Mesothelioma in Denver, Colorado: What You Need to Know

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on mesothelioma in Denver, Colorado. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about mesothelioma, including its causes, symptoms, treatment options, and legal rights for those affected. Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that can result from exposure to asbestos. Unfortunately, Denver has a history of asbestos use in various industries, putting many people at risk. Our goal is to provide you with the information necessary to protect yourself and your loved ones. Let’s dive in.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the mesothelium, which is the protective lining that covers most of the body’s internal organs. It most commonly affects the lungs, but can also occur in the abdomen or heart. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, which can be inhaled or ingested and then lodge in the mesothelium. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, leading to cancerous cells.

There are three main types of mesothelioma:

Type of Mesothelioma	Location
Pleural	Lungs and chest cavity
Peritoneal	Abdomen
Pericardial	Heart

The History of Asbestos Use in Denver

Denver has a history of asbestos use in various industries, including construction, insulation, automotive, and mining. Asbestos was once praised for its heat-resistant and insulating properties, but its health risks were not fully understood until many years later. As a result, many workers in these industries were exposed to asbestos without proper protection, putting them at risk for mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases.

Mesothelioma Symptoms

The symptoms of mesothelioma can take many years to appear after exposure to asbestos, often up to 20 or 30 years. This can make it difficult to diagnose the disease in its early stages. Here are some common symptoms of mesothelioma:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Coughing
• Fatigue
• Lumps under the skin
• Abdominal pain or swelling (for peritoneal mesothelioma)
• Irregular heartbeat or heart murmur (for pericardial mesothelioma)

Mesothelioma Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing mesothelioma requires a combination of imaging tests, such as X-rays or CT scans, and tissue biopsies. If mesothelioma is detected, treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. In addition to these standard treatments, there are also clinical trials available for new and experimental treatments.

Legal Rights for Mesothelioma Patients in Denver

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Denver, you may have legal rights to compensation. Many companies that used asbestos were aware of the health risks but failed to warn their employees or provide them with adequate protection. As a result, mesothelioma patients may be entitled to financial compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help you determine if you have a case.

FAQs

What is the life expectancy for a mesothelioma patient?

Life expectancy for mesothelioma patients depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, the patient’s age and overall health, and the type of mesothelioma. Generally, the prognosis for mesothelioma is poor, with a median survival time of 12 to 21 months.

Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

Currently, there is no known cure for mesothelioma, but there are treatments available that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

What is the difference between asbestos and mesothelioma?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was used in many industries for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that can result from exposure to asbestos.

How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?

Mesothelioma can take many years to develop after exposure to asbestos, often up to 20 or 30 years.

Who is at risk for mesothelioma?

People who have been exposed to asbestos, either at work or in their environment, are at risk for mesothelioma. This includes people who work in industries such as construction, insulation, automotive, and mining.

What are some common asbestos-containing products?

Some common asbestos-containing products include insulation, ceiling tiles, floor tiles, roofing materials, and brake pads.

Can mesothelioma be genetic?

Mesothelioma is not thought to be genetic, but there may be a small genetic component that increases the risk of developing the disease.

How can mesothelioma be prevented?

Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos. This includes wearing protective clothing and masks when working with asbestos-containing materials and avoiding areas where asbestos is present.

What are some early signs of mesothelioma?

Early signs of mesothelioma can include shortness of breath, chest pain, and coughing. However, these symptoms can also be indicative of other conditions, so it’s important to see a doctor for a proper diagnosis.

What are some late-stage symptoms of mesothelioma?

Some late-stage symptoms of mesothelioma can include weight loss, fatigue, difficulty swallowing, and bowel obstruction (for peritoneal mesothelioma).

Can smoking increase the risk of mesothelioma?

Smoking does not increase the risk of mesothelioma, but it can worsen the effects of asbestos exposure on the lungs.

How much compensation can mesothelioma patients receive?

The amount of compensation that mesothelioma patients can receive depends on the specifics of their case, including the extent of their illness and the company’s liability. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help determine a fair amount of compensation.

How can I find a mesothelioma lawyer in Denver?

You can find a mesothelioma lawyer in Denver by searching online or contacting a legal referral service. It’s important to choose a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma cases and a track record of success.

Conclusion

Mesothelioma is a serious and often deadly disease that can result from exposure to asbestos. Denver has a history of asbestos use in various industries, putting many people at risk. It’s important to be aware of the symptoms of mesothelioma and take steps to protect yourself and your loved ones. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to discuss your legal options.

Thank you for reading our guide on mesothelioma in Denver, Colorado. We hope this information has been helpful to you.

Closing/Disclaimer

The information provided in this article is intended to be educational and informative. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Additionally, while we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no warranties or representations of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the article or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained in the article for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk.