Mesothelioma Information Washington DC Blog | Parker, Dumler and Kiely LLP

Asbestos-Containing Products

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 19:12:00 +0000

Asbestos is a natural mineral that was mined for use in a variety of products during the twentieth century. Due to its strong insulation qualities, it was widely used for decades in products that required temperature transfer resistance or heat containment, especially home and construction products.

In 1980, the federal government banned the use of asbestos-containing products due to evidence that these products led to an increased risk of mesothelioma and other rare forms of cancer. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, any product containing 1% or more asbestos is considered to be an asbestos-containing product.

The peak years for asbestos usage in products were 1950-1975. Its fibers mirrored cotton and wool in softness, yet it is significantly more flame and acid resistant than these other materials. As a result, asbestos was frequently used in fireproof garments. Many gas masks also contained asbestos.

Its temperature and heat resistant properties made asbestos a common material used in insulation for:

Pipes
Boilers
Electrical products

Many vehicles used asbestos in brake linings and clutch pads. The construction and shipping industries also relied heavily on asbestos for products such as:

Cement pipes
Packing
Jointing
Gaskets
Floor and ceiling tiles
Paneling
Roofing shingles
Asphalt coats and sealant

If you have developed mesothelioma from asbestos exposure at work, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your damages. The experienced Maryland asbestos lawyers at Parker, Dumler & Kiely LLP have recovered millions of dollars in damages for asbestos and mesothelioma victims. We have the skills and resources to handle these complex personal injury claims.

If you have an asbestos or mesothelioma claim in the Baltimore, Maryland or Washington, D.C. area, please contact our Maryland asbestos lawyers today to schedule your initial consultation.

Mesothelioma is a Serious Concern for Construction Workers

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 19:11:00 +0000

Asbestos has permeated just about every aspect of the construction industry. The toxic material was widely used throughout the middle part of the twentieth century during many phases of commercial and residential construction projects. Unfortunately, asbestos exposure has caused many construction workers to develop mesothelioma, a rare, aggressive form of cancer.

Mesothelioma has a long latency period and often takes between 20 and 50 years to develop after initial exposure to asbestos. As a result, many construction workers who came into contact with asbestos decades ago are now first developing the disease. Many of these people are senior citizens and most likely have not worked in the field for years.

When asbestos fibers are released into the air, people working in the vicinity will inevitably inhale the toxic substance, unless they are wearing protective gear. Unfortunately, for decades, construction companies did not provide their employees with the proper gear to prevent the damage caused by asbestos exposure. As a result, construction workers have been placed at a vastly above average risk of developing mesothelioma.

Asbestos fibers will become lodged in your mesothelium, the membrane surrounding your internal organs and lining your body cavities. Over time they become malignant, resulting in mesothelioma. This rare form of cancer most commonly affects the chest wall lining and the lungs, although it can also affect the stomach or heart. Mesothelioma patients generally have less than two years to live once diagnosed.

If you have worked in the construction industry, it is crucial that you inform your doctor so that you can receive the proper testing for mesothelioma.

The Washington, D.C. asbestos personal injury lawyers at Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP have recovered millions of dollars for mesothelioma victims over the years. These claims are highly complex, and it is essential that you work with a law firm specializing in this area of personal injury law.

If you have a mesothelioma claim in the Baltimore, Maryland or Washington, D.C. area, please contact our Maryland mesothelioma lawyers today to schedule your initial consultation.

History of Asbestos Litigation

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 19:09:00 +0000

In recent years, asbestos litigation has become one of the most rapidly growing areas of personal injury law. There are currently more than 200,000 asbestos and mesothelioma claims pending in state and federal courts, and tens of thousands of new asbestos claims are filed every year. However, it took quite some time before asbestos litigation began to show results for injured victims.

The first asbestos claim was filed in 1966 by Claude Tomplait in Beaumont, Texas. There were eleven manufacturers of asbestos-containing products listed as defendants in the claim. In 1969, Tomplait's case went to trial, and it only took one week for the jury to return a verdict in favor of the defendants.

Later in 1969, one of Tomplait's co-workers filed a similar lawsuit after developing an asbestos-related disease. However, in this case, the jury returned a verdict in favor of the injured victim, awarding him approximately $80,000. This victory opened the door for other asbestos victims across the country to file claims seeking compensation for their injuries.

In 1974, Reba Rudkin won a precedent-setting asbestos lawsuit against his employer, the Johns-Manville manufacturing plant. Rudkin developed asbestosis after 29 years of employment at the plant. Normally, his damages would be covered by workers' compensation law. However, the courts ruled that Johns-Manville could be held liable on fraud and conspiracy charges after evidence was presented that the company had been suppressing knowledge of the dangers of asbestos from their employees since the 1930s.

In 1981, the California Supreme Court upheld the ruling allowing Johns-Manville employees to sue the company over asbestos-related injuries. Faced with a multitude of lawsuits, Johns-Manville filed bankruptcy in 1982. Many other asbestos companies would be forced into bankruptcy shortly afterward.

