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Category: Mesothelioma

Have you or has someone you love recently been diagnosed with mesothelioma? Looking for pertinent, key facts on the disease? This article, Mesothelioma for Dummies, will answer your most fundamental questions on what the disease is, who is at risk, treatment options, and where to turn for legal help.

One of the most important mesothelioma facts to know is this: Exposure to asbestos is the primary cause of this rare form of cancer. Asbestos is a fibrous material used mainly in construction, especially during the 20th century. However, even after they were discovered to be hazardous, asbestos companies continued to make products containing this toxic material because of their strength and resistance to heat.

Who’s at the Greatest Risk for Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a disease largely caused by occupational exposure. Some of the occupations most at risk include electricians, carpenters, machinists, plumbers, boilermakers, and military personnel. Additionally, family members of employees who worked in power plants, refineries, steel mills, construction sites, and Navy ships could be at risk for secondhand exposure. It is unknown how many people get mesothelioma from second hand exposure, but it is contracted from the dust brought home on clothing, hair, or skin.

A large majority of victims of mesothelioma are veterans of our country’s armed forces who served from 1930 through 1980. Asbestos was commonly used throughout shipyards and naval vessels during those years. Asbestos was an effective and inexpensive way to safeguard sailors from fire, heat, and electrical shock. It was also used in sleeping quarters, engine rooms, and mess halls as insulation.

Mesothelioma for Dummies: The Disease

Mesothelioma can be difficult to diagnose, as the symptoms can mirror those of many other illnesses. An early mesothelioma diagnoses is difficult but can happen accidently through a routine x-ray or blood test. If you have been exposed to asbestos, watch for the symptoms and notify your doctor of your risk for mesothelioma.

What are the Symptoms of Mesothelioma?

The early signs of mesothelioma can be mistaken for indigestion, pneumonia, bronchitis, or even the flu. The growth of the cancerous tumors occurs gradually, and sometimes it takes decades for the symptoms to even present themselves. As a result, mesothelioma statistics show that by the time the cancer is diagnosed, it has reached the later stages of development. By recognizing symptoms immediately, mesothelioma patients have a significant advantage in receiving an early diagnosis, which can determine the best course of action for prolonged life expectancy.

Pleural Mesothelioma (occurs in lining of the lung)

Fatigue

Coughing

Shortness of breath

Chest pain

Fever/night sweats

Peritoneal (occurs in lining of abdomen)

Nausea

Fever

Weight loss

Loss of appetite

Bloating

Pericardial (occurs in lining of the heart)

Chest pain

Fever/night sweats

Shortness of breath

Irregular heartbeat

Coughing

What are the Treatment Options for Mesothelioma?

Despite years of research, no cure currently exists for mesothelioma. However, there are treatments that can improve a patient’s prognosis and quality of life. The most common treatment for mesothelioma is a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.

Many people choose to also pursue alternative therapies for mesothelioma treatment including:

Immunotherapy-assists a patient’s own immune system in fighting the cancer

Gene therapy-injects genetic material into the body to target and kill the cancer cells

Mesothelioma for Dummies: Your Legal Options

Mesothelioma patients and their families deserve justice and financial compensation for their pain and suffering. While reading our article about Mesothelioma for Dummies is a great starting point, finding a lawyer who is familiar with asbestos laws and the disease itself is critical. The attorneys at the Nemeroff Law Firm have the dedication, compassion, and experience you are looking for. They will fight hard to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Don’t wait, contact us today at 866-342-1929 or by email.

Many companies that do not comply with standard health precautions may expose workers to cancerous materials such as asbestos. This material is the predominant cause of mesothelioma cancer, a sly disease that only shows its effects decades after exposure. If you or a loved one have been exposed to cancerous asbestos, consider organizing a mesothelioma screening to stay one step ahead of your health.

How Does a Mesothelioma Screening Work?

The first step to your diagnostic process is seeing a qualified physician who will conduct a physical examination and ask about your medical history and possible exposure to asbestos particles. If there are mesothelioma symptoms or other troubling signs, the physician may encourage further testing.

Who Should Consider a Mesothelioma Screening?

