Public health researchers from Italy have found that the risk of dying from mesothelioma rises and then falls over the decades following exposure to asbestos, yet these peaks and valleys differ based on the type of mesothelioma. Workers in Louisville who are exposed to asbestos may develop one of several types of this cancer. For instance, it may affect their peritoneum (the membrane lining the abdomen), pleurae (the lining of the lungs), or pericardium (the sac containing the heart). The chances of developing lung cancer are also high.
Johnson & Johnson to pay $29 million in mesothelioma case
In December 2018, documents came to light showing that Johnson & Johnson has long had concerns about its talc-based products containing small amounts of asbestos. Some of these concerns date as far back as the 1970s. Now, the company is facing more than 13,000 lawsuits from consumers who claim to have been harmed by those products. Louisville residents might be interested to learn that one of those lawsuits has ended in a $29.4 million settlement.
Stage 4 mesothelioma and its treatments
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer affecting the pleura, or the protective lining of the lungs, and stage 4 mesothelioma is the final and most serious stage. At this point, the tumors have spread to the patient's chest wall, pericardium, diaphragm and other organs, such as the liver. Kentucky residents should know what the symptoms and treatments are.
Types of mesothelioma and potential symptoms
Mesothelioma, which can come from asbestos exposure, is not the same in every case. Considering how dangerous this type of cancer is and how often it proves fatal, it's very important to know what types there are and what symptoms you may see. As with other cancers, the key lies in early detection and treatment. The more you know, the easier it is to spot a serious medical issue.
