Asbestos Laws in West Virginia

West Virginia Mesothelioma Lawyer

A Goldberg, Persky & White asbestos attorney can help anyone diagnosed with mesothelioma get the compensation they deserve. West Virginia is one of the many states which had heavy mining and industries which exposed thousands of workers to asbestos. The main health risk of being exposed to asbestos is the development of mesothelioma. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Asbestos-containing products were used in steel mills, railroads, power plants, oil refineries, and other industries throughout West Virginia.  

Between the years of 1999 and 2013, West Virginia’s asbestos-related death rate was nine deaths per one hundred thousand people. That number is almost twice the national average, which was reported by the Environmental Working Group Action Fund.

The asbestos-related death rate is more than three times the national average in some West Virginia counties. This does include Kanawha County, which is the state’s center of industry.

Kanawha County was ranked among the top ten counties in the nation for asbestos litigation in 2017, which was reported by a KCIC industry. Even though there was a national descending trend happening, Kanawha County had shown an increase in claims from the years of 2016 to 2017.

How Can A West Virginia Mesothelioma Lawyer Help Me?

A West Virginia mesothelioma attorney at Goldberg, Persky & White PC can help you file a claim for compensation against the companies who exposed you to asbestos. Our law firm specializes in asbestos litigation and we are standing by with a West Virginia asbestos exposure lawyer to help you 24/7.

West Virginia Asbestos Laws and Regulations

The DEP enforces Hazardous Air Pollutant Emission standards in West Virginia’s. There are licensing requirements set for professionals who audit and abolish asbestos-containing materials. Before any renovation or demolition operations can begin, all buildings must be inspected for asbestos. The DEP should be notified in advance when asbestos-containing materials will be placed in a spot where they would be disturbed.

Asbestos-abatement professionals must go through specialized training through the state so that they can effectively remove asbestos-containing materials.

How To File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit in West Virginia

In order to manage the large number of disease cases, specific rules and regulations have been enacted by the West Virginia Legislature and state courts. The attorneys at Goldberg, Persky & White are familiar with regulations and the case process in West Virginia.

Mass Litigation Panel

There is a specialized panel, established by West Virginia’s Supreme Court of Appeals, which is set in place to help handle large litigation cases such as asbestos self-injury lawsuits. Asbestos cases that are filed in West Virginia are referred to the Circuit Court of Kanawha County.

The Mass Litigation Panel (MLP) Asbestos Case Management Order holds the procedures for filing asbestos cases.

Plaintiff’s in a pending asbestos self-injury case are required by the MLP to submit a “Plaintiff Fact Sheet”. In this fact sheet, the plaintiff’s must report their work history, medical providers, smoking history, and any kind of benefits such as workers’ compensation and/or disability.

Case Consolidation

Case consolidation is a method that the courts use to categorize similar claims for processing. The courts use this as a tool to lessen filings, streamline case scheduling, and expedite trials.

Currently, under the Asbestos Case Management Order, the plaintiff’s attorney designates a “trial group” of twenty cases. After that happens, the court will schedule trials for three of those groups every year.

Medical Severity

The Asbestos cases are divided into different categories based off of the plaintiff’s illnesses. The categories are used to group cases for scheduling.

• Category I cases involve living plaintiffs who have been diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer. This category’s plaintiffs receive first priority in trial groups, and any category I plaintiff who dies before being deposed is automatically moved to category II.
• Category II cases involve plaintiffs who are deceased. These plaintiffs were diagnosed with malignant mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer.
• Category III cases involve plaintiffs who have been diagnosed with nonmalignant asbestos-related diseases, such as asbestosis.

Punitive Damages

Punitive damages are used to punish defendants who lose and deter them from causing more avoidable injuries. Since 2015, punitive damage awards in West Virginia have been limited to four times compensatory damages, or $500,000, whichever is higher.

Disclosures

Plaintiffs must disclose any claims that may exist against bankruptcy trusts no later than 120 days before their trial date; the Asbestos Case Management Order requires this.

Defendants have information about trust claims. The courts, however, may require claimants to disclose the amount that they receive or that they expect to receive from bankruptcy trusts. The defendants are entitled to reduce these amounts from verdicts as “set-off’s.”