Mesothelioma cancer is very rare, generally found in those exposed to asbestos for a long time, such as firefighters, carpenters, asbestos miners, and construction workers. These occupations are at a higher risk for asbestos exposure, as they may come in direct contact with the carcinogenic material in the workplace. Workers in these occupations, as well as their families, are encouraged to participate in periodic mesothelioma screenings. Because the disease may develop years after the individual was exposed to asbestos, it is critical to undergo mesothelioma testing even when no symptoms are obvious.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Many mesothelioma cases arise after symptoms occur, and often this is too late. Asbestos-exposed individuals should undergo regular screenings to find potential complications before symptoms occur. Physicians combine different approaches for mesothelioma screenings, including using these imaging techniques:

Radiography: imaging techniques that uses X-rays to project a picture of a certain structure;

Computed Tomography (CT Scan): allows a more detailed view and can be used to show fluid around the lungs and scarring inside the lungs;

Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI): used to show the area cancer has invaded and as a tool for staging the cancer;

Ultrasonography: used to show effusions or pleural thickening and may be used as a video-guide if biopsies are necessary; and

In addition, mesothelioma victims often show abnormal concentrations of osteopontin and soluble mesothelin-related peptides (SMRP). By combining mesothelioma blood tests for these molecules and some of the above imaging techniques, physicians are often able to diagnose malignant mesothelioma before severe symptoms appear. If these screening methods are not sufficient, the physician may use invasive methods, such as a thoracoscopy or biopsy.

The Threat of Mesothelioma’s Long Latency Period

One of the major issues with mesothelioma cancer is that it creeps up years after asbestos exposure. Scientists are still researching the disease, but it has been found that gender and exposure time have an effect on the latency period. The time lag presents a threat to those developing the disease: even when clear symptoms show, the victim may not think asbestos long ago was the cause. Because one never knows when the disease will fully develop, the best practice against it is frequent screening to catch any potential complications before they mature.

If the results to your mesothelioma screening are positive for malignant mesothelioma, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Nemeroff Law Firm can fight for your rights. Contact our office at 866-342-1929 or fill in your information on our website for a free case evaluation.

Throughout the years, shipbuilders prided themselves on using the best techniques and materials to send people across the seas. Little did they know that one of the natural materials relied on—asbestos—was toxic. Although shipbuilders stopped using asbestos components in the 1970s, people today who were exposed decades ago are suffering the ill effects of asbestos exposure in shipyards decades ago. If you worked at Naval Base Kodiak and mesothelioma plagues you today, read on to learn how to protect your legal rights.

Naval Base Kodiak has served the U.S. in various forms through the years. From its beginnings as a naval air station to its present-day operations as a U.S. Coast Guard Air Station, the base’s strategic location made it an important point in U.S. military operations on the West Coast. But, while it offered protection for the country’s citizens in times of war or peace, those who worked there suffered asbestos exposure at Naval Air Station Kodiak, leaving a legacy beyond mere memories.

The Establishment of Naval Base Kodiak

Naval Air Station Kodiak was established in 1941, commanded by Commander John Perry. The location was chosen for the surrounding ice-free waters. It served as the principal advance naval base in Alaska and the North Pacific at the beginning of World War II. Ships and submarines from Naval Base Kodiak played a critical role in the Aleutian campaign.

Nearby Fort Greely supplied coast artillery and infantry troops to defend against possible invaders. Fort Abercrombie was established as a sub-post of Fort Greely with a permanent 8-inch gun battery in 1943.

Kodiak Welcomes the U.S. Coast Guard

In 1947, the Coast Guard Air Station joined the naval base as an air detachment at Naval Air Station Kodiak. The U.S. Navy left Kodiak in 1971. The base is now known as Integrated Support Command Kodiak, the largest operating base of the U.S. Coast Guard in Kodiak, Alaska. Integrated Support Command Kodiak is homeport to USCGC Alex Haley, USCGC Storis, and USCGC Spar.

Naval Base Kodiak and Mesothelioma: The Dark History of the Base

Ships and aircraft that passed through Naval Base Kodiak were built using components that contained asbestos. Until the 1970s, asbestos was in common use because of its heat resistance, fire resistance, water resistance, and resistance to corrosion. It was cheap and readily available, so it could be found in wall insulation, floor and ceiling tiles, fire doors, valves, gaskets, boilers, turbines, incinerators, engine rooms, sealants, cement, hot water pipes, steam pipes, welding blankets, and rope.

