Understanding mesothelioma is crucial for anyone facing this aggressive, asbestos-related cancer. Mesothelioma most commonly affects the lining of the lungs, but it can also develop in the abdomen, heart, or testicles. It’s not genetic. It’s caused by one thing: asbestos exposure.
This disease has a long latency period—often 20 to 50 years—meaning people diagnosed today were usually exposed decades ago, often at work or through a family member.
How Does Mesothelioma Happen?
The primary cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Inhaling or swallowing microscopic asbestos fibers can cause long-term inflammation and scarring, eventually leading to tumor formation. These fibers can remain lodged in the body permanently.
Asbestos was widely used in many products and industries:
- Power plants
- Steel mills
- Chemical plants
- Shipyards
- Home and industrial insulation
Even family members were at risk through take-home exposure—contact with contaminated work clothes.
Symptoms to Watch For Understanding Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma symptoms are often vague at first, which makes early detection difficult. Common symptoms include:
- Persistent chest or abdominal pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Chronic cough
- Unexplained weight loss
By the time mesothelioma is diagnosed, it’s often in an advanced stage.
What Can You Do?
A mesothelioma diagnosis is life-changing—but you are not powerless. If you or someone you love was exposed to asbestos, you may be eligible for compensation.
Legal options include:
- Personal injury lawsuits
- Wrongful death claims
- Claims against asbestos bankruptcy trusts
Attorney Lee W. Davis has handled asbestos cases since 1988 and offers direct representation—no call centers, no gatekeepers.
📞 Call 412-781-0525 or use the secure form below for a free case evaluation.
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