Mesothelioma Options: What Now?

What if I have been exposed to asbestos?

If you were exposed to asbestos it does not mean that you have or will develop an asbestos-related disease (known as an ARD). But it does mean that you should:

• Notify your physician, if you have not done so already
• Receive regular medical care and check-ups

Asbestos diseases, like asbestosis and lung cancer, are dose-dependent. This means that high concentrations of asbestos dust exposure and/or exposure to asbestos again and again over the course of many years are more likely to lead to the development of an asbestos disease than a one-time, low-level exposure. However, there is no known safe level of asbestos exposure. If you have an extensive history of asbestos exposure, be sure to let your doctor know and receive regular checkups.

Mesothelioma is also considered dose-dependent, but it is important to note that lesser amounts of asbestos dust have been associated with mesothelioma. In the early part of the century, it is likely that workers exposed to high levels of asbestos died of asbestosis well before they could develop mesothelioma. As it is a rare cancer and difficult to diagnose, many more may have died from undiagnosed mesothelioma.

One of the first studies to link asbestos with mesothelioma showed the affect asbestos dust from an asbestos dust had on those who did not work at the mine but simply lived nearby. This bystander asbestos exposure can also occur among the families of asbestos workers, who carried the dust home on their clothing.

What if I have been diagnosed with a mesothelioma (or other asbestos-related disease)?

If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, you should:

Educate Yourself

• Not only will you be able to make informed decisions, but you are also your own best advocate.
• If you are unfamiliar with mesothelioma, learn more about what is mesothelioma (or asbestos lung cancer, or asbestosis)

Seek Medical Guidance

• Mesothelioma is a statistically rare cancer. Also known as an "orphan disease," because the numbers don't attract pharmaceutical companies and researchers like other conditions. Because of mesothelioma's rarity, most doctors never see a case of mesothelioma and these physicians are often not aware of the treatments and options available to mesothelioma patients.
• Seek out a mesothelioma specialist to treat your mesothelioma.
• Research available treatments, both traditional and novel.

Understand Your Legal Options

• You do not have to agree to file a lawsuit in order to talk with an asbestos attorney about your options. In some cases, compensation for mesothelioma or other asbestos diseases is available through trust fund applications.
• While treating your diagnosis is your first issue, there are laws which can prevent you from recovering compensation. Statutes of limitations or statutes of repose vary by state, but generally start at the date of diagnosis. Your option to pursue legal recourse can evaporate when this time expires, therefore it is advisable to speak with an asbestos attorney as soon as possible, even if you are undecided on what to do or unsure you wish to file a lawsuit.
• Make sure that your legal rights are being protected.

Embrace Support

• Join a support group; or if you are unsure if joining a support group is right for you, be aware that support resources are available, both for patients and caregivers.