During the 1980s, several medical and scientific studies were released indicating that mesothelioma and other asbestos-related conditions could be contracted by asbestos exposure at places where these materials were used for purposes such as insulation. This expanded the scope of asbestos litigation to include victims exposed to the substance while working in:

Shipyards
Refineries
Railroads
Power plants
Construction jobs

Over the past 40 years, there have been more than 730,000 asbestos claims filed resulting in billions of dollars in damage awards. Due to the complex nature of these claims, it is important to work with a law firm that specializes in asbestos litigation to ensure the greatest likelihood of success for your claim.

The Baltimore asbestos lawyers at Parker, Dumler & Kiely have represented many indiduals who have developed mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases at their worksite. We have the skills, resources, and experience needed to hold the negligent parties accountable for your injuries. Over the years, we have recovered millions of dollars in settlements for asbestos victims.

If you have an asbestos claim in the Baltimore, Maryland or Washington, D.C. area, please contact our Baltimore asbestos lawyers today to schedule your initial consultation.

Living Well with Mesothelioma

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:17:00 +0000

Recent advances in treating mesothelioma offer new hope to its victims and their families. Dr. David Sugarbaker is Chief of Thoracic Surgery at Brigham and Women's Hospital. His treatment has improved the survival rates of mesothelioma patients under his care significantly. Mesothelioma attorney Matt Kiely can advise you about care options and whether you might be eligible for a settlement to pay for good care.

Until a cure is found, living longer with this disease makes living well increasingly more important. First, accept the fact of your disease and immediately arrange for your medical and emotional care. Receiving a mesothelioma diagnosis is a tremendous shock.

Involve your family and friends in your life, and maintain as normal a routine as possible for as long as possible. Don’t forget the many benefits that come from regular exercise.

As you become more dependent up on others to help you with your daily tasks, be sure to involve people doing what they do best. For example, if someone loves cooking, ask them to prepare and freeze meals for you. Have others shop, clean, do laundry, assist you with paying bills, take you to the doctor, or whatever you need done.

Try to stay as socially active as possible. Maintain your hobbies and usual activities as much as you can. Your involvement with others will help keep you hopeful and upbeat. Depression and anxiety are always ready to dampen your hopes, but with so much progress being made, you never know when a cure or life-lengthening improvement will be the one that benefits you.

For a no-cost evaluation of your claim to please contact the experienced mesothelioma lawyers at Parker, Dumler, and Kiely, LLC in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Types of Traditional Care

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 17:09:00 +0000

Traditional treatment for mesothelioma involves surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, palliative care or a combination of these. The specific treatment chosen is based upon the mesothelioma disease stage, as well as whether it is intended to remove or destroy the cancer or if it is palliative for comfort, pain relief or to reduce other symptoms and complications.

Surgery

Surgery is an option for removing the tumor, directly. Surgery may also treat mesothelioma symptoms and complications by removing membrane or lung tissue that may develop tumors at a later time.

Thoracentesis and pericentesis are minor surgical procedures to draw fluid and infectious material out of the pleural or peritoneal space. Fluid buildup is a complication caused by inflammation or infection resulting from the tumor irritating nearby tissue.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy, also called radiotherapy, can be delivered by directing radiation (X-rays) directly to the affected area, or by injection of a radioactive solution via intravenous injection (IV).

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy technically refers to any medication (chemical) given as a treatment. Under chemotherapy come several medication classifications: Cancer killing drugs, antibiotics to treat secondary infections, and pain relievers. Chemotherapy can be administered by pill or IV. Technically, radiation therapy administered by IV could be considered chemotherapy. Chemotherapy has been used successfully in conjunction with specialized light therapy to make cancer cells more susceptible to light as a method of killing cells.

Palliative Care

Palliative care relieves pain and symptoms. While palliative treatment is not curative, it could be administered in conjunction with curative treatments to alleviate pain, shortness of breath (SOB), anxiety, depression, fatigue, loss of appetite or gastrointestinal problems.

Palliative care can be surgical or chemotherapeutic intervention. It may include draining fluid, treatment to improve breathing and relieve shortness of breath, pain pills, exercise, behavioral modification (breathing techniques, biofeedback), acupuncture and other approaches.

The experienced mesothelioma lawyers at Parker, Dumler, and Kiely, LLC in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. invite you to please contact them for a free evaluation of your claim.

How to Protect Yourself When Working with Asbestos

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 18:04:00 +0000

Asbestos, a known carcinogen, poses a threat to anyone who works directly with or around its loose fibers, whether in the workplace or in private life. Employers are required by government regulations through agencies such as OSHA, EPA, and Workers' Compensation laws to provide protection to employees. These protections aren't a trade secret, and if you are a do-it-yourselfer, you can protect yourself from asbestos by taking the time to learn a few techniques. The danger from asbestos arises when the fibers are airborne, so the goal is to minimize the amount of dust you create.

Some of the pointers you'll find at the link above are summarized here. Dust can land on your clothing, in your hair, and in your food, drink, and even on cigarettes, so don't put anything in your mouth in the presence of dust.

