Mesothelioma is an extremely rare form of cancer. In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that approximately 2,500 United States citizens are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year. It is not a particularly common form of cancer because it is caused from exposure to asbestos, a product that is rarely used in construction any more. Asbestos was popular in the late 19th century because of its resistance to fire, heat, chemical and electrical damage. In addition to being found in old buildings, asbestos can also be found on U.S. Navy ships.
According to the Mesothelioma Victims Center, one third of all U.S. mesothelioma victims served in the U.S Navy in states such as California, Virginia, Maine or Washington. Many of these veterans have since moved to other states and are beginning to experience the devastating side effects from their time spent exposed to asbestos.
In most mesothelioma cases, the symptoms do not manifest until many years after the exposure has occurred. In fact, the latency period can be as short as 10 years, but many victims are not diagnosed for about 40 years. This is unfortunate because if someone is not diagnosed for a few decades, the cancer may already be in a later stage of development. This means that there will be fewer treatment options available.
It is important for all U.S. Navy personnel to understand what the symptoms of mesothelioma are because early diagnosis is crucial. Depending on the type of mesothelioma, symptoms may include:
• Anemia
• Blood clotting disorder
• Chest pain
• Difficulty swallowing
• Bowel obstruction
• Nausea
• Weight loss
Anyone who has been diagnosed with mesothelioma would be well advised to discuss his or her legal options with a skilled Rhode Island Mesothelioma lawyer. It may be possible to pursue financial compensation for medical bills, loss of earnings, hospitalization, treatment and other damages.