It was later learned that material was also a health hazard, so asbestos exposure is now part of the base’s legacy. Workers at the base were exposed to asbestos without the benefit of protective clothing or gear.

Asbestosis is a scarring of the lungs brought on by inhaling asbestos fibers. It is characterized by shortness of breath, not coughing, and can lead to respiratory failure. Asbestosis is an irreversible condition that can also lead to an increased risk of developing mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Mesothelioma is an aggressive form of cancer that attacks the mesothelium, the lining that surrounds the lungs. It cannot be diagnosed for 20 to 50 years after initial asbestos exposure because the symptoms take so long to manifest. Symptoms of mesothelioma can mimic other illnesses such as pneumonia and lung cancer, so it is important to naval base workers to inform their doctors of their history of exposure to asbestos in order to obtain an accurate diagnosis.

Mesothelioma has no cure, and it is resistant to traditional cancer treatments like radiation and chemotherapy. After receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma, many patients only have about one year to live.

The Relationship Between Naval Base Kodiak and Mesothelioma and You

Naval Base Kodiak workers should monitor their health carefully and consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms associated with mesothelioma. People who worked at Naval Base Kodiak and are diagnosed with mesothelioma should also consider contacting a lawyer to discuss their legal rights.

Shipyard Asbestos Exposure: Your Next Steps

If you worked at Naval Base Kodiak and mesothelioma is your diagnosis, you need an experienced mesothelioma attorney to explain your rights and fight for compensation for you. At Nemeroff Law Firm, our team of mesothelioma lawyers has won settlements and verdicts for asbestos nationwide. Call us toll-free at 866-342-1929 or complete our online contact form for a free case evaluation. We’re here to fight for you.

Shipbuilding has a long proud, history of innovation, craftsmanship, and furthering the expansion of the human world. But shipbuilding from the not-so-distant past also leaves another legacy: mesothelioma from asbestos exposure. This is the story of mesothelioma from Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Company.

What you Need to Know About Mesothelioma From Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Company

Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Company began in the early 20th century as a machine shop and blacksmith shop. When it began to specialize in shipbuilding, the company used the materials common of the day. One of those materials was asbestos. Horribly, the exposure to that substance may haunt workers decades later.

The Early Years of Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Company

Bender Welding and Machine Company began as a sole proprietorship in 1919; the company was incorporated in 1923 and moved to a larger facility. While it began as a machine shop and blacksmith shop, in 1952, the company began to focus on building small tugboats and barges as well as top-side and dry dock repairs. The company name, however, did not change to Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Company until 1980. The Bender Welding and Machine Company’s first big job was the construction of Ladd Stadium in 1947.

Bender Shipbuilding in World War II

During World War II, Bender Welding and Machine Company helped construct Liberty ships for the U.S. Navy. The shipyard averaged building one ship every 43 days. Shipyard workers constructed ships for the British fleet even before the United States entered the war.

Bender Shipbuilding Today

The Bender Shipbuilding and Repair Company operates 12 yards with over 7,000 feet of deep water frontage. It also boasts 11 overhead cranes, a 64-ton floating derrick crane, four floating dry docks capable of lifting over 24,000 tons, and over 150,000 square feet of shop and warehouse space.

The Bender shipyard is one of only a few full-fledged shipbuilders in the country, operating around the clock. It is known for new ship construction, repair and conversion, dry dock facilities, and surplus marine equipment sales. Shipyard workers build, service, and repair many types of vessels, including push boats, riverboats, tugboats, shrimp boats, tuna seiners, crabbers, factory trawlers, offshore supply vessels, and passenger vessels. Over 800 Bender-built ships can be found in both private and commercial fleets around the world.

The Danger From Asbestos at Bender Shipyard

Asbestos, a hazardous material known for its fireproofing properties and resistance to corrosion, was commonly used in many shipbuilding components prior to the 1970s, including hot water pipes, steam pipes, boilers, turbines, incinerators, valves, gaskets, between decks and fire doors, and on bulkheads and cabin walls. Shipyard workers suffered asbestos exposure without the benefit of proper respiratory gear or clothing, putting them and their families at risk for contracting serious asbestos-related illnesses.

