Mesothelioma In Uk

Mesothelioma Cases on the Rise in the UK

 

The Health Safety Executive or HSE as it is popularly known has published the latest statistics for asbestos induced mesothelioma deaths. And the statistics are not looking good for UK residents. Mesothelioma is a rare type of cancer that affects those workers and people who have directly or indirectly inhaled asbestos. A painful disease with devastating long terms effects, mesothelioma is gaining wide coverage due to awareness created in the print and electronic media.
According to the HSE statistics the number of deaths has increased to 1,969 victims in the year 2004 from 153 people that died due to mesothelioma in the year 1969. Within the next 4-8 years it is expected that the deaths will escalate to an estimated 2,450 per year. An alarmingly high increase that should ring alarm bells in the government corridors and medical boards.
The statistical information with regards to mesothelioma and asbestos related deaths are thoroughly verified and checked by HSE using a comprehensive system of records, death certificates and cross-checking cancer registrations. This information is also up on the internet for general public reading and can be easily accessed and downloaded from the HSE website.
According to HSE statistical report, the workers from the following businesses are most vulnerable to asbestos induced cancers. All these industries made extensive use of asbestos fibers before strict rules and regulations were enforced to limit asbestos.

• Construction business
• Energy business
• Water supply business
• Manufacturing business
• Shipbuilding business
• Railway engineering business

You can also find the geographical distribution of mesothelioma deaths in the HSE report, which gives a breakdown of statistics in areas with such high incidence rate of mesothelioma deaths. The reason for such high mesothelioma rates in these locations is due to a large presence of ports, shipyards and dockyards. In Scotland these are some of the geographical locations with high mesothelioma deaths: West Dunbartonshire, East Dunbartonshire, Fife, Glasgow City, Inverclyde and Renfrewshire.
In the North East parts of Great Britain mesothelioma mortalities are usually in:

• Hartlepool
• Middlesbrough
• Redcar
• Cleveland
• Stockton on Tees
• All LAs in Tyne and Wear Metropolitan County
• Blythe Valley in Northumberland

In the South East divisions of Great Britain mesothelioma mortalities are usually in:

• The UAs of Isle of White
• Medway
• Portsmouth
• Southampton
• The LAs of Farehma
• Gosport
• Havant
• New Forest in Hampshire

You can find other geographical locations for increasing mesothelioma mortalities in the detailed and updated HSE report. A major consequence of mesothelioma deaths has been a sharp rise in the number of lawsuits filed by victims and their families to get monetary compensation. Another consequence has been that all the industries are now pumping money in research to find suitable replacements for asbestos fibers. What will this eventually lead to is something to watch out for in the coming years.

source: http://www.mesotheliomaresourceonline.com

Mesothelioma Law: Modern Day Risks Involving Asbestos Exposure

Twenty-first century, mesothelioma law has increased considerably as so many unfortunate cases of this asbestos-related cancer emerge after nearly decades of dormancy in workers with exposure risks.  This terminal form of cancer often remains undetected until symptoms begin to surface in this disease's advanced stages.  Sadly, mesothelioma law can become a difficult process for victims and their family's to cope with – especially when faced with large-scale legal battles involving occupational exposures from ten to twenty; or even more years ago.

When faced with the growing rate of mesothelioma diagnoses; it is absolutely necessary for mesothelioma law to bring irresponsible companies and other agencies to justice.  Ultimately, those professionals who practice mesothelioma law, not only help the existing victims of asbestos exposure, they also help to prevent further incidences in the future; in many cases.  There is no telling exactly how widespread this problem may actually be.  Especially with the long periods of time this serious ailment may lurk within a body before becoming cancerous.  It is estimated that nearly 3,000 Americans are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year.   Sadly many people are only now finding out about their unlawful exposure to this highly toxic material from previous decades.

Mesothelioma law also investigates modern tragedies that may create environmental or occupational asbestos exposure; or both.  September 11 is one such disaster that may be recalled very clearly.  With the resulting debris and dust generated from the attacks of the Twin Towers, there may also have been asbestos particles released.  Thousands of rescue workers and surrounding New York citizens may have been adversely affected by this extreme environmental hazard.

Really anyone that works within the construction, mining, automotive or asbestos-removal industries may find themselves placed at risk at various points throughout their career.  Due to this sustained risk, many mesothelioma law professionals often create informative websites to present a wide variety of information to asbestos victims and their families.  One invaluable resource is www.mesotheliomanews.com.  This unique web source provides extensive details on medical information and innovations for mesothelioma as well as a complete range of legal advice, general asbestos info and help finding support groups.

