Most of our readers likely know that asbestos causes cancer, but few people understand just how dangerous this mineral substance actually is and how many serious medical conditions it can cause. Most people only think of mesothelioma when they think of asbestos-related illnesses.
Mesothelioma is a notoriously deadly and slow-growing cancer that could start showing symptoms decades after someone’s exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma is certainly not a medical condition to ignore or downplay, but it is not the only kind of cancer with a direct correlation to asbestos exposure.
People who work with asbestos may also be at risk for developing lung cancer. How long can that take?
Lung cancer may develop more quickly than mesothelioma does
Anyone who knows that they have had unprotected exposure to asbestos should make a point of letting their physician know. Monitoring yourself and seeing your doctor for exams consistently over the years may be the only way to catch signs of asbestos-related diseases early.
People who have been exposed to asbestos may develop symptoms of lung cancer sooner than they would note any signs of mesothelioma. They could find themselves dealing with shortness of breath or other warning signs of lung cancer as little as fifteen years after their asbestos exposure.
Regardless of how long it has been since you worked for a company, they still have a responsibility to you if your job caused your cancer. Those who develop lung cancer in the decades after doing a job where they were exposed to asbestos may be able to pursue compensation for their medical costs and other losses. An experienced attorney can provide valuable guidance.