Other recommended protections are:

Working with dampened material will reduce dust.
Working with hand tools gives you more control over dust than working with power tools.
Wear an appropriate mask that will filter particles smaller than asbestos particles (FFP3 type), wear disposable coveralls, including boot covers and a covering for your hair.
Use an appropriate vacuum to clean up.

Working with certain materials without a license is a serious consideration for anyone renovating their home. Many dangerous wall, ceiling, and insulation materials are commonly found in older buildings. Deterioration from aging creates an exposure risk whether or not they are repaired. Find out which constructions materials are safe to repair, and which are best left to the professionals. You should consult a licensed professional before you begin any renovation.

Please contact the law offices of Parker, Dumler, and Kiely, LLC to learn more about asbestos protection laws and your rights in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Asbestos - Deadly Miracle Mineral

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 17:07:00 +0000

Asbestos (Greek for "inextinguishable") was once touted by ancient Greeks as the "miracle mineral." The Greeks used asbestos for just about everything from clothing to household items to building materials. But they, like us, learned too quickly that this mineral had a dark side when they found that slaves who worked with the "miracle mineral" were dying of lung diseases caused by asbestos.

History repeated itself when, in 1879, an asbestos mine in the Canadian Appalachians opened, followed shortly by many the opening of many more mines throughout North America. Asbestos, the "miracle mineral" reigned for another 100 years until 1979 when regulatory agencies began restricting its use. By 1990 U.S. laws prohibited any new uses of asbestos, but still allowed its use in products that had previously been approved.

Because of its deadly nature–and the rapid rise in lawsuits–most manufacturers either discontinued or severely limited asbestos use in products where alternative materials could be substituted. Prior to this time mining and manufacturing companies knew of the dangers of this material. Many blatantly ignored the warnings and continued to subject employees to the deadly mineral without informing them of the dangerous exposure or offering any protections from it.

If you have been exposed to asbestos because of a negligent employer, please contact the law offices of Parker, Dumler, and Kiely, LLC serving clients in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

The Most Common Asbestos Exposure Sites

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 14:43:00 +0000

Many jobs still involve working with asbestos. Job site exposure to asbestos has been reduced significantly because EPA, OSHA and other regulatory agencies set strict requirements for work practices that affect the environment or employees.

Workers commonly exposed to asbestos in decades past have a higher risk of developing an asbestos-related disease than workers entering the same industries today.

Two other high-risk areas are the construction industry and the automotive industry, particularly working with brake linings. Both industries use asbestos extensively.

Asbestos Exposure from Other Sources

The most common non-employee exposure to asbestos is to family members who worked with asbestos, especially prior to current safety regulations. Another very common exposure site is the community. Fibers escaped asbestos mines and manufacturing plants sites rained out over communities, exposing everyone living nearby.

Common community exposure sites include buildings constructed during the late 1800s and early 1900s, such as government buildings, office buildings, older homes, schools and hospitals.

The risk of non-industrial asbestos exposure is highest for people who renovate buildings. Exposure to deteriorating walls, flooring, countertops, ceiling tiles, insulation, etc. can, be deadly. Experts recommend sealing these areas to prevent fibers from becoming airborne until you can hire a professional to make the repairs.

The experienced asbestos lawyers of Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP, invite you to please contact them for more information about asbestos exposure liability in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Four Types of Mesothelioma

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 14:33:00 +0000

The organs, body cavity, and their mesothilial sacs are as follows:

Lung
Chest Cavity
Pleura
Abdominal Organs
Abdominal Cavity
Peritoneum
Heart
Chest Cavity
Pericardium
Testicles
Scrotum
Tunica Vaginalis

There are two layers to the mesothelium, the inner (visceral) sac, and an outer (parietal) layer that lines the respective body cavity. The layers secrete a fluid that allows the organs frictionless movement within the cavity. In all four types of mesothelioma the disease begins in the elastic mesothelial sac that encases one of four body organs.

Pleural Mesothelioma

Pleural mesothelioma begins in the pleural sac. The early symptoms of mesothelioma appear as the tumor grows causing pleural inflammation causing effusions and infections that cause shortness of breath and other breathing problems.

Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Peritoneal mesothelioma begins most often in the stomach or intestines. Asbestos fibers are believed to enter the stomach either by ingestion or the lymphatic system. Fibers can be swallowed from food or drink that was contaminated with asbestos, or from swallowing contaminated lung secretions.

Pericardial Mesothelioma

Researchers have not established how the fibers get into the pericardial mesothelium, but speculate that they may break down in the lung tissue and enter the blood stream where they travel to the heart and become lodged in the pericardium.

Testicular Mesothelioma

With fewer than 100 cases reported, testicular mesothelioma is the rarest. To date, no one knows why mesothelioma develops in the testicles.