For anyone dealing with asbestos-related diseases or cancers, it may be beneficial to locate a mesothelioma law firm.  These experienced mesothelioma law professionals can assist in evaluating and preparing a potential case that may result in a substantial settlement – if a responsible party is found to be at fault for asbestos exposure of employees or a surrounding environment.  Make Baron and Budd, P.C. your mesothelioma law firm of choice, contact them today for a free consultation.

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Some Basic Details of a Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Unfortunately, our world is one in which exist a number of organizations and individuals who may injure a person through misconduct and negligence.  Quite often, a mesothelioma lawsuit may seek compensation from more than one defendant.  In fact, there have been many notable asbestos cases with 40 or more defendants.  Defendants are selected based on past occupational and environmental risks.  This is typical in a mesothelioma lawsuit, because many individuals possess a history with several different manufacturers and employers.  These relationships establish the basis of a client's (or plaintiff's) complaint that officially comprises the initiation of a mesothelioma lawsuit.
There are basically two plaintiff types in a mesothelioma lawsuit.  These include one type, in which, the actual affected individual(s) begins a mesothelioma lawsuit in an effort to receive damages for their injuries.  This type of mesothelioma lawsuit is known as a personal injury lawsuit for living victims of asbestos exposure.  The second type involves family, such as a spouse or children, and is most frequently referred to as a wrongful death lawsuit.  As the mesothelioma lawsuit progresses, each defending party will respond to the complaint entered in court.  These answers are reviewed by the plaintiff and each party enters into a discovery process that may include a number of interrogatories, depositions, record releases and witness testimony; among other items.
The average mesothelioma lawsuit is settled before it goes all the way to trial.  However, the progression of each case is an individual process that may continue through jury selection and perhaps, even hours before the actual jury trial is scheduled before a defendant offers a mesothelioma settlement.  Often, the dates leading up to a trial are stressful and anxious for all involved parties.
Once a mesothelioma settlement is granted, payment may be provided in varying time frames.  This is largely because many companies charged with misconduct are also paying damages to others for similar personal injuries.  It is not unheard of, for payouts to occur in time periods spanning from several months to years after the agreed upon mesothelioma settlement.  In some lamentable cases, a defendant may file bankruptcy, further prolonging the likelihood of payment delivery.  There are also some lawsuits that result in a schedule of multiple payments for damages rendered.
Anyone that knows a mesothelioma victim should spend some time researching the potential for a personal injury or wrongful death case.  Although a monetary settlement could never replace a loved one, it sometimes offers comfort to individuals facing this terminal illness, to know that their family will receive restitution that is substantial enough to make a positive impact in their lives.  Trust the mesothelioma lawyers at Baron and Budd, P.C. for total guidance through the process of a mesothelioma lawsuit.

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FAQ's for Those Searching for Reputable Mesothelioma Lawyers

