Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the internal organs. It is caused by long-term exposure to asbestos.
While younger people can be diagnosed with mesothelioma, most of these cases involve senior citizens. But, why is this so? It all boils down to the latency period of the illness.
What is mesothelioma’s latency period?
The latency period of a disease is the time it takes to grow and develop. For mesothelioma, this is the time it takes from asbestos exposure to the development of the disease. According to scientific research, the latency period of mesothelioma is particularly long and can run into decades.
It means one can be exposed to asbestos in their 30s but develop mesothelioma in their 60s or 70s. Kids exposed to asbestos earlier in life from a parent working in high-risk industries (shipbuilding, construction or first responders), are likely to develop such asbestos-related complications sooner.
Caring for someone with mesothelioma
Like all other cancers, mesothelioma can get quite aggressive, especially if it is diagnosed in its late stages. Care can be taxing to family members and loved ones, physically and financially. For instance, some mesothelioma patients may require round-the-clock care, from carrying out basic tasks to attending medical appointments. It can be pretty expensive.
Getting justice for a loved one with mesothelioma
Relief and justice for your loved one can only come through financial compensation from their former employer if asbestos exposure occurred at the workplace. Therefore, it may be necessary to get an informed evaluation of your case and whether it is possible to pursue any claim.
A successful mesothelioma claim lies in tying the diagnosis to asbestos exposure with the necessary evidence, something that can be done if you have the know-how of handling such claims.