Other Cancers
It is well known that exposure to asbestos can cause cancers such as mesothelioma. But what you may not know is that research has also linked asbestos to other types of cancer as well, such as colon cancer, stomach cancer, esophageal cancer, and laryngeal cancer. If you or a loved one had heavy occupational asbestos exposure, and years later has been diagnosed withany of these cancers, you need to contact The Meso Law Firm today for a confidential, free legal consultation.
Colorectal cancer or colon cancer is actually the second leading cause of cancer related death among men in the United States, and third among women. Colorectal cancer is a disease that occurs in the large intestine and/or rectal area. Usual risk factors that may cause colorectal cancer are obesity, smoking, frequent and heavy alcohol consumption, type 2 diabetes, physical inactivity, and a family history of colorectal cancer. However, several studies conducted between the 1980s and the present have suggested a definite correlation of an increased risk for colorectal cancer from frequent asbestos exposure.
Stomach cancer or gastrointestinal cancer refers to any of the cancers that impact the stomach and upper digestive system. While smoking, alcohol, and obesity are the leading risk factors associated with this disease, studies suggest that signfificant occupational asbestos exposure also plays a role. For example, a 2005 study of lighthouse keepers in Norway found that those who regularly consumed asbestos-tainted water were at greater risk of developing stomach cancer. Other epidemiologyhas also shown a correlation.
Esophageal cancer is a disease that occurs in the esophagus, a muscular tube lined with mucus that carries food to the throat. Alcohol consumption and smoking are some of the leading established causes of esophageal cancer, but the scientific studies showthat there are links between esophageal cancer and asbestos exposure. It makes sense, since asbestos particles inhaled from the air enter through the mouth, nose, and throat. The tiny needle like fibers become lodged in the esophagus and over time, can develop into cancer. If you or a loved one had heavy occupational asbestos exposure, and years later has been diagnosed with esophageal cancer, you need to contact The Meso Law Firm today for a free consultation.
Laryngeal cancer is a disease impacting the larynx, which is also called the voicebox. This hollow muscular organ holds the human vocal cords and can become subject to an increased risk of disease for heavy drinkers and smokers. However, epidemiological studies demonstrate a clear link between asbestos exposure and an increased likelihood of developing laryngeal cancer. This study, conducted by the National Institutes of Health at the behest of Congress, found that the cancer risk was also dependent on the amount of exposure, in terms of both duration and extent.
With the exception of these few cancers outside of mesothelioma and lung cancer, there is no universally accepted connection between asbestos exposure and other illnesses. However, there are enough studies that indicate a correlative connection, and for that reason, asbestos bankruptcy trusts have accepted these other cancers as compensable.
If you have had significant occupational asbestos exposure over a period of many years, and particulary if your family has a history of any of these cancers, a conversation with your doctor is a prudent idea. In many of these cases, a victim can avail themselves of the compensation made available to those who have received a cancer diagnosis after having been heavily exposed to asbestos over a long duration of time.