West Virginia Mesothelioma Lawsuit Statute of Limitations

West Virginia’s statutes of limitations indicate patients with mesothelioma have two years from their time of diagnosis to file a personal injury lawsuit against those responsible for their asbestos exposure; the time limit is the same for filing a wrongful-death lawsuit.

Job Sites in West Virginia With Documented Asbestos Exposure

Beckley

• Beckley Mining Academy

Bradley

• West Virginia Electric Supply

Charleston Area

• Barium Reduction
• Cecil Walker Machinery
• Dupont Chemical
• Fike Chemical
• FMC Ordnance
• General Electric
• Gordon Gasket and Packing Company
• Ingersoll Rand
• Monsanto
• Norfolk Southern Railroad
• P&H MinePro Services Appalachia
• Union Carbide Mines
• Vimasco Corporation

Clarksburg

• Allegheny Energy Supply
• Brockway Glass
• Centurial Products
• Fourco Glass

Davis

• Dominion Virginia Power

Fairmont

• Consolidation Coal Company
• FMC Chemical
• Monongahela Power Company
• Westinghouse

Huntington

• American Car Foundry
• Ensign Electric
• International Nickel Company
• Koppers
• Novamont
• Owens-Illinois

Logan Area

• Union Carbide Mines

Milton

• Appalachian Power Company

Morgantown Area

• Fort Martin Power Plant
• Hubbell Incorporated
• Union Carbide Mines

Moundsville

• Allied Chemical
• Analine Chemical
• Ben Franklin Coal Company

Newell

• Ergon-West Virginia

New Martinsville

• Mobay Chemical
• PPG Industries

Parkersburg

• Ames
• Borg Warner

Point Pleasant

• West Virginia Ordnance

Ravenswood

• Kaiser Aluminum

Spencer

• Kellwood Industries

Vienna

• Demuth Glass

Washington

• Marbon

Weirton

• Weirton Steel

Wheeling

• Blaw Knox Rolls
• Wheeling Pittsburgh Steel

West Virginia Mesothelioma Lawsuits

West Virginia mesothelioma lawsuits are filed against employers who put profit before their workers’ safety by exposing them to asbestos. These companies are held accountable by mesothelioma lawyers when those workers end up being diagnosed with mesothelioma. There are many ways in West Virginia for people with mesothelioma to receive compensation for their suffering as well as expenses.

Asbestos Verdicts

The ultimate way to hold a company accountable for causing workplace asbestos exposure is to take that company to a trial. Juries in the state of West Virginia have also held companies responsible for secondhand asbestos exposure.

DuPont was told to pay $6.4 million in expenses to the family of Leonard Cox in 2002. Cox died two years before from mesothelioma. Professionals traced his cancer back to asbestos dust, which was brought home on his father’s work clothes when Cox was still a child. His father was working at the time at the asbestos insulation at DuPont’s Belle chemical plant.

Settlements

Plenty of defendants in asbestos lawsuits will choose to settle their issues outside of the courtroom, rather than risk a jury verdict.

Out-of-court settlements amounts are usually less than verdict awards; out-of-court settlement amounts are kept confidential to keep the defendant from the news. Professional lawyers are known to seal mesothelioma settlements worth more than $1 million for the clients they work with.

Trust Funds

Asbestos trust funds are issued by liable companies so that they avoid going bankrupt because of lawsuits. An attorney that is familiar with asbestos cases can help determine which asbestos trusts individuals may be able to file a claim. For more information on how to file a claim, visit our blog post found here: https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/how-to-file-a-mesothelioma-claim/

Or our West Virginia Site found here: https://gpwlaw-wv.com/

For those diagnosed with mesothelioma in New York: https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/new-york-mesothelioma-lawyer/

The post Asbestos Laws in West Virginia appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/asbestos-laws-in-west-virginia/

What is Stage 4 Mesothelioma?

Stage 4 Mesothelioma is the final stage of mesothelioma. There are four stages of Pleural Mesothelioma. The fourth stage is the most severe because there are not many treatments to help. The treatments that are used can only help decrease some pain and help with a situation like breathing difficulties. The ultimate goal for a patient with stage 4 is to improve their contentment; since the mesothelioma has typically progressed through the body at this stage.

