Asbestos exposure is the primary cause of mesothelioma. Mesothelioma cancer develops after asbestos exposure as microscopic asbestos fibers are inhaled into the lungs or ingested. As these fibers enter the body they can become lodged in internal organ tissues. As the body attempts to rid itself of the invading fibers, a buildup of scar tissue can develop. This scar tissue can cause the development of asbestosis, lung cancer, mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos related diseases.
During the 20th century, an estimated 1,650,000 tons of asbestos were mined in California alone and put into numerous manufactured products. Asbestos was a desirable filler for many products as it was inexpensive and resistant to heat and corrosion. The asbestos filler was used in products ranging from brake pads and textiles to cement and insulation.
Asbestos was commonly used materials in the construction, shipbuilding and manufacturing industries. There are numerous buildings and jobsites in California alone where asbestos exposure may have occurred. The use of asbestos continued for most of the twentieth century despite the fact that many companies knew as early as 1918 that asbestos was causing health problems for workers, their families and the public.
Trust funds have been established by many companies to compensate victims of asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma symptoms generally do not appear for 10 to 60 years after exposure has occurred. Each year approximately 330 Californians are diagnosed with mesothelioma cancer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma in California and wish to learn more about your legal rights, CLICK HERE to contact our experienced California mesothelioma attorneys.