Please contact the law offices of Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP, the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Causes of Mesothelioma

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 15:29:00 +0000

Estimates are that 90% of all cases of mesothelioma are caused by asbestos. Research by the Mayo Clinic identified the cause of mesothelioma to be genetic mutation that causes the cells to become cancerous. Asbestos appears to have the capability of initiating this mutation.

Other causes of mesothelioma suggest that the Simian virus (SV40) is one cause of the disease. The SV40 virus was discovered when polio vaccines were being developed during the mid-1950s to early 1960. Some of the vaccines were contaminated with the SV40 virus.

Other cases are associated with patients who were injected with thorium dioxide (Thorotrast), once used in some x-ray tests. Thorium dioxide appears to increase the risk of developing mesothelioma.

But the majority of cases of mesothelioma are caused by exposure in asbestos industry workplace, direct contact with people who worked there while they still had the fiber dust on their clothes, bodies or hair, or direct contact with their clothes as with people who did the worker's laundry.

If you believe you have an asbestos-related claim, please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. to arrange an initial consultation.

Who Is At Increased Risk For Developing Mesothelioma?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 15:34:00 +0000

As many as 90% of all mesothelioma victims have a history of job-related asbestos exposure. The remaining 10-30% (depending upon which statistics you read) are people who have been exposed in one of a very few other ways. One risk of exposure for wives and household members came from close contact with the worker, such as giving a hug when they came home, or shaking out clothing while doing laundry, sending fibers airborne. The attorneys at Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLC list several common job sites known for asbestos exposure.

Rarely is mesothelioma found in patients without a history of asbestos exposure, but there are two other suspected causes. One is having received a polio vaccine contaminated with the SV40 virus, and another is the result of having received thorium dioxide (Thorotrast) once used as contrast material for x-rays. Thorium dioxide appears to make people more susceptible to developing mesothelioma rather than being a direct cause.

Others with an increased risk for developing mesothelioma are those who work in current industries that still use asbestos. These include construction, demolition, shipbuilding, cement factories, railroad workers, and many more trades people. People exposed to the dust from renovation, reconstruction, demolition and construction sites, or who work for manufacturers who have not implemented proper safeguards and protective equipment are at higher risk.

Another risk to consumers is from using vermiculite for gardening. This risk of exposure can be reduced or eliminated by dampening the vermiculite before using it to keep the dust from becoming airborne. Vermiculite is not a danger itself, but it comes from mines that are contaminated with asbestos and may contain fibers. The EPA recommends using and storing vermiculite outdoors and in well-ventilated areas.

The risk increases as exposure increases, either in quantity or time. Although some people with only brief exposure have developed mesothelioma, this is very rare.

Whether or not you have a history of working with asbestos, if you have a diagnosis of mesothelioma, you may be entitled to damages. For a free evaluation of your claim by mesothelioma attorneys experienced in obtaining settlements for their clients, please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

How is Mesothelioma Diagnosed?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 15:33:00 +0000

Diagnosing mesothelioma begins with a series of tests to confirm that mesothelioma is the correct diagnosis. This process is followed by more tests designed to "stage" the disease-to establish the extent of the disease. The location of the cells (pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, or testicular) will also be a part of the diagnosis.

The mesothelioma diagnostic process begins with a series of tests that can include some of all of an x-ray, a CT scan, and MRI, and a PET scan. A biopsy will reveal whether the cells are cancerous or non-cancerous. If the cells are cancerous, the cell analysis will reveal the type of mesothelioma cells present.

Staging helps determine the extent of the disease. Your doctor will choose from three methods of staging one that is most appropriate for you. These are called the TNM Staging System, The Butchart Staging System and the Brigham Staging System.

Armed with this information, your physician can proceed to develop a mesothelioma treatment plan for you. He will consider four factors:

Prognostic factors
Cellular classification
Staging
Treatment options by cancer stage

If you have received a diagnosis of mesothelioma you will also have legal factors to consider, and a limited amount of time to file a claim for damages. For a free consultation with a lawyer who has experience and success filing claims for asbestos-related diseases, please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Claiming Your Rights: Choosing a Mesothelioma Attorney

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 15:31:00 +0000

If you aren't burdened enough with your mesothelioma treatment, caring for someone who has mesothelioma, or coping after a death due to this disease, you will at some point need to consider choosing a mesothelioma attorney. While this is not too difficult, it does take time, and you need to act quickly to file a claim before the statutes of limitations runs out. The experienced mesothelioma lawyers at Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLC understand what you need to know to make this decision and are prepared to help you through this difficult decision.

Yet, you don't want to act so quickly that you are not satisfied with the lawyer you choose. Be prepared to gather the same information from every attorney or firm whom you consult so that you can compare their answers one-to-one. Because you have a limited amount of time to file a claim, you should begin this process right away so that you can make your decision with the least amount of pressure to choose.

You'll want to know about your attorney's history of representing clients with your type of case. Answers to questions about the number of cases and settlements they've won is important to know. You'll want to see his contract, learn about fees or contingency agreements, statutes of limitations, who, specifically will handle your case and how available that attorney will be, that he isn't overloaded with cases and having someone else represent you, the jurisdiction, and whether your case will be represented individually or as part of a class action.

