McGowan, Hood & Felder LLC
Mesothelioma Attorneys
Mesothelioma (cancer of the mesothelium) is a rare form of cancer in which cells of the mesothelium become abnormal and divide without control or order. They can invade and damage nearby tissues and organs. Cancer cells can also spread from their original site to other parts of the body. Most cases of mesothelioma begin in the pleura or peritoneum. About 2,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed in the United States each year.
Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 percent to 80 percent of all cases. Occupations with the highest proportionate mortality ratio were plumbers, pipe fitters, steamfitters, electricians, and elementary school teachers.
Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation. In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer and asbestosis, a noncancerous, chronic lung malady.
OSHA has set the acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace. To find out if your workplace is complying with regulations, contact South Carolina mesothelioma lawyers today, toll free, at 877-327-3800.
Shortness of breath and pain in the chest due to an accumulation of fluid in the pleura are often symptoms of pleural mesothelioma. These symptoms may not appear until 30 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. It is important to see a doctor about any of these symptoms. Only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
Diagnosing mesothelioma is often difficult, because the symptoms are similar to those of a number of other conditions. It begins with a review of the patient’s medical history, including any history of asbestos exposure. A complete physical examination may be performed, including xrays, a CT or CAT scan, or an MRI. A biopsy is needed to confirm a diagnosis of mesothelioma.
Attorneys with McGowan, Hood & Felder, LLC have the ability to represent clients who have been diagnosed as suffering from mesothelioma. If you are unsure whether you have a case against a company for a Mesothelioma claim, contact South Carolina mesothelioma lawyers at McGowan, Hood & Felder, LLC , LLC toll free at 877-327-3800. Attorneys in our Rock Hill, Columbia, and Anderson office locations represent clients throughout Charleston, Spartanburg, Florence, Sumter, and Myrtle Beach and all parts of South Carolina.
