Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Victim Champions
We represent and help people and families who are affected by mesothelioma, an inevitably fatal form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma has a very long incubation period and can take 50 years or more before symptoms begin to appear. According to the American Cancer Society, the average survival time after diagnosis is short – four to eight months.
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral fiber which is extremely heat resistant and exceedingly resilient. As a result of these properties manufacturers began using asbestos in building materials, insulation, gaskets and packing, clothing, and items that cause friction, such as vehicle brakes and many others. By the 1930’s it was clear to manufacturers that inhaling even small amounts of asbestos fibers was harmful to human beings. Despite that knowledge, and the fact that the United States Government began restricting the use of asbestos in 1971, companies continue to use asbestos in their products to this day and fail to warn consumers of its dangers, thereby putting profits over the safety of their customers.
In recent years, asbestos has been found in various products made with talc. Geologically, talc and asbestos can form naturally in the earth alongside each other. If a talc deposit contains asbestos, the products made from the talc often contain asbestos. Industrial talc is used in the production of ceramics, plastics, paper, roofing, flooring and rubber. In addition, cosmetic talc is used in the production of various powder and cosmetic products. Because talc is the softest mineral, and has the ability to absorb moisture, it has been used in the manufacture of face and body powders, and due to its soft and silky texture; talc has been used as a common ingredient in the manufacture of various cosmetic products. The powder and cosmetic products that have been found to contain asbestos include:
- Baby powder
- Body powder
- Electrical switchboards
- Face powder
- Finishing powders
- Food additives
- Foot powder
- Foundations
- French chalk
- Lab counter tops
- Powder compacts
- Powdered blushes
- Powdered eye shadows
- Tailor’s chalk
In years past, asbestos was also used in industrial products that continue to cause mesothelioma today, including:
- Heavy machinery and equipment
- Adhesives
- Auto parts, including brakes and clutches
- Cigarettes
- Fertilizers
- Floor tiles
- Furnaces
- Gaskets
- Insulation materials
- Ovens
- Ship building and construction materials
- Steam pipes
We recognize that litigation can only help address a small part of the problems of those who have contracted mesothelioma. However, those who have become ill should be compensated not only for the wrong done to them but to help their families as well.
Protect yourself. Protect your family. Let us advocate for you.