Recent reports show that the asbestos-related illness, mesothelioma, is still a prevalent problem in the United States.

According to studies, tens of thousands of blue-collar workers are being robbed of their golden years after developing this disease.

Many claim that mesothelioma has been overlooked by researchers until recently, and has been ignored by companies who knew of the dangers of asbestos.

Lawsuits Filed

In recent years, more medical research is being conducted on the plaguing asbestos problem in America and former plumbers, mechanics and Navy shipbuilders are suing their previous employers for their health issues.

“Some of these companies are being held accountable, but it doesn’t make the whole circumstance easier to deal with,” explains Michael Levesque who recently lost his mother to mesothelioma. “It wasn’t about money. I’d rather have my mom here.”

Companies Accused of Hiding Asbestos Problems

Barry Castleman, a Maryland asbestos expert claims the history of the asbestos cover-up is well documented and similar to the tobacco cover-up of the 1980’s.

Castleman sides with the many plaintiffs who are filing suits, stating that many companies have hid the results of their employee health studies and continued to profit from asbestos.

“The companies knew plenty about toxic substances. It’s extraordinary how much they did know. The workers didn’t know, nobody was telling them. The unions knew little or nothing,” says Castleman.

More Research Being Done on Mesothelioma

According to Chris Hahn, the director of Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation in California, mesothelioma is an illness that “has been ignored for decades.”

Doctors claim that following the many suits and continuing health problems, health care physicians are doing more research on the disease and finding better treatments.

(Source: Boston Herald)

Have you or someone you know been diagnosed with mesothelioma? If so, please contact us to speak with an asbestos attorney who will enable your case to be heard in court and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.