For years, manufacturing companies have known that asbestos poses a dangerous health hazard for anyone exposed to it.

  • In 1918, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics released a report that revealed a high risk of early death among asbestos workers.
  • In 1930, Dr. E.R.A. Merewether discovered that one in four asbestos industry workers suffered from asbestosis.
  • In 1934, researchers discovered a link between cancer and asbestos exposure.
  • In 1942, researchers reported that lung cancer in building trade workers was likely due to asbestos exposure.
  • In 1955, a major study showed that asbestos exposure increased the risk of cancer tenfold.
  • In 1964, Dr. Irving Selikoff of New York’s Mt. Sinai Hospital reported widespread disease among asbestos workers.

Yet, greedy manufacturers continued selling, and unscrupulous installers kept using asbestos without warning workers that asbestos exposure was hazardous to their health. Worse, many of these companies rewrote research reports to hide these findings. As a result, countless people are suffering from this asbestos exposure even today.

The problem is so widespread that there are trust funds set up to compensate victims. If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos at some point, contact our asbestos exposure attorneys in Michigan today to schedule your free consultation.

ASBESTOS EXPOSURE IS EVERYWHERE

ASBESTOS IN THE WORKPLACE

Asbestos refers to any of six incombustible materials used in fireproofing, insulation, and building supplies since about 1858. Shockingly, many of these products are still in use today. If you have worked in any of the following industries over the past 90 years, you may have suffered asbestos exposure:

  • Insulating
  • Shipbuilding
  • Power plants and refineries
  • Construction
  • Plumbing
  • Textiles
  • Auto repair
  • Railroads

Common Illnesses Caused by Asbestos Exposure

  • Asbestosis
  • Pleural mesothelioma
  • Peritoneal mesothelioma
  • Pericardial mesothelioma
  • Lung cancer

Asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma are the horrific aftereffects of corporations putting profits over people. It’s inexcusable and unjust. At Fieger Law, we’ll fight to get you justice and the compensation you need to deal with the expenses you’re forced to incur. No one will fight harder for you than Fieger Law.

ASBESTOS IN THE HOME

Because asbestos was hailed for its fire-resistant properties, it was also extensively used in the construction and manufacturing of homes and other structures until its dangers became widely known. Unfortunately, many older homes, schools, and commercial buildings still contain asbestos-containing materials (ACMs), presenting a hidden hazard to occupants. Common sources of asbestos in the home include:

  • Insulation: Particularly in attics and walls of older homes.
  • Flooring: Vinyl tiles, linoleum, and the adhesive used to install them.
  • Ceilings and Walls: Popcorn ceilings, textured paints, and drywall joint compound.
  • Pipes and HVAC Systems: Insulation around pipes and heating ducts.
  • Roofing Materials: Roof shingles and felt.

TIMELINE OF SYMPTOMS AND DIAGNOSIS

Asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, often have a latency period spanning several decades. Understanding the timeline of symptoms and diagnosis is crucial for early intervention and treatment. The timeline may vary depending on factors such as the level and duration of exposure, but generally, it follows this pattern:

  • Exposure: Initial exposure to asbestos fibers, often occurring years or even decades before symptoms manifest.
  • Latency Period: The latent period between exposure and symptom onset can range from 10 to 50 years.
  • Symptom Onset: Symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, and persistent coughing may begin to appear.
  • Diagnosis: Medical tests, including imaging scans and biopsies, are conducted to diagnose asbestos-related diseases.
  • Treatment: Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, depending on the diagnosis and stage of the disease.

Regular health screenings to detect asbestos-related cancers early are essential for individuals who may have been exposed to asbestos— especially those who worked in industries where asbestos was prevalent.

By staying vigilant and proactive, individuals can maximize their chances of early detection and effective treatment. 

WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ASBESTOSIS?

Because developing asbestosis requires breathing in asbestos fibers over several years, it can be difficult to detect the symptoms until decades have passed. However, common symptoms associated with asbestosis include:

  • Shortness of breath or wheezing
  • Extreme fatigue
  • Shoulder or chest pain
  • A persistent cough
  • Sometimes clubbed or swollen fingertips may be present

YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS AND OPTIONS

If you suspect you’ve been exposed to asbestos in your home or work or have received a diagnosis of an asbestos-related illness, understanding your legal rights is crucial. Our experienced team at Fieger Law can guide you through the legal process, ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way.

Here are some options to assist with your legal protection going forward:

  • Medical Evaluation: Seek a medical evaluation if you believe you’ve been exposed to asbestos. Early detection is key to managing asbestos-related diseases. Also, having a medical record of your symptoms and diagnosis is critical to any legal outcome.
  • Legal Consultation: Consult with a knowledgeable attorney who specializes in asbestos litigation to understand your legal options.
  • Asbestos Trust Funds: In cases where the responsible party is bankrupt or no longer exists, compensation may be available through asbestos trust funds.
  • Litigation: If negligence led to your asbestos exposure, pursuing litigation may be necessary to secure compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

FIEGER LAW: NATIONALLY RECOGNIZED ASBESTOS EXPOSURE LAWYERS IN MICHIGAN

Since 1950, the asbestos exposure experts at Fieger Law have fought for victims’ rights. If you or a family member have suffered from a disease caused by asbestos exposure, Fieger Law can help. Contact Michigan’s top mesothelioma law firm today for a free consultation.