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Asbestos Cancer

Frequent contact with asbestos increases the risk of developing cancer. Mesothelioma is the most commonly occurring form of this condition, characterized by tumors forming around certain organs. However, it's not the only kind of cancer it causes. The substance can also lead to cancer of the lungs, gastrointestinal system, colon, kidneys, and breasts, just to name a few. It can also lead to leukemia.

Asbestos Cancer Types

  • Lung cancer: This condition may exist in two forms, small-cell and non-small-cell. Each form has different symptoms, treatment options, and prognoses.
  • Gastrointestinal cancer: This form of cancer does not show symptoms at first but may spread to the liver, where it causes redness in the face and neck, stomach upset, and shortness of breath.
  • Colorectal cancer: The second biggest killer among cancers in the country, colorectal cancer occurs when cells in the rectum or colon divide abnormally, causing  bloody stool, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and weight loss. Factors, such as family and medical history, may bring about the disease as well as asbestos exposure. 
  • Kidney cancer: In this form of cancer, tumors form inside the kidney and then quickly spread to other parts of the body. It occurs when asbestos fibers travel through the digestive tract and become lodged in the kidneys.
  • Breast cancer: The link between breast cancer and asbestos is present, although it is not terribly strong. Statistically, women who have been exposed to asbestos are more likely to develop breast cancer, which primarily starts in the mammary glands and may spread to other parts of the body. Primarily, the condition develops as a result of genetics. External factors, such as smoking, may cause the disease, too.
  • Leukemia: This form of cancer affects the blood and bone marrow. It usually affects people 65 or older, but it can also form when people are exposed to asbestos or have a family history of the disease.
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Treatment

A number of treatment options are available. Similar to malignant mesothelioma, asbestos cancers are best treated early on. During this time, surgery may be an option. At that point, a surgeon will attempt to remove the cancerous tumors.

For those patients in a later stage, surgery may still be an option, but doctors may not be able to remove all of the tumors. Rather, surgery can relieve pain and improve quality of life. Chemotherapy and radiation therapies can help alleviate symptoms and extend the patient's life span. They are often used in conjunction with surgery.

To learn about other possibilities, Mesolink.org offers a free informational packet that includes the most cutting-edge asbestos cancer treatment options available today. We also work to put patients in touch with the top doctors and facilities throughout the country as well as lawyers who can help you receive due compensation. Please call us or fill out our form. Put our experience to work for you.

Want to know Your Legal Options?

Learn more about your legal options with a Free Mesothelioma Case Evaluation. Find out about how you may be eligible for:

  • Claims
  • Settlements
  • Trust Funds
  • Bankruptcies
  • Other Potential Benefits

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