Indianapolis Mesothelioma Attorneys

Although it has several causes, mesothelioma is most often the result of asbestos exposure. This is particularly true with pleural mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura).

Asbestos is a fibrous material comprised of several naturally occurring minerals. When disturbed, asbestos releases microscopic fibers into the air, which can then be breathed in by those nearby. Once inhaled, these fibers can become lodged in the pleural lining of the lungs, as well as various other areas of the body, such as the abdomen. The body will naturally attempt to dislodge these fibers. This process can lead to various illnesses, including mesothelioma.

The signs and symptoms of mesothelioma differ somewhat depending on the type of cancer an individual has. For example, pain is likely to concentrate near or around the affected area (abdomen, chest, etc.).

However, some general signs of mesothelioma include:

• Fever
• Fatigue
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Excessive sweating

Mesothelioma of all types may also cause blood clots, which can be fatal.

Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most common type of mesothelioma. Malignant pleural mesothelioma has no known cure, though treatment can prolong an individual’s life expectancy and help ease some cancer symptoms.

Some of the most common symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include:

• Lower back pain
• Pain in the side of the chest
• Coughing
• Shortness of breath
• Difficulty speaking or swallowing
• Swelling of the arms and/or face

Unfortunately, because mesothelioma has such a long latency period—it can take years or even decades after the initial asbestos exposure and/or development of cancerous cells for symptoms to appear—mesothelioma is often not diagnosed until it has progressed to more advanced stages. As a result, the life expectancy of someone diagnosed with mesothelioma is considered relatively short.

Anyone exposed to asbestos fibers for a prolonged period of time is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Because asbestos has been historically used in a wide range of consumer products, this puts the general public at risk. However, certain individuals—including many types of workers—have a significantly higher chance of having been exposed to asbestos fibers and, therefore, developing mesothelioma.

According to numerous studies, the following individuals have an increased risk of having been/being exposed to asbestos:

• Industrial workers
• Miners
• Shipyard workers
• Military service members, specifically those in the U.S. Navy
• Construction workers
• Demolition workers
• Millwrights
• Insulators
• HVAC technicians
• Power plant workers
• Oil refinery workers

Additionally, people who smoke and who were exposed to/are exposed to asbestos are more at risk of developing mesothelioma. Other risk factors include exposure to radiation and genetics.

For decades, asbestos’ natural strength and fire-resistant properties made it a go-to material for construction, insulation, and consumer goods up until the 1970s. Despite data proving a link between asbestos exposure and occupational illness, asbestos manufacturers continued to create numerous products containing the harmful material throughout this time, all without warning the public.

At Hovde Dassow + Deets, we believe that asbestos manufacturers and other corporate entities should be held legally accountable for their failure to prioritize consumer safety over profits and personal gain. Our Indianapolis mesothelioma attorneys aggressively pursue litigation against these parties on behalf of affected individuals and families. We have more than a century of combined experience and know how to effectively advocate for the full, fair recovery you deserve.