The risk of asbestos exposure for shipyard workers also extends to their families. Years later, even the families of shipbuilding workers exposed to asbestos at Bender are at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease. Those exposed to asbestos can carry the fibers home on their clothes, skin, and hair. Today, many workers and their families may have developed mesothelioma from Bender Shipbuilding asbestos exposure.

Mesothelioma From Bender Shipbuilding Work: Important Information

Mesothelioma is a fatal form of cancer that attacks the mesothelium in the lungs. Symptoms of mesothelioma do not present until 20 to 50 years after initial asbestos exposure. In fact, when patients are first diagnosed, their symptoms are often mistaken as indicating lung cancer or pneumonia. Doctors often don’t consider a diagnosis of mesothelioma unless they know there is a prior history of asbestos exposure. Once mesothelioma is diagnosed, the prognosis generally gives the patient less than one year to live.

Bender Shipbuilding workers should monitor their health carefully and consult a doctor if they experience any symptoms associated with mesothelioma. Anyone who worked at Bender Shipbuilding in Mobile and is diagnosed with mesothelioma should also consider contacting a lawyer to discuss his or her legal rights.

What to do if You’ve Been Diagnosed With Mesothelioma From Bender Shipbuilding

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma from Bender Shipbuilding, you need to talk to an experienced mesothelioma attorney. At Nemeroff Law Firm, we have years of experience obtaining settlements and judgments for asbestos victims nationwide to help alleviate the financial burdens caused by this devastating disease. Call us at 866-342-1929 or fill out our online contact form for a free case evaluation. At Nemeroff Law Firm, we fight for you.

Mesothelioma cancer cases are difficult. The people and companies that could have prevented your illness do not want to be held responsible, and they have more financial resources than you do. They dismiss your concerns or low-ball you with a settlement that is to their benefit. Put them on notice that you are up to the fight by choosing an experienced mesothelioma trial attorney, one who will work to hold them accountable and obtain the financial compensation you and your family deserve.

What is a trial lawyer’s strength? Making your opponent dread going to court.

The Advantage of a Mesothelioma Trial Attorney

Assume you have never been to New York City, but find yourself with an urgent reason to go. Driving in NYC is notoriously difficult. You can try it on your own, try to navigate public transportation, or hire a car with an experienced NYC driver. Given the importance of the trip, your best choice is the experienced driver who knows how to avoid congestion and construction and knows the best route to get you to your appointment on time. An attorney experienced in mesothelioma cases is much like that NYC driver.

An experienced mesothelioma trial lawyer knows how to navigate each trial court’s procedures, knows the laws that affect your case, collaborates with others to your benefit, and knows all about cases that are similar to yours.

Look for an outstanding communicator who is comfortable in a courtroom and who is good at persuading attorneys, judges, witnesses, experts, and juries. An experienced trial attorney will be good at “reading the room” and will organize your case in the best way possible within the structure of court rules.

A Good Mesothelioma Trial Attorney Has a Strong Support Team

The best mesothelioma trial attorneys are backed by strong support teams. Their law firms are staffed by trial attorneys with deep experience in asbestos cases and experienced support staff. These firms have access to monetary resources, as well as to experts in the medical, industrial, and science fields. And they also have up-to-date research tools, which allow them to stay current on changes that are critical to your case.

How to Find the Best Mesothelioma Trial Lawyer for You

It’s hard to avoid television commercials asking you to call mesothelioma attorneys about your case. They would like to speak with you. You have some questions to ask them:

How many mesothelioma cases have they taken to trial?

How many mesothelioma cases have they taken to trial in your state?

How many trials resulted in damages being awarded to the plaintiff? What were the damages?

If you are not comfortable with the answer to the last question, find another attorney. Trial attorneys experienced with mesothelioma patients have a passion for getting justice for their clients, who have been wronged by people and corporations who could have prevented their disease from occurring. The relationship between the client (you) and your attorney is crucial.

Our Mesothelioma Trial Attorneys are Passionate About Your Case

The mesothelioma diagnosis that you or your loved one received is devastating. Nemeroff Law Firm has mesothelioma trial attorneys who work nationwide on behalf of victims and their families. We can help you get the compensation you need to pay for the costs of medical treatment and provide support for your family. You are not alone. Contact us today at 866-342-1929, or email us at info@nemerofflaw.com.