If you or a loved one is a victim of mesothelioma, then there are some facts you may wish to consider.  It is not uncommon for many people to be a little uncertain when it comes to consulting mesothelioma lawyers for advice and even potential lawsuits to claim damages.  Don't be overwhelmed when searching for legal advice.  Get started on your path to legal guidance by reading through this assortment of frequently asked questions provided by knowledgeable mesothelioma lawyers.
Is it true that asbestos is still a viable occupational hazard in the twenty-first century?
Although asbestos was primarily mined and used in various manufacturing operations and products between the years of 1940 and 1979, there are still many unfortunate cases involving its use today.  In fact, nearly 125 million people were still exposed to asbestos in 2010 around the globe through their work alone, despite the fact that there are a large number of synthetic materials proven to be much safer.  Mesothelioma lawyers have helped many victims of asbestos exposure receive payment for personal damages resulting from occupational or environmental exposure to this substance.
What occupations do mesothelioma lawyers feel are most at risk for asbestos exposure today?
Most of the occupations that are at risk for exposure today exist within the construction industry.  Many construction workers may come in contact with this dangerous mineral as a component of construction materials; and especially in the renovation or demolition of structures, which are known to contain asbestos.  Other at risk positions include workers in equipment or building maintenance.  Additionally, a number of rescue workers may have been exposed to this and other toxic substances during the tragic disaster of September 11.  Although there are stringent bans and restrictions in place throughout the United States, there are still many countries around the world that have not banned the use of asbestos.  Mesothelioma lawyers are well-versed in the unfortunate listing of risky occupations and environments for workers who may come into contact with asbestos while employed.
Is there any recourse for workers or individuals coping with asbestos-related exposure and illnesses?
Yes there is.  Today's mesothelioma lawyers are experts at understanding the legislative process, which may help to satisfy a portion of the damages suffered by victims of mesothelioma and their families.  There are a number of legal precedents and restrictions in place that seriously affect any company or organization's ability to haphazardly expose workers to such a toxic material.  These experienced mesothelioma lawyers know exactly how to accomplish a settlement that provides some small relief to workers and their families that have been unfairly exposed for business gain.
If you or anyone you know is dealing with the tragic illness of mesothelioma, or other asbestos-related cancer, then you may want to consider contacting one of the mesothelioma lawyers at Baron and Budd, P.C.  With a proven track record for helping victims around the United States, these mesothelioma lawyers know how to obtain a fair settlement for unlawful exposure to asbestos.
Sources:
1.)    11 December 2010 .
Haining Yang, Zeyana Rivera, Sandro Jube, Masaki Nasu, Pietro Bertino, Chandra Goparaju, Guido Franzoso, Michael T. Lotze, Thomas Krausz, Harvey I. Pass, Marco E. Bianchi, and Michele Carbone. Programmed necrosis induced by asbestos in human mesothelial cells causes high-mobility group box 1 protein release and resultant inflammation. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2010; DOI:10.1073/pnas.1006542107

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Some Basic Details of a Mesothelioma Lawsuit

Unfortunately, our world is one in which exist a number of organizations and individuals who may injure a person through misconduct and negligence.  Quite often, a mesothelioma lawsuit may seek compensation from more than one defendant.  In fact, there have been many notable asbestos cases with 40 or more defendants.  Defendants are selected based on past occupational and environmental risks.  This is typical in a mesothelioma lawsuit, because many individuals possess a history with several different manufacturers and employers.  These relationships establish the basis of a client's (or plaintiff's) complaint that officially comprises the initiation of a mesothelioma lawsuit.

There are basically two plaintiff types in a mesothelioma lawsuit.  These include one type, in which, the actual affected individual(s) begins a mesothelioma lawsuit in an effort to receive damages for their injuries.  This type of mesothelioma lawsuit is known as a personal injury lawsuit for living victims of asbestos exposure.  The second type involves family, such as a spouse or children, and is most frequently referred to as a wrongful death lawsuit.  As the mesothelioma lawsuit progresses, each defending party will respond to the complaint entered in court.  These answers are reviewed by the plaintiff and each party enters into a discovery process that may include a number of interrogatories, depositions, record releases and witness testimony; among other items.

The average mesothelioma lawsuit is settled before it goes all the way to trial.  However, the progression of each case is an individual process that may continue through jury selection and perhaps, even hours before the actual jury trial is scheduled before a defendant offers a mesothelioma settlement.  Often, the dates leading up to a trial are stressful and anxious for all involved parties.

Once a mesothelioma settlement is granted, payment may be provided in varying time frames.  This is largely because many companies charged with misconduct are also paying damages to others for similar personal injuries.  It is not unheard of, for payouts to occur in time periods spanning from several months to years after the agreed upon mesothelioma settlement.  In some lamentable cases, a defendant may file bankruptcy, further prolonging the likelihood of payment delivery.  There are also some lawsuits that result in a schedule of multiple payments for damages rendered.

Anyone that knows a mesothelioma victim should spend some time researching the potential for a personal injury or wrongful death case.  Although a monetary settlement could never replace a loved one, it sometimes offers comfort to individuals facing this terminal illness, to know that their family will receive restitution that is substantial enough to make a positive impact in their lives.  Trust the mesothelioma lawyers at Baron and Budd, P.C. for total guidance through the process of a mesothelioma lawsuit.

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Mesothelioma Settlements – Some FAQ's

Considering a legal battle regarding mesothelioma and asbestos exposure can be a scary prospect.  However, with the right mesothelioma legal professionals, the process can flow much smoother and most often with better results; including mesothelioma settlements.  There are number of questions that many people may have regarding mesothelioma settlements.  Below are just a few of the concerns we have heard in recent years.

