A Texas couple was recently awarded a settlement of $3 million, stemming from the husband’s exposure to asbestos and his subsequent development of mesothelioma. Oscar Torres was an employee of Union Carbide in Texas in the 1970s, and during his time with the chemical and polymer corporation he was exposed to asbestos, and was eventually stricken with the deadly form of chest and lung cancer.
Oscar and his wife Dora filed a lawsuit against his former employer, as well as Garlock Sealing Technologies and Brown & Root, an engineering and construction company now known as KBR, Inc. Oscar’s claim was that his employment with Union Carbide and involvement with the other companies left him subject to the inhalation of deadly asbestos fibers. His successful lawsuit is just one of many in the growing realization of the dangers of asbestos and especially the lethality of mesothelioma.
Asbestos is a fibrous mineral found in a variety of materials or products which can cause cancer or lung disease, namely asbestosis and mesothelioma. These fibers are so tiny that they cannot be seen with the naked eye. When asbestos is inhaled it can lead to serious health problems with the lungs and other organs. Many times the affects of asbestos does not show up until years after being exposed to it. It could be 20 or 30 years before the symptoms show, sometimes even longer.
If a person develops asbestosis there is a buildup of scar-like tissue in the lungs. This results in a loss of lung function which can progress to disability or even death. There are certain industries that pose a greater risk of exposure to asbestos. In any general industry there is a risk of workers being exposed during the manufacturing of asbestos-containing products. Some of the specific industries at risk include automotive, construction, maritime, and custodial.
Some of the symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, inability to tolerate physical activity, chest pains, and coughing. It is important to see a doctor to determine if these symptoms are due to asbestosis or another breathing problem such as asthma.
There are also several complications that can result from asbestosis and mesothelioma. Depending on how much asbestos a person was exposed to and for how long, the effects of it can range from mild to severe. If the effects are mild there may likely be no symptoms that are presented. However if the effects are severe enough it can be fatal.
Some of the complications that can arise from asbestosis include: high blood pressure, lung cancer, heart problems, pleural effusion, and, of course, mesothelioma.
If you or a loved one has experienced health complications, illness or symptoms of mesothelioma as a result of contact with asbestos, contact Newsome Law Firm and fill out a case evaluation form today. Our team of attorneys has experience specific to complications associated with asbestos exposure. Not only can they give you the legal guidance you need, they can help you get the compensation you deserve.