Stage 4 Pleural Mesothelioma Info

The advancement of cancer is determined by how much it has spread throughout the body. This cancer has spread through many parts of the body in stage four.  

Mesothelioma in Stage 4 can spread to many areas, the common ones include:

• The lining of the heart
• Diaphragm
• Abdominal Organs
• Abdominal organs
• The opposite side of the chest
• Distant lymph nodes

Stage 4 Mesothelioma Symptoms

Symptoms, such as tumors and metastasis, for this cancer are most prominent in stage four. Tumors growing in the chest can cause severe pain and difficulty breathing. New symptoms will develop as this cancer spreads to more parts of the body.

Palliative treatments to help ease the pain of these symptoms are available. Medication for nausea and fatigue is the most common palliative treatment. For severe symptoms regarding the chest, a doctor can reduce chest pain by draining fluid out of the chest area or use radiation to shrink tumors.

The common symptoms of stage 4 include:

• Pain when breathing
• Chest pain
• Coughing up blood
• Significant weight loss
• Lack of appetite
• Overall declining health
• Loss of mobility

Stage 4 Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Out of all the mesothelioma patients, 30% are diagnosed in stage four. The patient can develop tumors that will spread through their blood and into the lymph system.

To help find the areas where cancer has spread too, doctors will use MRI, CT, and PET scans. Radioactive glucose is used in PET scans to find areas that contain high glucose metabolism. On a PET scan, highlighted areas indicate where cancer cells are absorbing the glucose more than the normal cells are.

Stage 4 Mesothelioma Treatment

At this stage of cancer, some individuals are not able to have surgery due to the fact that the cancer is found in places that cannot be operated on. However, one option at this stage if palliative surgery.

Common palliative treatments include:

• Pleurodesis. Doctors will insert a talc substance in between the inner and outer lining of the lung that is affected to help stop the reoccurrence of pleural effusions. The talc that is injected will fill up the spaces where the toxic fluid would gather.
• Medications. The medicine is taken for this cancer typically helps with fatigue, pain, or nausea since there are none specifically for cancer itself.
• Radiation and Chemotherapy. To help reduce the symptoms of this cancer, radiation and chemotherapy are the most common treatments used. They help minimize tumors and prevent them from spreading and causing more damage.
• Draining Chest Fluid. Pleural effusions are when there is a buildup of fluid in the lining of the chest and lungs. Doctors typically inject a needle to draw the fluid out from the chest to help the lungs expand and make breathing easier.

Is Curative Surgery an Option at Stage 4 Mesothelioma?

Comforting treatments are still an option at this stage, but doctors looking for more radical methods. Being a part of clinical trials, doctors have suggested radical surgery for patients at this stage, which resulted in some living months or years longer than expected.

SMART Stands for “Surgery for Mesothelioma After Radiation Therapy”

Attacking and shrinking the tumors using radiation is the goal doctors have before they perform surgery. Doctors have also used higher doses of radiation on tumors in more extreme cases.  After radiation, EPP surgery is done to completely remove the infected lung.

Surgeons remove the exposed tumors and lungs before the radiation can jeopardize the patient. Twenty- four patients had this procedure with stage three and four stages of mesothelioma, one in an earlier stage. The treatment was completed on all patients with very minor symptoms. Twenty-one out of the twenty- four lived at least 3 years after the procedure, making the survival rate 84%. Patients were carefully chosen based on overall health and tumors to partake in the SMART study.

Aggressive surgery is not typically an option with patients with stage four mesothelioma. Radiation and chemotherapy are the only treatments that attempt to control the spreading of this disease. The average rate of survival of a patient with stage four is less than a year.

Next Step for Stage 4 Patients

Regardless if the patient is at stage four, or at a lesser stage and is getting worse, they have options to take action.

