Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer, affects the thin tissue around the lungs, abdomen, and heart. This cancer is connected to exposure to asbestos fibers, a group of naturally occurring minerals utilized in many industries, including construction, automotive, and shipbuilding, for their heat-resistant and insulating qualities.
For Louisiana residents, the impact of this disease hits hard, as it is listed among the top ten states for mesothelioma cases. As of December 2023, the rate of new mesothelioma cases in Louisiana had reached 330, or 1.2 per 100,000 people, with a death rate of 114, or 0.9 per 100,000.
Who Is at Risk?
As mentioned, asbestos was used in a variety of industries throughout Louisiana. One of the main areas where residents may have encountered it is in the shipyards along the Mississippi River. For anyone working in and around the shipyards, such as pipe fitters, electricians, or even general laborers, asbestos could be found in the insulation, pipe coverings, and more.
Additionally, factory workers could have been exposed to asbestos, especially in factories that produced insulation or other materials used for construction. Which leads us to the construction site itself. Any building that may have used material containing asbestos could pose a risk for those living in or working on the site. This includes apartment buildings, schools, and even hospitals.
While simply being constructed from these materials doesn’t necessarily pose a risk, renovation projects that include sanding or other measures that might release asbestos fibers do. Additionally, roofers and insulators are at a higher risk due to the amount of dust and fibers found in the materials they commonly workaround.
What About Secondary Exposure?
It’s important to understand that secondary exposure is also possible and that this exposure can happen in your home. For instance, asbestos fibers in the laundry of at-risk workers may become airborne and enter family members’ lungs. Also, the fibers can fall off clothing and rest on furniture and other household items or family members themselves due to contact with an at-risk worker.
Unfortunately, it’s these secondary exposure cases that might fall through the cracks when you need help the most. Understanding your exposure and where you can get support is key.
Quick Facts About Mesothelioma
It’s important to understand that mesothelioma can develop decades after asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, when it is discovered, it is generally in an advanced stage, which makes treatment harder.
The aggressive nature of mesothelioma is characterized by rapid progression. Rapid growth and spread make cancer hard to control or eradicate. Mesothelioma has few therapeutic options and a poor prognosis due to its aggressiveness.
In addition, treatments are scarce and vary in effectiveness. Surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy are frequent, although their success depends on the patient’s health and cancer stage upon diagnosis. Because of this, patients diagnosed with mesothelioma have a high fatality rate.
Have You Been Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma can be disastrous for asbestos victims and their families. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s crucial to speak to someone about your legal rights. Even if your asbestos exposure was second-hand, you may be entitled to compensation.
At Landry & Swarr, our attorneys will take the time to answer your questions and ask a few of our own. We work hard to ensure that negligent employers are held accountable for your exposure, giving you the money you need to better navigate this difficult time.
You can contact our team for a no-obligation consultation today. We’re available by phone at 504-299-1214, or you can come to our office at 1100 Poydras St. Energy Centre-Suite 2000, New Orleans, LA 70163.
Don’t hesitate. If you’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma, reach out to our team today.