Mesothelioma and Asbestos

At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, our law firm provides legal representation for individuals diagnosed with work-related mesothelioma or asbestos injuries. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart and is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos.

Asbestos is a mineral that was commonly used in construction materials, automotive parts, and other products throughout the 20th century. Despite its known health risks, asbestos was not banned in the United States until the late 1980s. As a result, many workers’ exposed to asbestos in their jobs now suffer from mesothelioma or other asbestos-related illnesses.

At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, our legal team is committed to fighting for the rights of these individuals and their families and helping them seek justice and compensation for their injuries.

Work-Related Mesothelioma and Asbestos Statistics in Florida

According to the Environmental Working Group (EWG), Florida has one of the highest mesothelioma death rates in the United States. From 1999 to 2018, 2,869 recorded deaths from mesothelioma in Florida, with an average of 143 deaths per year. These deaths are primarily attributed to occupational exposure to asbestos.

Florida has a large population of retired individuals, many of whom worked in industries that used asbestos, such as construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing, before the regulations and bans on asbestos. Additionally, Florida’s warm climate makes it an attractive location for shipyards and other industries that have historically used asbestos in their products.

It’s important to note that mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning individuals exposed to asbestos several decades ago may just now be experiencing symptoms of the disease. This makes it difficult to accurately determine the number of current mesothelioma cases in Florida.

However, despite the challenges in tracking mesothelioma cases, it’s clear that Florida has a significant mesothelioma mortality rate, highlighting the importance of continued awareness and prevention efforts to protect workers’ from asbestos exposure.

What Are the Most Common Aesbostos-Related Diseases?

The most common asbestos-related diseases are:

• Mesothelioma: This is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart and is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos.
• Lung cancer: Exposure to asbestos increases the risk of developing lung cancer. This risk is particularly high for individuals who smoke.
• Asbestosis: This is a chronic lung condition that results from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. It causes scarring of the lungs, which can make it difficult to breathe.
• Pleural plaques: These are areas of thickening in the lining of the lungs, called the pleura, caused by exposure to asbestos. While not cancerous, they can cause discomfort and affect lung function.
• Pleural effusion: The buildup of fluid in the space between the lungs and the chest wall, which can be caused by mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

It’s important to note that these diseases often have a long latency period, meaning symptoms may not appear until many years after the initial exposure to asbestos. Additionally, the severity of these diseases can vary depending on the duration and intensity of the asbestos exposure. If you have been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to monitor your health and speak with a medical professional about any concerns.

What Are the Types of Mesothelioma?

There are several types of mesothelioma, which are classified based on the location in the body where the cancer develops:

• Pleural mesothelioma: This is the most common type, accounting for around 75% of cases. It develops in the lining of the lungs, called the pleura.
• Peritoneal mesothelioma: This type of mesothelioma develops in the lining of the abdomen, called the peritoneum. It accounts for around 20% of mesothelioma cases.
• Pericardial mesothelioma: This is a rare form of mesothelioma that develops in the heart’s lining, called the pericardium. It accounts for less than 1% of cases.
• Testicular mesothelioma: This is the rarest type of mesothelioma and develops in the lining of the testicles. It accounts for less than 1% of cases.

Regardless of the type of mesothelioma, it is typically caused by exposure to asbestos. The symptoms and treatment options for each type of mesothelioma may vary, so it’s important to consult with a medical professional if you suspect you may have been exposed to asbestos or are experiencing any related symptoms.

Our Attorneys Can Help You with Your Workers’ Compensation Claim

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease, it’s important to seek the help of an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. These diseases are often the result of workplace exposure to asbestos, and you may be entitled to compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

A workers’ compensation attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and advocate for your rights. They can investigate your case, identify liable parties, and pursue all available legal options on your behalf. Additionally, an attorney can help you access specialized medical care and support services to improve your quality of life and overall health.

At Sternberg | Forsythe, PA, we are committed to fighting for the rights of individuals and families affected by mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Our experienced attorneys deeply understand the legal and medical issues involved in these cases. We have a proven track record of success in securing significant client compensation.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or an asbestos-related disease, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation. We are here to help you navigate this challenging time and pursue the justice and compensation you deserve.