Causes of Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Lawyer in Maryland
In the United States, asbestos exposure has been indisputably linked to the development of mesothelioma.
In most cases of diagnosed mesothelioma, patients have a history of
long-term exposure to asbestos, particularly those who worked with
asbestos products during the course of their job. Although occupational
exposure is the most common cause, there are also cases that suggest
that environmental exposure can cause the disease, including higher
risks for those who live near naturally occurring asbestos.
Family
members can also be affected indirectly by secondhand asbestos
exposure. This is most typically caused by exposure to particles brought
home on clothing and hair by workers. As many building materials in
both commercial and residential properties contain asbestos, those who
undertake do-it-yourself projects, renovations or other similar
endeavors may also expose themselves to asbestos dust.
The
Law Offices of Peter Angelos, P.C. provides services and support to
victims who wish to learn more about pursuing compensation for their
damages. Contact us today to learn more about your case.
How does asbestos exposure cause mesothelioma?
Asbestos
was widely used in a number of industrial compounds and commercial
products to enhance strength and resistance to extreme temperatures.
When asbestos is inhaled, microscopic fibers can become lodged in the
outer lung tissue and within the mesothelium, or the tissue that
surrounds much of the body's internal organs. Over time, sometimes as
long as 30 years or more, these particles irritate the tissue, causing
inflammation and malignant scar tissue plaques that become the
foundation of the mesothelioma tumor. While the inhalation of these
particles typically results in pleural mesothelioma, the ingestion of
asbestos fibers is also the cause of peritoneal mesothelioma. The cause
of pericardial mesothelioma, the least common type of mesothelioma, is
not precisely known.