Mesothelioma is a frightening and aggressive cancer. It does not respond to many treatment methods and no cure is known. It has been discovered that mesothelioma is connected to asbestos exposure.
In the past, men in high-risk jobs were most at risk of developing cancer, which attacks organ linings in the body. However, in the past 20 years, the risk for women being diagnosed with mesothelioma has increased – but why?
Looking at the data, the problem becomes clear
With more manufacturers discontinuing their use of asbestos, women are beginning to be diagnosed with this deadly cancer. In fact, mesothelioma fatalities in women increased by 25% between 1999 and 2000.
It was discovered that homemakers were the most likely to show signs of mesothelioma, with social support professionals and health care workers close behind. While about 85% of men diagnosed with this cancer are directly connected to asbestos due to their job, this is the case for only 23% of women diagnosed with the condition.
For women who are diagnosed with mesothelioma and who do not have a work connection to asbestos, the road to recovering compensation is a challenging one. Cases of secondhand exposure because of a child, parent or spouse who works with asbestos may eventually lead to more compensation claims. Another factor contributing to this increase in cases is environmental exposure (which may be another actionable cause).
Your rights when diagnosed with mesothelioma
If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you have legal rights. People are dying all over the country due to asbestos exposure, and if you find yourself or someone in your family in this situation, it is imperative to hold the at-fault party liable. Knowing your rights and options is a good first step in doing this.