Mesothelioma On The Rise In Maine
A new federal agency report states that Maine has the highest rate of death resulting from Mesothelioma in the United States. A study from 1999-2005 showed that there were over 170 fatalities during those seven years in Maine alone. According to the report, Mesothelioma related deaths are expected to peak in 2010.
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is connected to asbestos. Most people who develop the disease were exposed to asbestos on worksites where they inhaled particles or were vulnerable to dust and fiber. Some of Maine’s largest employers used asbestos until the 1970’s when it was largely banned. Former employees of paper companies, chemical companies, and those who worked at shipyards are said to be most at risk.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma include shortness of breath and weight loss, however tend not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure. Other less common symptoms include bowel obstruction, blood clotting abnormalities, anemia, and fever. If the cancer has spread beyond the chest area, symptoms may include pain, trouble swallowing, or swelling of the neck or face.
Diagnosing Mesothelioma is often difficult, as many symptoms are similar to other medical conditions. Chest x-rays and lung function tests are commonly taken, followed by CT scan or MRI if the doctor deems necessary. If a large amount of fluid is detected, a biopsy is needed to confirm the disease. Once a doctor examines a sample of body tissue, only then can he or she diagnosis Mesothelioma. Most patients diagnosed are only given five to sixteen months to live.
Each year, nearly 3,000 people are diagnosed with Mesothelioma in the U.S. If someone you knew has died of Mesothelioma, there is a three year statute of limitations in Maine in which you must either settle the claim or commence a wrongful death lawsuit. Usually a lawsuit involves multiple past manufacturers of asbestos and is handled on a highly individualized basis, not as a class action.
Asbestos litigation is very complex and requires very specialized knowledge. At the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein, we partner with a law firm that is one of the leading asbestos specialty firms in the United States. Claims for wrongful death caused by Mesothelioma normally settle with multiple defendants for substantial sums on money. Many of the former asbestos manufacturers have sought bankruptcy protection as a way to limit their exposure to Mesothelioma claims. It is, however, still possible to obtain money settlements with the bankrupt defendants. All of this takes a very specialized approach to handling the claim.
If you or someone you know has Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, Colon Cancer, Esophageal Cancer, or Asbestosis, caused by exposure to asbestos, contact the Law Offices of Joe Bornstein today for a free and confidential consultation. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
The Law Offices of Joe Bornstein – Maine Lawyers Helping Maine People - Since 1974