• Get a Second Opinion. Mesothelioma is misdiagnosed for other diseases quite often, getting a second opinion is very valuable to be certain.
• Treatment. Doctors will insert a talc substance in between the inner and outer lining of the lung that is affected to help stop the reoccurrence of pleural effusions. The talc that is injected will fill up the spaces where the toxic fluid would gather.
• Try Alternative Mesothelioma Treatment. The medicine is taken for this cancer typically helps with fatigue, pain, or nausea since there are none specifically for cancer itself.
• Enroll in a Clinical Trial: Clinical trials for mesothelioma are not as common, most of which will be clinical trials for stage 4 mesothelioma. It does not hurt to search and enroll in any clinical trials that are available.
• File a Mesothelioma Lawsuit. The medicine is taken for this cancer typically helps with fatigue, pain, or nausea since there are none specifically for cancer itself.

Clinical trials have helped many victims that were in stage four, live longer. With a diagnosis, patients will face a choice they have to make, but they may be eligible for a clinical trial. There is also a treatment that is available to help with symptoms. We are here to help regardless of your decision. We can help you understand the mesothelioma claim time limit or how to file a mesothelioma claim. A West Virginia mesothelioma lawyer can help victims of asbestos exposure in West Virginia. Information on Stage 3 mesothelioma can be found here.

The post What is Stage 4 Mesothelioma? appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/what-is-stage-4-mesothelioma/

Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos | Are they Safe?

Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos has been used for decades in the past throughout our nation. Between the 1950s and 1980s, workers favored the use of spray-on textured ceilings within buildings – an easy way to hide imperfections. During this period, however, asbestos as a building material was in high demand. A mesothelioma lawyer at our firm can help you understand mesothelioma claim time limit.

These spray-on textures, also known as “cottage cheese ceiling”, “stucco ceiling”, and/or “popcorn ceiling” were 1 to 10 percent asbestos.

There are two options that can be done to determine if an old popcorn ceiling contains asbestos. The first is locating an asbestos abatement professional. Although it is more expensive, hiring a professional is considered safer. The second option is to purchase a test kit. A sample of the ceiling must be collected and sent to a laboratory if a test kit is bought.

While testing samples for asbestos, inspectors also recommend that owners check paint for lead.

If asbestos is found within a popcorn ceiling, what should be done?

The decision to encapsulate or remove the ceiling must be made; in the meantime, it is essential to ensure that the ceiling is not disturbed as it is dangerous if any percentage of asbestos is found within popcorn ceilings.

Popcorn ceiling is a friable material, which means it can be damaged very easily. At the slightest disturbance, toxic dust can be released by the frangible asbestos materials. Serious, life-threatening illnesses can be developed as a result of inhaling these asbestos dust – including asbestosis, lung cancer, and/or mesothelioma.

Many precautionary measures are needed to remove the asbestos popcorn ceiling, which should be left to qualified professionals.

It is the Crumbliness; Not the Percentage

Although ceilings containing high percentages of asbestos are worse, low percentage ceilings are nonetheless dangerous. Regardless of whether your popcorn ceiling contains 1 percent asbestos or 10 percent asbestos the advice will remain the same.

As long as it remains undisturbed and/or properly encapsulated, the ceiling will not jeopardize the health of anyone. Professional removal is the safest decision for clients.

Spray-on asbestos products posed as a significant health risk for the employees until their banning due to the Clean Air Act of 1978.

Despite the banning, popcorn ceiling asbestos was still being applied going into the ’80s since companies were allowed to use their existing inventory of products.

Compared to other common asbestos materials left in old houses, the brittleness and breakability of the popcorn ceiling place it in a different class.

For instance, vinyl asbestos floor tiles can be walked on carefully – as long as they are not sanded, scraped, or smashed. But with popcorn ceilings, even a slight brush of the hand against the surface can result in a release of toxic dust. This makes it equally dangerous as old asbestos pipe insulation.

Tips for Living with Asbestos Popcorn Ceiling

• Be careful not to scrape the ceiling when moving furniture or long objects
• Be sure children do not throw toys or pillows at the ceiling
• Do not disturb the ceiling with nails, screws or tape
• Do not place shelving so high that items might accidentally scrape the ceiling
• Do not put a bunk bed in a room with popcorn ceiling asbestos if said bed gives access to touch the ceiling
• Encapsulation or removal must be done if the ceiling starts to peel down as a result of age or dampness

Encapsulation of Asbestos Popcorn Ceiling

The covering of asbestos material so asbestos dust cannot be released is known as encapsulation. Vinyl paint or new ceiling panels are two common ways of covering the popcorn ceiling containing asbestos.

