Mesothelioma is one of the rarest forms of cancer that tragically claims thousands of American lives every year. However, due to the relative rarity of this cancer, there are many commonly perpetuated myths and misunderstandings.
Here are three well-meaning but misunderstood myths that have been debunked by research within the medical community.
Mesothelioma Is a Deadly Form of Lung Cancer
Although it is true that exposure to mesothelioma can cause lung cancer (as well as mesothelioma and asbestosis, all of which can be fatal), the fact remains that there are distinct differences. Yes, mesothelioma affects the "lining of the lungs", but this does not mean that they are the same. Lung cancer develops within the tissue of the lungs, whereas mesothelioma often develops in the lung’s lining.
Also, lung cancer is caused by asbestos and other factors like pollution or smoking cigarettes. Mesothelioma, by contrast, is caused solely by asbestos exposure insofar as we know.
Repeated Asbestos Exposure Is the Only Way to Receive a Mesothelioma Diagnosis
Some believe that one must be regularly and repeatedly exposed to asbestos in order to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. In fact, some research has suggested that a single exposure to asbestos may be all that is necessary to be diagnosed with the disease.
It is true that being exposed to mesothelioma regularly and for long periods of time increases the likelihood of developing the disease, but small amounts have still been found to cause mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma Is a Form of Cancer That Affects Old People and Men
The latency period for developing mesothelioma after exposure to asbestos typically ranges between 20 and 50 years. Naturally, this means that most victims of the disease are diagnosed as elderly patients. This does not mean, however, that young people cannot be diagnosed with mesothelioma.
Some patients are diagnosed as soon as 10 years after their exposure to asbestos, which can occur well before middle age, even if unusual. Additionally, mesothelioma is not just a "male" disease, even though this myth is commonly believed because most industrial workers exposed to asbestos happen to be men. However, it is also known that asbestos has caused mesothelioma in wives and other family members who were at home washing the asbestos-containing cloths of a family member who was an industrial worker.
As such, this is a disease that can and does affect men and women of all ages.
Talk to a Mesothelioma Lawyer at Ledger Law
As you can see, there are many misconceptions about mesothelioma. Get the facts and discuss your right to compensation by discussing your mesothelioma diagnosis and legal claim with a mesothelioma attorney at The Ledger Law Firm.
Our team of mesothelioma lawyers has earned national acclaim for helping deserving victims receive the critically important funds to cover rising medical costs. No less important, we help victims and loved ones hold responsible parties accountable for wrongly exposing the mesothelioma victim to the well-established harms of asbestos.
Contact us online today to discuss your claim via a free consultation today.