Prepare your questions carefully ahead of time to be sure you don't forget to ask something important.

For more information or to arrange a free initial consultation, please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

How Will the Illness Affect Family and Friends?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 18:04:00 +0000

Everyone involved with a patient who has an asbestos-related illness will be affected by their loved one's disease. But, because everyone is unique, no two people will respond exactly the same. The sooner you find resources for information, help and support the easier it will be for everyone to get the support they need. Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLC lists several asbestos information resources on their website.

Some of the more common experiences begin with shock and disbelief upon learning of the disease. Other responses are based on not knowing how to relate to the patient or what to do to help.

One person is facing the end of their life with an uncertain timeline, and the rest are facing the loss of a loved one. All must deal with a complete change in their lives, beginning immediately, and lasting forever. Sadly, some will distance themselves from the patient and family. This is surely an unfortunate and disappointing loss of companionship, but it may be best not to have reluctant people involved in your lives at this time.

Most people know little about asbestos-caused diseases. While some will immediately do some research, few will know many facts. They might be willing to help, but not knowing exactly the best ways to help, can create more problems than they solve. It's wise to get these people together, share information, and involve them in an organized plan so that each can make a useful contribution. In this way, each can feel that they are doing something constructive, less helpless, and that they have some control over some part of the outcome.

Coping with cancer is difficult and often unpredictable. There will be a tremendous amount of stress that will affect everyone, and those caring for the patient will need as much support as the patient will. Emotions can range from denial, to anger, grief, fear, uncertainty, confusion, depression, hopelessness, hope...basically the full spectrum of what people can feel when their lives are turned upside down. Some well-meaning people might discount your emotions, or pressure you to respond as they expect you to. Don't let their view affect you, as your feelings are yours and will not follow any defined routine.

If your life has been destroyed by one of these diseases, you will need legal help in addition to other forms of support. For a free evaluation of your case, please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving clients in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

Public Health Emergency in Libby, Montana

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Thu, 25 Jun 2009 18:00:00 +0000

For the first time, the Environmental Protection Agency has declared a public health emergency. This is due to the high number of asbestos-related illnesses suffered by the population of Libby, Montana. The town will receive more than $130 million for cleanup and medical needs.

It is estimated that 200 people have died and at least a thousand more have been sickened with illnesses, including mesothelioma. The culprit is the vermiculite mine that was operated from the 1920s to 1990. Vermiculite by itself is not necessarily harmful, however, the vermiculite from the Libby mine was contaminated with asbestos.

Vermiculite is used in a variety of materials, and the vermiculite the Libby mine was mostly used in Zonolite, an insulation used in millions of homes across the country. Virtually all the vermiculite that was mined was contaminated with asbestos. This means that the small town was exposed for decades as the mining was in progress. However, while those who mined the vermiculite were definitely exposed, entire families may have also been sickened. Mine waste, called trailings, were used as mulch in gardens, as fill for driveways, and even in playgrounds and the local high school track.

The mine operator, W.C. Grace, closed the mine in 1999, but cleanup efforts have stalled time and again over the last decade. In 2008, three executives of the mining company were acquitted of criminal charges related to the town’s exposure. However, they agreed in 2008 to pay the EPA $250 million for cleanup costs.

If you or a loved one has developed an asbestos-related illness, please contact the experienced mesothelioma lawyers at Parker, Dumler & Kiely LLP for an initial consultation.

How Common Is Mesothelioma?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 19 Jun 2009 17:03:00 +0000

According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI) there are between 2,000 to 3,000 new mesothelioma diagnoses each year in the U.S. and over 10,000 reported worldwide, annually. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, accounting for less than 5% of all cancers. Attorneys at the firm Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP have posted a variety of valuable information to help you understand this disease and how it affects you and your family.

The NCI says, "Those who worked in industries that made widespread use of asbestos are at high risk for developing mesothelioma." About 80% of mesothelioma cases are traced back to a job that exposed the victim to asbestos, even though this may have been 10-50 years earlier. Most patients aren't diagnosed until they are in their mid-60s, but this is an average age, meaning that about half are diagnosed at younger ages.

Exposure to asbestos, even in high and frequent concentrations doesn't automatically mean that a person will develop an asbestos-related disease, though greater exposure increases risk proportionately. Some patients never worked directly with asbestos, but were contaminated indirectly through industrial pollution or personal contact with someone who worked in the industry. Workers left their jobs with asbestos on their bodies and clothing, spreading the fibers accordingly.

If you develop any symptoms of mesothelioma you should see your doctor and make sure he knows of your asbestos exposure. While symptoms can appear similar to the flu, if they don't subside in a few days, ask to be tested to be sure you don't have mesothelioma.

Should you receive a diagnosis of mesothelioma, or any asbestos-related disease, seek legal counsel quickly. Statutes of limitations may affect your eligibility to claim damages. Please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving clients in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C.