Special vinyl paint can be utilized to spray the ceiling. It is important to note that ordinary house paint will not work as a substitution. In reality, coating normal paint on the ceiling will cause the exposure that is trying to be prevented. Though spray-on vinyl paint is permitted, the old texture of the popcorn ceiling asbestos will still be visible. A West Virginia mesothelioma lawyer at our firm can help you file a mesothelioma claim.

Gypsum board ceiling panels, a material that is similar to drywall but lighter, can be used to cover popcorn ceilings by being screwed into the framing. It is in the best interest of a client to hire a professional that has the knowledge and skill to mud and tape the new ceiling accurately.

Encapsulating asbestos is a safe solution, but if renovations or demolitions are conducted then the asbestos will become a dangerous obstacle once again. In the case of selling a home or building, it will be required for the owner to inform potential buyers of the records of asbestos. If you or a loved one is searching for an Indiana mesothelioma lawyer, Ohio mesothelioma lawyer, or a new york mesothelioma lawyer, speak with someone at our firm for help.

How to Remove Asbestos Popcorn Ceiling

Asbestos abatement is always better when performed correctly from the start. After all, it is much more expensive to clean up contamination after the fact.

Hiring a professional is mandatory for many homeowners, while for others it is strongly recommended.

By law in various locations, the removal of asbestos from multifamily homes and/or commercial buildings often requires the recruitment of qualified professionals.

Owners of single-family homes are normally allowed to remove their own asbestos. Although every state and city have their own regulations, it is still strongly urged that clients hire a professional to complete the job for the safety and health of an individual and/or their families.

Precautions for Safely Removing Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos 

• Contact a landfill or trash-pickup service that can accept asbestos in advanced.
• Keep all pets and people (without protective gear) away from the area.
• Keep popcorn ceiling material wet to help prevent dust from getting into the air.
• Removal of furniture and applying a protective plastic covering to whatever is left in the room.
• Place asbestos-containing waste in closed, labeled plastic bags.
• Seal both doors and windows with plastic flaps.
• Turn off the air conditioning, heating, and ventilation units to avoid dispersal of contamination throughout the home.
• Wear a respirator with a high-efficiency particulate air filter and set up an air purifier.
• Wear disposable coveralls to protect skin and hair to keep off ceiling debris.

It can be costly to ignore these guidelines; asbestos contamination due to careless renovations are not usually covered by insurance policies. As a result, homeowners may be left with a large bill for asbestos abatement- and – face major health risks in the future. If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with stage 4 mesothelioma or stage 3 mesothelioma, speak with us for help.

The post Popcorn Ceiling Asbestos | Are they Safe? appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/popcorn-ceiling-asbestos-are-they-safe/

Ohio Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations

Statute of Limitations for Mesothelioma in Ohio

If you or a loved one is facing a mesothelioma diagnosis, you might be considering filing a case related to your illness. Legal options for pursuing a case related to your mesothelioma consist of filing a personal injury claim or filing a wrongful death suit. When filing cases of this nature, it is essential to consider statute of limitation for the state you live in. Statute of limitations is a legal term that describes the amount of time that a person has to file a case legally. An Ohio Mesothelioma lawyer at our firm can help you file a mesothelioma claim. It is essential to review the specific statutes of limitations for these case types.

Mesothelioma Personal Injury Claims in Ohio

Personal injury claims will be filed by you if you are facing a mesothelioma diagnosis. With a personal injury claim, the statute of limitations on your case would start on the day of the initial diagnosis of mesothelioma. In the state of Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is two years. Therefore, if you wish to pursue a personal injury case related to your mesothelioma diagnosis, it is imperative that you act quickly and contact an Ohio asbestos attorney about your situation. An attorney will be able to assess your case and help you to take the necessary actions to get the justice you deserve.

Mesothelioma Wrongful Death Claims in Ohio

If one of your loved one has passed away as a result of mesothelioma, you have the legal right to pursue a wrongful death lawsuit on his or her behalf. In the state of Ohio, the statute of limitations for a wrongful death claim is the same as for personal injury cases: two years. The statute of limitations begins on the day that your loved one passes away. Much like personal injury cases, it is essential that you quickly contact an Ohio mesothelioma lawyer about your case.

