You likely know what mesothelioma is. You may also know that it is an aggressive disease commonly caused by extended periods of asbestos exposure. Beyond that, many people don’t know the facts about this condition, leading to all myths and misconceptions. While a mesothelioma diagnosis can be scary, it’s not always a death sentence.
Learn more about four common misconceptions of this disease and your legal rights after a diagnosis:
1. It’s caused by smoking
This is incorrect. Smoking won’t cause or increase the potential of you developing this disease. Smoking results in lung cancer. Mesothelioma forms in the lining of the heart, abdominal cavity and lungs.
2. It’s contagious
Another myth that has been spread in recent years. Mesothelioma can’t spread from germs or through human contact. The only proven cause of the disease is asbestos exposure.
3. Women are immune to the disease
While mesothelioma affects more men (statistically) than women, it doesn’t mean women are immune to this disease. This is the case because men are more likely to work in industries and jobs where asbestos exposure occurs.
4. The U.S. has banned the use of asbestos
Unfortunately, the U.S. has not banned the use of asbestos. While asbestos mining in the United States is banned, it can still be imported and used in various projects. Currently, the only state that bans the use of asbestos in New Jersey.
If you were exposed to asbestos as part of your work or due to other conditions, it might be possible to recover compensation for your injuries, pain and suffering. Knowing your legal rights is the best way to protect them and act in the proper manner to recover the monetary damages you are entitled to.