What is Asbestos and Where Can It Be Found?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Thu, 11 Jun 2009 17:02:00 +0000

Per the National Cancer Institute, ASBESTOS is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. These silicate compound fibers are fire retardant, heat resistant, non conductive, and resistant to chemicals making them ideal for many products and industrial uses. Unfortunately, asbestos contamination has serious health consequences.

As of 1989 all new uses of asbestos have been banned, but previous uses are still allowed. However, many products are no longer manufactured using asbestos, such as crayons, hairdryers, and kitchen appliances.

Aside from asbestos mines, asbestos can be found in minute quantities everywhere. These quantities are small enough that continued exposure is not considered to be a risk. But higher concentrations can be found in many places in addition to manufacturing plants and companies that use asbestos in their products. Asbestos usage in older homes was so extensive that many people are living in a potential disaster area.

Asbestos can be found in work places that employ laborers for many industries like welding, brake and auto repairs, and many others. Asbestos can be found in commonly used buildings such as hospitals, office buildings and schools, or industrial sites such as cement factories, chemical plants, or power plants, and many others.

Asbestos can also be found in older products and appliances that may be available in thrift stores, antique stores, basements and attics. These older products may well be in a state of deterioration, though they may look to be intact. These can be any product that generated heat or, like a potholder, protected from heat. They could include products that were fire or chemical retardant, such as children's clothing and blankets made prior to 1979.

If you believe you have an asbestos-related disease you should seek legal advice without delay. For a free, personalized consultation, please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, serving Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. clients with asbestos-related claims.

What Should I Do If I May Be At Risk?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:59:00 +0000

Most people at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease have worked in an industry that either mined asbestos or manufactured products with asbestos. Other high risk asbestos industries are those that used asbestos products, such as construction, shipbuilding, automotive industry-especially involving brake pads, cement factories and many other manual labor-intensive industries.

Also at risk are the families of these workers who have, in the past, brought home fibers on their clothing and bodies. Recent protective practices require workers to shower and change clothing before leaving a contaminated area, reducing the likelihood of exposing others by personal contact. However, prior to implementing these protections, those exposed to workers may still develop symptoms in the future.

One lesser-known industry is the do-it-yourself home remodeling and renovation sector, where people are not aware of the extent to which asbestos was used in older homes. Demolition industries create huge clouds of dust as older buildings come down, and many of these buildings contain extensive amounts of asbestos.

Because diseases associated with asbestos exposure have been found in people with little or no known exposure, and because asbestos is a naturally occurring fiber that can be found in minute quantities anywhere, to a small degree we are all at risk. These diseases take from 10-50 years to develop symptoms

Take Control

If you believe you are being exposed to asbestos and are not being informed, or have not been offered protective equipment, you can speak to your employer or whoever oversees the company that is responsible for the exposure. If they do not respond with satisfactory evidence that they are not putting you at risk, you can report them to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA), the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), or contact a lawyer experienced with asbestos cases for information on other remedies.

If you are at risk for an asbestos-related disease, you may have legal options. Please contact Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP, the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. for a personalized, free consultation.

What Effects Can Asbestos Have on the Body?

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 29 May 2009 16:57:00 +0000

Asbestos, a known carcinogen, can have a wide range of different effects on the body, depending upon where the fibers lodge. Asbestos-related diseases can range from nonmalignant to malignant, including asbestosis, nonmalignant lung and pleural disorders, lung cancer, mesothelioma of the pleura, peritoneum, pericardium or testicular lining, and other malignant cancers. The effects of asbestos on smokers is estimated to increase the risk of disease as much as 90 times that of non-smokers.

Asbestos fibers can accumulate in body tissue with repeated exposure. Trapped fibers can cause scarring and inflammation, which in turn can cause difficulty breathing. Over time continued inflammation can cause other problems including one or more of the following:

COPD
Asthma
Chronic bronchitis
Pneumonia
Asbestosis (fibrotic tissue/scarring throughout the lungs), which restricts lung expansion and reduces its ability to function normally
Pleural plaques
Pleural thickening
Mesothelioma
Increased risk of lung cancer

Secondary to the diseases above, pulmonary effusion (fluid between the pleural layers) can develop. Fluid buildup compresses the lungs and reduces the ability to breathe effectively. This fluid can become infected, cause inflammation and scarring of the pleura, which in turn can cause adhesions in which the scar tissue binds the two pleural layers together with scar tissue.

Peritoneal mesothelioma can cause bowel obstruction, anemia, weight loss, blood clotting abnormalities, abdominal pain and swelling, fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity similar to that of pleural effusion, and fever.

According to the National Cancer Institute, some studies indicate an increased risk of colorectal and gastrointestinal cancers, cancer of the throat, kidney, esophagus and gallbladder, though the evidence is inconclusive.

If you have any of these asbestos-related diseases or symptoms, please contact the experienced asbestos lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C., Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP for a free consultation.

