Many industrial workers and mechanics, among many other occupations, are exposed to asbestos and other dangerous chemicals on a daily basis while at work. Work-related exposure to asbestos can cause you to develop mesothelioma. If you are diagnosed with mesothelioma because of work-related exposure to asbestos and other chemicals you have rights under workers’ compensation laws. What Is Workers’ Compensation? Many of the benefits that workers’ compensation offers are available to employees who are diagnosed with work-related diseases. Each state has laws that require most employers to provide a workers’ compensation insurance policy. This coverage is available for workers at no charge. It’s a special type of insurance that protects people who are diagnosed with a work-related disease like mesothelioma. Mesothelioma and Asbestos Asbestos has been determined to be a carcinogen (cancer-causing substance) by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Any level of exposure is considered dangerous. The longer a worker is exposed to asbestos the more likely they are to be diagnosed with mesothelioma. Exposure occurs when asbestos fibers are breathed into the lungs. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that can occur in the lungs, chest, and around the heart. Although many industries have stopped using asbestos, it was used for many years and as a result, many older Americans were exposed to it. Retired workers who worked in ship yards, worked as auto mechanics, or even installed insulation all have likely handled asbestos. The following are common symptoms of mesothelioma: Fatigue Cough Shortness of breath Fever Muscle Weakness Anemia Abdominal bloating Advanced symptoms include chest pain, abdominal pain, continual bloating, weight loss, and respiratory complications. Treatment for mesothelioma includes chemotherapy, radiation, biopsies, and surgery. Workers’ Compensation Can Help You You should consider filing a workers’ compensation claim if you are diagnosed with mesothelioma that is associated with your job. Filing a claim can help you get the medical care and treatment that you will need. Treating mesothelioma can be a lengthy battle that can cost a lot of money – even with private health insurance. It’s also likely that you will not be able to work during treatment. Workers’ compensation provides many helpful benefits that you may be eligible to receive. Assistance with medical costs. Workers’ compensation can help cover the costs of mesothelioma treatment – surgery, examination, radiation, chemotherapy, medications, rehabilitation, and follow-up visits. Lost pay. If you are unable to work after your diagnosis of mesothelioma and during treatment, you may be eligible to receive a portion of your lost wages or even qualify for temporary or permanent disability through workers’ compensation. If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, it’s important that you get a consultation with a worker’s compensation attorney - as soon as possible. If you need help getting all the benefits required get treatment for mesothelioma, an experienced attorney can help you. It’s important that you know your rights under workers’ compensation laws. A workers’ compensation lawyer can answer any questions you may have.
