Asbestos-related illnesses are serious for victims

Unfortunately, a variety of serious, and sometimes fatal, disease and illnesses can result from asbestos exposure. Victims may face real harm and damages that can include physical, financial and emotional harm. Additionally, families may face significant harm when they have lost a loved one to an asbestos-related illness. It is important for victims and their families to be familiar with the legal protections available to victims of asbestos exposure-related diseases.

Victims may be able to recover damages for the harm they have suffered, including medical expenses, lost wages and pain and suffering damages, through a personal injury claim for the harm suffered and damages may also be available to surviving family members through a wrongful death claim for damages. There are several different types of illnesses related to asbestos exposure which occurs when asbestos fibers are kicked up, inhaled and lodged in the lungs.

Asbestos-related illnesses and diseases include mesothelioma which is a cancer that occurs in the lining of the lungs and other abdominal organs; asbestosis which is the scarring of the lungs and leads to significant respiratory problems; pleural plaques which refer to scarring of the lining of the lungs; lung cancer; and G-I tract cancers such as stomach cancers, intestinal cancers and some other types of cancers which can occur when asbestos fibers migrate in the body.

Unfortunately, all asbestos-related illnesses can be serious and can result in suffering and death for victims and their families. As a result, victims and their families should be familiar with the legal protections available to them to help with the challenges associated with asbestos exposure and asbestos illnesses.