In Loving Memory: Losing a Loved One to Asbestos-Related Diseases

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Wed, 20 May 2009 16:55:00 +0000

The emotions one feels when receiving a diagnosis of mesothelioma have been described as shocked, helpless with no control over their life, hopeless, despair and grief as though their loved one had already died, to name only a few. Much is written about coping with the disease from the patient's point of view, but equally important are the family members and friends, and how the death of a loved one from this devastating disease affects them. Asbestos attorneys Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP can help alleviate many concerns for victims of asbestos-related diseases in the Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. area.

As with the death of any loved one, family and friends will experience all of the expected phases of grieving. But when an asbestos-related disease causes death, there is more to cope with due to the fact that the death might have been avoidable. Since the majority of cases are caused by on-the-job exposure due to employer negligence in providing protection from asbestos, family often cope with lengthy litigation, stress, and prolonged involvement dealing with their loss.

Supporting one another during this time is especially important. In addition to the funeral services, holding a special memorial, joining support groups, forming support groups, and volunteering to help others who struggle with these diseases can be very healing. The feelings of helplessness and betrayal are often relieved by being able to help others learn how to relieve pain, stress, give comfort and assistance, and especially to cope with their difficult emotions.

For information on how you can recover financial damages you must act quickly to remain eligible. Please contact the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C., Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP to schedule a free consultation. Your loss has been great enough. You should not have to suffer financial losses, too.

Nutrition for Mesothelioma Patients

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Thu, 14 May 2009 20:14:00 +0000

It isn't surprising that good nutrition for mesothelioma patients is a high priority, but the fact is that many aspects of this disease preclude patients from benefitting from mesothelioma nutritional therapy. Mesothelioma is a cancer. The nature of cancer is that it is often a factor that causes the weight loss. This is compounded by how treatments affect a patient's appetite in addition to the risk of destroying healthy muscle and organ cells. These combine to defeat the goals of maintaining a healthy weight, elevating nutrition from nourishment to an additional treatment.

You'll make many changes in your life whether you caring for yourself or you are caring for a family member with mesothelioma. Good nutrition is one of the more important ones. It is necessary to help rebuild cells destroyed both by the cancer itself and by the treatment. So it makes sense to be as well nourished before treatment begins as possible. Good nutrition as a preventive measure helps rebuild cells, prevent infection, and reduce side effects.

Nutrition for mesothelioma patients, like other cancers, means eating more protein, particularly eggs, cheese, and milk, more fat and more carbohydrates. Gravies and sauces are encouraged, not discouraged, as are snacks. Because fiber can be an irritant to side effects such as diarrhea or mouth sores, it may be better to reduce the amount of fiber in ones diet. So, while salad dressings are encouraged, salads may be discouraged, at least if they exacerbate problems.

If you are under treatment for mesothelioma you may be entitled to reimbursement and other damages, but you do need to act within the time limits set by the Statutes of Limitations. Please contact Parker, Dumler, & Kiely, LLP, the Mesothelioma Lawyers serving Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C., the lawyers experienced in mesothelioma claims.

Asbestos Usage in the United States

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Tue, 05 May 2009 20:11:00 +0000

When Help Harms

The Hill-Burton Act was passed to ensure that there was adequate infrastructure in place to provide medical care to all communities. Hospitals were encouraged to expand services and build new additions or modernize existing facilities. It seemed that hospital construction was going on everywhere until the mid 1980s when new building efforts began to slow down.

While facilities were under construction employees often had to travel through dusty construction areas in the course of their work. Patients often had to be moved through these areas to get treatment or diagnostic testing in an area away from their rooms. Visitors and outpatients, as well as vendors and construction workers were openly exposed to the dust. In fact, the "Pardon Our Dust" signs were a common sight during those years.

The Irony of Intervention

Who could have guessed that this was not something to be so easily dismissed? Because so many of the buildings that needed renovation were built when asbestos use was not questioned, no doubt millions of Americans have been exposed to asbestos dust in more than minimal-risk measures. If you find yourself with an asbestos related diagnosis, but no idea where you were exposed, you may want to see an experienced asbestos attorney for more information.

Beware of Small Construction Projects

Recently a small, older grocery store paid about $100,000 to have their older floors sanded down to the concrete foundation according to an article the Union County Leader in Clayton, NM, March 11, 2009. Shoppers purchasing products immediately after completion of this project may have been contaminated with asbestos from the dusty cans and packages they purchased in the weeks following. Unless they washed them immediately, the dust may still be contaminating others who enter their homes, and especially those who use these products.

Home Renovation and Asbestos Exposure

As the economy tightens, and older buildings get older yet, we may see more and more home renovations and less new construction. Older buildings need more repairs and maintenance, and that creates a situation that could release asbestos fibers into the air. You can find companies that are qualified to dismantle those parts of your home that are at risk, but they won't be cheap. Knowing the risks to the health of your family you don't want just the lowest bid, but quality work by knowledgeable professionals.

It’s Not Just Employees at Risk

It’s obvious that we can't always know when we've been exposed to this deadly mineral. So, it may come as a surprise that people who are not employed in an asbestos-related field such as mining or manufacturing could be susceptible to asbestos caused diseases.