Conclusion

When it comes to filing a legal case in pursuit of justice after a mesothelioma diagnosis, it is important to remember that the time frame for doing so requires that you act quickly. Ohio mesothelioma personal injury claims must be filed, and the case brought to completion within two years of the initial mesothelioma diagnosis. Likewise, Ohio mesothelioma wrongful death claims must be filed, and the case brought to a conclusion within two years of the death of the person in question. If you are considering a case of this nature, be sure to reach out to our attorneys about how they can help you with your case.

Get The GPW Advantage in Ohio

Here at GPW, we will always have an Ohio mesothelioma lawyer ready to help you. Our highly experienced mesothelioma attorneys are standing by 24/7 to help you. Working with an Ohio asbestos lawyer can be beneficial to anyone that was diagnosed with mesothelioma that has a known history of asbestos exposure. If you or a loved are actively searching for a mesothelioma lawyer, speak with an experienced Ohio mesothelioma lawyer at GPW. With over 40 years of experience, we are hard to beat.

The post Ohio Mesothelioma Statute of Limitations appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/ohio-mesothelioma-statute-of-limitations/

How to file an Ohio Mesothelioma Lawsuit

An Ohio mesothelioma lawyer at GPW Law can help you understand how to file an Ohio mesothelioma lawsuit. If you are facing a mesothelioma diagnosis, or your loved one has passed away as a result of a battle with mesothelioma, you may be entitled to compensation. Depending on your unique situation, you might be eligible to file a personal injury claim or a wrongful death suit. An Ohio asbestos attorney can advise you about whether or not you are eligible to file, and what steps you should take in order to get the justice you deserve.

Filing a Personal Injury Claim in Ohio for a Mesothelioma Diagnosis

In the state of Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally two years. The clock starts ticking on this time limit from the moment that you receive a mesothelioma diagnosis. This means that you must act quickly if you wish to file a claim in regards to your mesothelioma diagnosis. Contacting an Ohio mesothelioma attorney as soon as possible after your diagnosis will ensure that you have access to the information you need about filing a claim as quickly as possible.

An Ohio asbestos lawyer will review your case and advise on what actions you should take. He or she will also be able to help you understand what damages you can be compensated for, calculate the monetary amount to which you may be entitled, and present your case in court. The state of Ohio allows for different types of compensation for personal injury damages. This means that if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma, you can seek damages such as:

• Money for pain and suffering
• Compensation for lost wages
• Payments to cover your medical expenses
• Punitive costs to punish the party who is in the wrong.

Filing a Wrongful Death Claim in Ohio When a Loved One Passes From Mesothelioma

The statute of limitations for wrongful death claims in Ohio is also two years. Ohio law allows certain family members to file claims in the event of a loved one’s death. These family members include:

• The deceased person’s parents
• The deceased person’s children
• The deceased person’s spouse.

A wrongful death case can provide damages for different types of losses including:

• Support
• Services
• Care
• Advice or counsel
• Prospective inheritance.

Family members can also be compensated for mental anguish that has resulted from their loved one’s passing. An Ohio mesothelioma lawyer can review your case and help you file an Ohio mesothelioma claim to work through the emotional process of seeking financial compensation and justice for the wrongful death of your loved one.

Conclusion

If you wish to file a claim for your mesothelioma case, consult with a mesothelioma lawyer as quickly as possible. He or she can help you to figure out what steps need to be taken. Your attorney will also be able to act on your behalf in getting you the compensation that you deserve. Even if you or your loved one were diagnosed with mesothelioma in a different state, we can provide you with a New York mesothelioma lawyer, and an Indiana mesothelioma lawyer to help you.

The post How to file an Ohio Mesothelioma Lawsuit appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/how-to-file-an-ohio-mesothelioma-lawsuit/

Five Places Hiding Asbestos in 2018

Five Places Hiding Asbestos in 2018

Diseases resulting from exposure to materials containing asbestos continue to cause thousands of deaths on an annual basis. These diseases typically consist of asbestosis cancers such as lung cancer or mesothelioma. Part of the fight against these diseases includes seeking to eliminate the root cause of the problem by preventing asbestos exposure, banning the use of asbestos, and enforcing current regulations regarding the use of asbestos. We are the leading mesothelioma lawyers in Michigan.

