accounts for nearly 90% of all mesothelioma cases. It can take decades for victims to develop mesothelioma. Symptoms of mesothelioma include:
While the outcome depends on the type of mesothelioma and the stage, it is a very aggressive form of cancer. Approximately 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma every year in the United States. There are roughly 2,500 mesothelioma deaths each year.
Scientists first discovered cases of asbestos-related illnesses in the 1920s. By the 1930s, scientists hypothesized that a strong link existed between asbestos and mesothelioma. Regardless of these concerns, manufacturers continued to use asbestos in their products. Even with the mounting scientific evidence, companies resumed mining millions of pounds of asbestos in the U.S. Profits for companies and industries skyrocketed, but at the cost of workers’ and consumers’ health.
Lawsuits accuse companies of deliberately covering up evidence of the dangers of asbestos. Companies downplayed the seriousness of asbestos, allegedly refusing to warn workers and customers of mesothelioma data.
More than 3,600 asbestos lawsuits were filed in the United States in 2020.
If you or a loved one developed mesothelioma after asbestos exposure, you may be entitled to an asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit. An asbestos mesothelioma lawsuit may help you recover compensation for:
The Lake Law Firm was founded by Edward J. Lake, Esq., a personal injury lawyer for over 25 years. Our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to seeking justice on behalf of those who have suffered injury or death due to the negligence of others. Our experienced attorneys handle many different types of pharmaceutical drugs, medical devices, and other defective products. The lawyers in our firm have helped collect millions of dollars for their clients. The Lake Law Firm will advocate for you and your rights. Please contact us for a free confidential case evaluation at (888) 525-3529 or submit an inquiry on this page.
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