If you would like to learn more about your options, please visit the website of Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP, the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C. for more information, or to schedule a free consultation.

Notable Mesothelioma Class Actions

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 24 Apr 2009 14:48:00 +0000

James Cavette v Johns Manville

After James Cavett was awarded $3.8 million from asbestos manufacturer Johns Manville in 1982 for compensatory and punitive damages, class actions have been filed against employers in every industry that exposed its employees to asbestos. The flood of lawsuits has caused several large corporations to undergo bankruptcy reorganization. But the number of frivolous lawsuits that try to squeeze through contribute to overloading dockets and wasting money spent on lawyers, and court costs by all parties involved.

In 1995 a mesothelioma class action lawsuit was decided in favor of the plaintiffs and awarded $700,000,000. Another 750,000 individuals have joined mesothelioma class action lawsuits.

June Hancock v Turner & Newall

In a landmark U.K. case June Hancock sued Turner & Newall, the parent company of J.W. Roberts, an asbestos factory in Armley. As a child in the 1930s June played in and around the factory and attended school across the street, where enough asbestos drifted and landed that the children were able to make "snowballs" out of the drifts. Her mother died in 1983 from mesothelioma, but when she was diagnosed with the disease she decided to sue as an exposed community resident. When the court awarded her damages of £65,000 a new precedent was set establishing a duty to the community regarding the use of hazardous materials.

Whether or not you were exposed to asbestos in a work environment, if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma please contact the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C., Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP for a free consultation.

Notable Asbestos Class Actions

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 14:40:00 +0000

First Claims

Asbestos has been known as one of the most dangerous risks to employees' health since the late 1920s. In 1927 the first workers' compensation claim for asbestosis was filed. Johns Manville, a well-known asbestos company settled a 1933 claim with eleven employees, all of whom had asbestosis. The settlement was contingent upon a stipulation that the plaintiffs' attorney agreed never again to "directly or indirectly participate in the bringing of new actions against the Corporation."

The Floodgates Open

Johns Manville was again the subject of a lawsuit in 1982 in which the judgment awarded plaintiff James Cavett $3.8 million in damages. Two months later, still faced with 16,500 asbestos lawsuits The Manville Corporation filed for bankruptcy.

The 1980s and 1990s saw a flood of asbestos claims, and many of these ended up on the U.S. Supreme Court docket as class actions. Many large corporations ended up in or near bankruptcy as a result.

Tipping the Scales of Justice

Some made efforts to limit their liability by attempting to design settlements that were less than ideal. Two major faults with proposed plans were the lack of consideration for future claimants who had not yet shown symptoms of disease, and putting all of those exposed to asbestos into a single class that had no commonality other than exposure to asbestos, thus failing to account for the wide range of damages suffered by the victims.

These two plans were rejected by the U.S. Supreme Court in Amchem Prods., Inc. v. Windsor, 521 U.S. 591, 617 (1997) and Ortiz v. Fibreboard Corp., 527 U.S. 815 (1999).

With Intent to Deceive

Knowing that the Johns-Manville Corporation had a history of hiding evidence of the damages its employees were suffering as a result of asbestos exposure, Ronald Motley, a South Carolina attorney had a rather unflattering opinion of the company. He described them as "the greatest corporate mass murderer in history." One example is a memo from the company's medical director to its corporate headquarters that read:

"The fibrosis of this disease is irreversible and permanent so that eventually compensation will be paid to each of these men. But, as long as the man is not disabled it is felt that he should not be told of his condition so that he can live and work in peace and the company can benefit by his many years of experience."

In Your Defense

If you ever felt hesitant about filing a claim for the damages you and your family suffer as a result of your employer exposing you to asbestos, keep that memo in mind. You paid dearly for the opportunity to support your family, but your life and health were not part of the agreement. Please contact the experienced mesothelioma lawyers in Baltimore, Maryland and Washington, D.C., Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP to schedule a free consultation.

How to Care for a Family Member with Mesothelioma

noreply@blogger.com (Erica) — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 16:04:00 +0000

Caring for a loved one who is suffering from mesothelioma is an emotionally, financially and physically demanding task. While keeping the person at home is typically the desired arrangement, the loved ones providing the attention may not be able to handle the demands of properly caring for the patient. It is important to realize that there are other options available to help make a mesothelioma patient’s life more comfortable.

Other options for care

• Hospice care at home or in a hospice center
• Hospital setting
• Nursing home setting

There are ways that caregivers can help improve the mesothelioma patient’s quality of life while also maintaining their own sanity and not losing focus of themselves. As a caregiver, it is important to:

• Solicit and accept help from others, including healthcare professionals, other family members and friends.
• Discuss options for care openly with the patient.
• Keep healthy nutrition a priority for the patient and yourself.
• Take care of your own physical and emotional needs.
• Help the patients settle unfinished issues that may help to bring peace.
• Join a support group.
• Participate regularly in a stress-reducing activity.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lease contact our mesothelioma attorneys at Parker, Dumler & Kiely, LLP to schedule a free consultation.