Frequently, people assume that the government has already banned asbestos. This assumption leads them to believe that the possibility of asbestos exposure is not something with which they should be concerned. Unfortunately, that is not the case. While the US Environmental Protection Agency did present a ban of asbestos in 1989, the proposition was eventually overturned at the judicial level.

While asbestos use is not currently banned, it is regulated. Certain products such as spray-on insulation, flooring felt, and commercial paper are not permitted to be made up of asbestos-containing materials. However, a wide range of products are legally allowed to contain asbestos – the majority of which are materials for purposes related to building construction. This means that many of the spaces in which people spend time contain substances that could be potentially harmful. The following types of buildings have been noted to be potential hiding places of asbestos-containing materials. We can help you find a Maryland mesothelioma lawyer, contact us today.

Churches

Materials containing asbestos tend to be used for purposes such as soundproofing or fire prevention. Because of this, churches have historically used asbestos-containing materials in the construction of their buildings. Panels containing asbestos were placed in walls and ceilings to reduce reverberation levels. Asbestos was also used for insulation purposes pipes and boilers. Church maintenance workers tend to be at the highest risk of asbestos exposure. However anyone, who works in the building or attends church there may be at risk of exposure. If you or a loved one is searching for a Florida mesothelioma lawyer we can help you.

Schools

Materials containing asbestos are often found in pipe and boiler insulation, HVAC ductwork, vinyl flooring, and ceiling tiles. The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) was enacted in response to major issues with a high presence of asbestos-containing materials in schools. Under this act, schools are required to undergo an inspection of the entire building with the goal of locating any and all asbestos-containing materials. They are also expected to create plans for managing any asbestos found and to take any necessary measures for preventing and reducing exposure to asbestos. While AHERA has greatly reduced the amount of asbestos in school buildings, unfortunately, there are still buildings containing asbestos-based materials.

Public buildings

Many public buildings built before 1980 contain asbestos-based construction materials. These include structures such as theaters, restaurants, police stations, government buildings, pharmacies, grocery stores, shopping malls, hair salons, and airports. While asbestos use in public buildings has dramatically decreased since this time, newly constructed buildings sometimes contain asbestos-based materials such as vinyl tiles, cement piping, and roofing materials. A lung cancer lawyer is very valuable to anyone diagnosed with stage 4 mesothelioma.

Hospitals

Because asbestos has fireproofing qualities, it was often used in the construction of hospitals or to protect medical devices from overheating. Because of this hospital workers may be at risk for asbestos exposure. This is particularly true for maintenance and construction workers.

Your Own Home

While it is a common assumption that asbestos is only found in older homes, this is just not true. Asbestos-containing materials can be found in new homes as well. A Michigan asbestos lawyer can help you understand Michigan mesothelioma statute of limitations. In older homes, asbestos is typically found in the following places:

• Attic insulation
• Putties and materials used for caulking
• Electrical panels
• Plaster
• Plumbing fixtures
• Insulation for boilers or fireplaces
• Asbestos Popcorn Ceilings
• Vinyl floor tiles
• Drywall and Joint compound tape

In new homes asbestos may be found in:

• Cement shingles
• Pipeline wrap and millboard
• Sheets and Pipes
• Flooring and roofing materials

It is essential that if you suspect your home has asbestos-containing materials that you do not make any attempt to remove the asbestos yourself. Asbestos should never be disturbed, as that is what leads to exposure and the issues that come along with exposure. If you suspect that your home contains asbestos, you should contact an expert regarding safe identification and potential removal of the materials.

Conclusion

Exposure to asbestos can lead to long-term adverse health effects, including potentially fatal diseases. If you have been exposed to asbestos and you have developed a condition such as mesothelioma or asbestosis, as a result, contact one of our Michigan mesothelioma lawyers today. We can help you to seek the compensation you deserve. Even if you or a loved one is searching for a New York mesothelioma lawyer, we can also assist you.

