Research published just last month by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) highlighted how an estimated 2,803 mesothelioma patients lose their lives to this rare but deadly form of cancer every year in the U.S.

Given how this cancer is so rare in our country, few people understand a lot about it, including what body parts it affects. And, if someone does know anything about this aggressive disease, most times, all they are aware of is that it can affect one’s lungs.

In 1989, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) issued a national ban on asbestos-containing products. Unfortunately, that ban came after decades of asbestos use in construction. Removing that dangerous material leads to new levels of exposure, and it remains a problem to this day. Case in point: The U.S. Department of Labor recently alleged a subcontractor knowingly exposed employees to asbestos during the demolition of a Waukegan hospital.

Asbestos exposure can sometimes manifest in a severe form of cancer known as mesothelioma. Although the American Cancer Society reports that only 3,000 cases of mesothelioma-related cancer are diagnosed each year, those results can devastate a family. It is especially troublesome when you consider that exposure to asbestos could be mitigated to prevent mesothelioma. Getting tested for mesothelioma is the first step toward dealing with the disease.

Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer, one that’s primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the United States every year, and roughly 80% of these cases report asbestos exposure, according to the American Lung Association.

Making one’s way from diagnosis to treatment and its repercussions can be an overwhelming experience, and then having to navigate the complexities of taking legal action to get fair compensation can add another layer of difficulty and frustration.

This is where a specialized mesothelioma lawyer becomes invaluable.

There are as many as 1,700 or more superfund sites dotted across the United States, per the National Geographic Society. While asbestos fibers can be found on many of these sites, if they cannot, then as many as 600 other carcinogenic hazardous chemicals can.

As of July 2023, a local WCIA news story chronicled how there were 69 Illinois superfund sites at the time of publication. Asbestos fibers have been found at some of them in the soil or water.

The number of superfund sites in Illinois and nationwide is ever-changing as remediation (cleanup) efforts are initiated and completed.

Mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer, is primarily known to affect individuals with direct exposure to asbestos.

However, emerging research has shed light on the potential risks of secondary asbestos exposure.

Understanding the implications of secondary exposure is crucial for protecting the health and well-being of individuals who may have been indirectly exposed to asbestos fibers.

Losing a loved one to mesothelioma is a devastating experience, compounded by the knowledge that their illness was likely caused by exposure to asbestos.

In the midst of grief, navigating the legal process to file a mesothelioma claim in Chicago can feel overwhelming. However, understanding the steps involved and seeking the right support can ease the burden during this challenging time.

Facts You Need to Know About Mesothelioma

In today’s world, where information is abundant yet often overwhelming, it’s essential to clearly understand health conditions that can affect us or our loved ones.

Mesothelioma, a rare but aggressive form of cancer, is one such condition that requires attention and awareness. From its causes to its symptoms and treatment options, here are the key facts you need to know about mesothelioma.

About 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma in the United States every year, and roughly 80% of these cases report asbestos exposure.