Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the lining of body organs like the lungs, heart or stomach. While there is no cure for the disease, it can be medically managed, giving patients a lifeline.
A common question many have is whether an early diagnosis of mesothelioma can make a difference in preventing its progression. Here is what you need to know.
An early diagnosis can be beneficial
Like other cancers, the earlier you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, the better the prognosis. If it is not detected early enough, there is the possibility of metastasis, where the disease spreads to other body parts, such as the brain or liver. It may be medically impossible to do anything at this stage.
However, if caught early, you can access treatment to improve life expectancy. It is not so easy, though. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, and there are no recommended screening tests for people who are not at risk.
In addition, its long latency period also means that by the time patients get a diagnosis, the disease has likely developed past several stages.
Have you or a loved one been diagnosed with mesothelioma?
A positive diagnosis of mesothelioma can be pretty devastating. Managing the disease can be costly, not to mention the physical impacts on the body.
You may have a valid mesothelioma claim if you have a history of working with asbestos and later develop the disease. Secondary asbestos exposure is equally deadly, and your household members may also be at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Therefore, it is essential to understand what you need to do to get compensation which will go a long way in helping you cope with the effects of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related complications.