The post Five Places Hiding Asbestos in 2018 appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/five-places-hiding-asbestos-in-2018/

Surgery Plus HIPEC Only ‘Potential for Cure’ of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

Surgery Plus HIPEC Only ‘Potential for Cure’ of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

In the case of peritoneal mesothelioma, one of the best treatment options is the combination of heated chemotherapy and cytoreductive surgery. Heated chemotherapy is called hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC).  A study published in the February 2018 has shown the value of this therapy for treating asbestos-related cancer. In this study, the researchers in the United Kingdom analyzed the 9.5 years of data on the patients of peritoneal mesothelioma that were treated with HIPEC and CRS.

The results of this study show that the combination of the CRS and HIPEC is very beneficial for the patients of both malignant and low-grade mesothelioma and it still has the best potential for cure.

Using CRS and HIPEC Together For Mesothelioma Treatment

Peritoneal mesothelioma has less than 20 percent of all mesothelioma diagnosis cases worldwide. Peritoneal mesothelioma is a disease that affects the lining of the abdomen. The treatment for peritoneal mesothelioma is similar to the other asbestos-related cancers. For most patients the combination of the following treatments is very promising:

HIPEC (Hyperthermic Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy)

In this treatment, a concentrated heated mesothelioma chemotherapy treatment is placed into the abdomen during the surgery. With this form of treatment, chemotherapy is directly delivered to the cancer cells in the infected area.

CRS (Cytoreductive Surgery)

This is a form of debulking surgery in which the doctor removes as much of the tumor as possible. In this surgery, the doctors try to remove all visible cancer with curative intent.

Categories of Peritoneal Mesothelioma

There are two types of peritoneal mesothelioma. One is called low-grade peritoneal mesothelioma and the other is called malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. The first category includes well-differentiated papillary mesothelioma and the cell-type multicystic mesothelioma.

In the second type of the mesothelioma, the tumors tend to be more aggressive and include biphasic, epithelioid and sarcomatoid subtypes.

 

Surgery Plus HIPEC is a Powerful Combination

The researchers have found the combination of the HIPEC and surgery very effective in low-grade mesothelioma. After the successful and complete cytoreduction of patients, a 100% overall survival rate is observed with low-grade peritoneal mesothelioma. Although it is not able to cure the more aggressive type of peritoneal mesothelioma it is effective in the low-grade form of peritoneal mesothelioma.

Treatments and Outcomes

In the study, there were patients that ranged in age from 21 to 73 from which 45 percent were female. About half of these patients had the low-grade disease and the other half had diffuse malignant peritoneal mesothelioma. The 26 percent of the patients had tumor debunk which means that nearly all of the tumor was removed, but not 100% of the visible tumor. The other sixty-eight percent of patients had complete tumor removal.

The remaining patients just had biopsies for the diagnosis of the tumor. Of which, 88 percent of patients with low-grade peritoneal mesothelioma that were treated with HIPEC were still alive by the end of the study. If we consider both aggressive and low-grade peritoneal mesothelioma the survival rate was about five years. Average survival rate was 97.8 months which is about 8 years, this timeframe which includes people living with the disease after it recurs.

Who We Are

For over Forty Years the mesothelioma cancer attorneys at GPW have represented thousands of mesothelioma & asbestos exposure victims nationwide. We understand victims of asbestos exposure like no other, thats why we provide them the GPW Advantage. The GPW advantage includes having our professional team of dedicated paralegals & mesothelioma attorneys spend numerous hours investigating your case to get you or your loved one the best possible financial compensation for their case. Our mesothelioma law firm does not earn money unless you do and we are on call 24/7 to help you. If you or your loved one has been recently diagnosed with mesothelioma, do not be reluctant to call us & get the GPW Advantage. For those looking for a New York Mesothelioma Lawyer, Maryland Mesothelioma Lawyer, Florida Mesothelioma lawyer or simply America’s leading mesothelioma lawyer, we can help you.

The post Surgery Plus HIPEC Only ‘Potential for Cure’ of Peritoneal Mesothelioma appeared first on Goldberg, Persky & White P.C..

source https://www.gpwlaw-mi.com/surgery-plus-hipec-only-potential-for-cure-of-peritoneal-mesothelioma/