Are mesothelioma settlements typically subject to income tax fees and requirements?
Generally speaking, settlement money earned from a personal injury is not taxable by most states.  This same principle applies to a mesothelioma settlement.  However, taxes are charged to the representing Attorney who earns profits from a mesothelioma settlement's contingency fee.  If mesothelioma settlement monies are invested, then taxes will be applied to interest earned from this personal injury.

What options exist for individuals with limited income, when seeking a mesothelioma settlement?
Quite often, attorneys will offer a special contract for legal services.  This contract provides all the necessary legal guidance and representation, with no upfront costs.  When a mesothelioma settlement is achieved, the attorney will take a portion of the payoff as their contingency fee.  If a mesothelioma settlement is not possible, the contract releases a client from all financial responsibility.  With this type of contract, a client has virtually no risk in attempting to obtain a fair and deserved mesothelioma settlement.

How does the Statute of Limitations affect a potential settlement?
In all personal injury cases, each state permits a certain amount of time to pass before the ability to bring a lawsuit expires.  This time period varies depending on the state, but in many cases it runs around two years.  With an illness that's characteristic evolution involves several years, or even decades, of dormancy, like mesothelioma; there are some difficulties in meeting the typical Statutes of Limitations throughout the United States.  For fairness, most states have adopted the Discovery Rule, which enables individuals to bring suit within a specified time period after diagnosis from any latent illness, like mesothelioma.  The Discovery Rule is just another way the legal system has responded to right many of the negligent wrongdoings of companies and organizations; ensuring justice and protection for any individuals seeking their rightful, mesothelioma settlement – even decades after asbestos exposure.

How soon should an attorney be contacted after diagnosis?
For the best mesothelioma settlement possible, it is highly recommend that an attorney be contacted soon after a diagnosis is received.  This ensures that the individual receiving legal assistance is in sound mind and body for initial testimony and official depositions regarding their experience with asbestos contamination.

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Mesothelioma: Questions and Answers

Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer in which malignant (cancerous) cells are found in the mesothelium, a protective sac that covers most of the body's internal organs. Most people who develop mesothelioma have worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles.

1. What is the mesothelium?
   The mesothelium is a membrane that covers and protects most of the internal organs of the body. It is composed of two layers of cells: One layer immediately surrounds the organ; the other forms a sac around it. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that is released between these layers, allowing moving organs (such as the beating heart and the expanding and contracting lungs) to glide easily against adjacent structures.
   
   The mesothelium has different names, depending on its location in the body. The peritoneum is the mesothelial tissue that covers most of the organs in the abdominal cavity. The pleura is the membrane that surrounds the lungs and lines the wall of the chest cavity. The pericardium covers and protects the heart. The mesothelial tissue surrounding the male internal reproductive organs is called the tunica vaginalis testis. The tunica serosa uteri covers the internal reproductive organs in women.
   
2. What is mesothelioma?
   Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a disease in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also metastasize (spread) from their original site to other parts of the body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or peritoneum.
   
3. How common is mesothelioma?
   Although reported incidence rates have increased in the past 20 years, mesothelioma is still a relatively rare cancer. About 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year. Mesothelioma occurs more often in men than in women and risk increases with age, but this disease can appear in either men or women at any age.
   
4. What are the risk factors for mesothelioma?
   Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases. However, mesothelioma has been reported in some individuals without any known exposure to asbestos.
   
   Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.
   
   Smoking does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma. However, the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure significantly increases a person's risk of developing cancer of the air passageways in the lung.
   
5. Who is at increased risk for developing mesothelioma?
   Asbestos has been mined and used commercially since the late 1800s. Its use greatly increased during World War II. Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos dust. Initially, the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not known. However, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma was later found among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction industries, and other tradespeople. Today, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure.
   
   The risk of asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer exposure time. However, some individuals with only brief exposures have developed mesothelioma. On the other hand, not all workers who are heavily exposed develop asbestos-related diseases.
   
   There is some evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.
   
6. What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
   Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. Symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma include weight loss and abdominal pain and swelling due to a buildup of fluid in the abdomen. Other symptoms of peritoneal mesothelioma may include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the mesothelium to other parts of the body, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
   
   These symptoms may be caused by mesothelioma or by other, less serious conditions. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
   
7. How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
   Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. Diagnosis begins with a review of the patient's medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete physical examination may be performed, including x-rays of the chest or abdomen and lung function tests. A CT (or CAT) scan or an MRI may also be useful. A CT scan is a series of detailed pictures of areas inside the body created by a computer linked to an x-ray machine. In an MRI, a powerful magnet linked to a computer is used to make detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures are viewed on a monitor and can also be printed.
   
