It’s no secret that asbestos exposure can cause mesothelioma, a type of cancer that typically forms in the tissue around the lungs or abdomen. The vast majority of mesothelioma cases are related to asbestos exposure, which is why there are lawsuits to get compensation for victims and their families.
Recently, a protein linked to asbestos-induced mesothelioma was identified by the University of Hawaii. These findings could help us better understand the disease and treat it in the future.
Read on to learn more about this research and its potential impact on mesothelioma victims.
The Study’s Findings
The researchers found that exposure to asbestos causes mesothelial cells (the cells in the tissue around the lungs or abdomen) to release a protein called high mobility group box 1 (HMGB1).
This protein triggers the release of a second protein, tumor necrosis factor (TNFa), which causes inflammation. The chronic inflammatory process started by these proteins eventually turns into mesothelioma..
Why It’s Important
There are three reasons why the study findings are so important:
- It may help determine why some people get mesothelioma while others do not. Looking at genes that affect the production of HMGB1 might teach us more about genetic risk factors.
- Researchers may use it to develop new ways of preventing and treating mesothelioma. For example, researchers could potentially create a drug for use after asbestos exposure to reduce the risk of developing mesothelioma.
- Asbestos is the sole cause of mesothelioma. This discovery may make it easier to investigate cases with no history of asbestos exposure.
Do You Qualify for a Mesothelioma Lawsuit?
Authorities banned the use of asbestos in construction in 1989. However, mesothelioma can take many years to develop, and medical professionals continue to diagnose new cases.
Since researchers discovered the link between asbestos and mesothelioma in 1943, it is reasonable to hold companies that continue to use asbestos responsible.
You can sue for wrongful death on behalf of a loved one or for medical expenses related to your own mesothelioma development. You may receive compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering or loss of consortium.
If a loved one has received a mesothelioma diagnosis due to prior asbestos exposure, you may have the option to file a lawsuit against your former employer or other parties responsible for the exposure. Contact Nadrich & Cohen online or by phone at (800) 718-46580 for a free case consultation today.
Jeffrey Nadrich
Jeffrey Nadrich is a nationally-recognized California plaintiff’s personal injury attorney. He is a graduate of UC Berkeley and UC Hastings College of the Law. He has successfully represented thousands of injury clients over the last 40 years.
