»
What Is Mesothelioma?
»
What Is Asbestos?
»
At Risk Occupations
»
What to do if you have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma
»
Mesothelioma FAQs
»
Asbestos in New York
»
Legal Concerns
»
Mesothelioma Resources
HOME
Mesothelioma Statistics
Mesothelioma & Asbestos News
Important Questions to Ask a Mesothelioma
Lawyer
Mesothelioma Specialists, Treatment
Facilities, Support Groups
Cancer Center Report: Mastering Mesothelioma
|
|
|
What to do if you have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
Each year 2,500 to 4,000 patients in the
U.S. are
diagnosed with mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases. The greatest tragedy
of this crisis is that it could have been prevented. Thousands of individuals
and families have experienced pain and suffering, but companies did nothing, and
continued to expose exployees.
If you, or a family member, have been diagnosed with Mesothelioma you might
wonder - what next? Here are some recommended steps that can assist in this
difficult situation.
Understand the Disease
Educate yourself and your family about Mesothelioma.
Understand your diagnosis - was an early detection made? What diagnostic
procedures have been performed? More about
Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Staging is a method of evaluating the progress of cancer in a patient. It
looks at the mesothelioma and the extent to which it has developed and its
possible spread to other parts of the body. What is the clinical staging
of your disease? How advanced is the cancer? Understand
mesothelioma staging.
The only known cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. Even small amounts
of asbestos and infrequent exposure can cause injuries. Learn more about
asbestos exposure, and second-hand asbestos dangers. Did you, or a family
member, work in an at-risk occupation?
Did asbestos exposure occur at home? Did the mesothelioma victim work with
products containing
asbestos?
Mesothelioma has a long latency (inactive) period of anywhere between 15 – 50
years. Discuss risk factors and possible asbestos exposure with your physician.
Make use of available
mesothelioma publications, mesothelioma / medical journals, and stay
informed on the latest medical research.
Concentrate on Medical Care & Treatment
Unfortunately, most
prognoses for mesothelioma patients can be discouraging. However, there are
available treatments, and medical facilities specializing in the treatment of
mesothelioma. Find a medical professional with experience treating mesothelioma
patients. Mesothelioma Specialists
Medical research has led to the development of several available drugs for
mesothelioma treatment. Some of these advancements have resulted in improved
life expectancy and quality. Research clinical trials, discuss options with your
doctor, and follow your physician's advice for proper patient care.
Seek Support
Both mesothelioma
patients and their families need support to help respond to this change in their
lives. Find and participate in mesothelioma support groups. These support groups
can help you network with other sufferers, stay informed on disease treatments,
locate specialized medical care, and offer emotional support.
Mesothelioma Support
Groups
While no resource should replace the advice of your
medical professional(s), there are online discussion boards, groups, chat rooms,
and newsletters that offer access to the latest mesothelioma news, resources,
websites, research, and can connect you with other mesothelioma patients. Get
involved and develop a network of support for both the mesothelioma sufferer and
family members.
Evaluate your Legal Options
In most cases, mesothelioma was preventable. Exposure to asbestos is the only
known cause. Companies have knowingly placed their employees at risk, and their
negligence has inflicted pain and suffering on thousands of individuals and
families.
If you, or a family member, has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have a
legal right to seek compensation from those at fault. Contact experienced
mesothelioma lawyers to review your situation - they can help advise you of your
rights, provide you an overview of the legal process, and offer legal support.
While your priority should be medical care, do not wave your right to legal
assistance. Get a
Free Mesothelioma Case Evaluation.
|