   A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma. In a biopsy, a surgeon or a medical oncologist (a doctor who specializes in diagnosing and treating cancer) removes a sample of tissue for examination under a microscope by a pathologist. A biopsy may be done in different ways, depending on where the abnormal area is located. If the cancer is in the chest, the doctor may perform a thoracoscopy. In this procedure, the doctor makes a small cut through the chest wall and puts a thin, lighted tube called a thoracoscope into the chest between two ribs. Thoracoscopy allows the doctor to look inside the chest and obtain tissue samples. If the cancer is in the abdomen, the doctor may perform a peritoneoscopy. To obtain tissue for examination, the doctor makes a small opening in the abdomen and inserts a special instrument called a peritoneoscope into the abdominal cavity. If these procedures do not yield enough tissue, more extensive diagnostic surgery may be necessary.
   
   If the diagnosis is mesothelioma, the doctor will want to learn the stage (or extent) of the disease. Staging involves more tests in a careful attempt to find out whether the cancer has spread and, if so, to which parts of the body. Knowing the stage of the disease helps the doctor plan treatment.
   
   Mesothelioma is described as localized if the cancer is found only on the membrane surface where it originated. It is classified as advanced if it has spread beyond the original membrane surface to other parts of the body, such as the lymph nodes, lungs, chest wall, or abdominal organs.
   
8. How is mesothelioma treated?
   Treatment for mesothelioma depends on the location of the cancer, the stage of the disease, and the patient's age and general health. Standard treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Sometimes, these treatments are combined.
   
   
   • Surgery is a common treatment for mesothelioma. The doctor may remove part of the lining of the chest or abdomen and some of the tissue around it. For cancer of the pleura (pleural mesothelioma), a lung may be removed in an operation called a pneumonectomy. Sometimes part of the diaphragm, the muscle below the lungs that helps with breathing, is also removed.
     
   • Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, involves the use of high-energy rays to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors. Radiation therapy affects the cancer cells only in the treated area. The radiation may come from a machine (external radiation) or from putting materials that produce radiation through thin plastic tubes into the area where the cancer cells are found (internal radiation therapy).
     
   • Chemotherapy is the use of anticancer drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. Most drugs used to treat mesothelioma are given by injection into a vein (intravenous, or IV). Doctors are also studying the effectiveness of putting chemotherapy directly into the chest or abdomen (intracavitary chemotherapy).
   
   To relieve symptoms and control pain, the doctor may use a needle or a thin tube to drain fluid that has built up in the chest or abdomen. The procedure for removing fluid from the chest is called thoracentesis. Removal of fluid from the abdomen is called paracentesis. Drugs may be given through a tube in the chest to prevent more fluid from accumulating. Radiation therapy and surgery may also be helpful in relieving symptoms.
   
   
9. Are new treatments for mesothelioma being studied?
   Yes. Because mesothelioma is very hard to control, the National Cancer Institute (NCI) is sponsoring clinical trials (research studies with people) that are designed to find new treatments and better ways to use current treatments. Before any new treatment can be recommended for general use, doctors conduct clinical trials to find out whether the treatment is safe for patients and effective against the disease. Participation in clinical trials is an important treatment option for many patients with mesothelioma.
   
   People interested in taking part in a clinical trial should talk with their doctor. Information about clinical trials is available from the Cancer Information Service (CIS) (see below) at 1–800–4–CANCER. Information specialists at the CIS use PDQ®, NCI's cancer information database, to identify and provide detailed information about specific ongoing clinical trials. Patients also have the option of searching for clinical trials on their own. The clinical trials page on the NCI's Cancer.gov Web site, located at http://www.cancer.gov/clinicaltrials on the Internet, provides general information about clinical trials and links to PDQ.
   
   People considering clinical trials may be interested in the NCI booklet Taking Part in Cancer Treatment Research Studies. This booklet describes how research studies are carried out and explains their possible benefits and risks. The booklet is available by calling the CIS, or from the NCI Publications Locator Web site at http://www.cancer.gov/publications on the Internet.

Source: national cancer center