A study released earlier this month found that workers from a U.S. Coast Guard shipyard had a significantly greater chance of dying from mesothelioma (cancer of the lung’s lining) or lung cancer when compared to the general population. The study followed over four thousand civilian workers who were employed at the shipyard between 1950 and 1964. The study, available at http://oem.bmj.com/cgi/content/abstract/64/10/651, followed the workers through the end of 2001, and concluded that the increased risk of cancer is likely related to the workers’ asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma and lung cancer are both associated with exposure to asbestos. Of particular concern is the finding of increased rates of mesothelioma among the workers. Mesothelioma is an extremely rare form of cancer that is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma usually take decades to appear and are often confused with other respiratory ailments. Currently there is no cure for mesothelioma.
Because of mesothelioma’s association to asbestos exposure, most who contract the disease qualify to file a mesothelioma lawsuit. Many trust funds have been set up to compensate the victims of mesothelioma. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, immediately contact a mesothelioma lawyer to discuss your options.
For more information, please contact the Mesothelioma Lawyers at Williams Kherkher by calling 1.800.220.9341.