While smoking is the number one cause of cancer related deaths in the United States, asbestos remains the number one cause of cancer related occupational deaths. Smoking cigarettes does increase the risk of various forms of cancer and even increases the risk of asbestos related ailments such as asbestosis but cigarette smoking does not significantly increase the probability of being diagnosed with mesothelioma.
The Difference Between Smoking Related Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma
There are three main differences between smoking related lung cancer and mesothelioma:
Where the cancer originates: smoking lung cancer actually originates in the lungs where mesothelioma originates in the lining of the lungs (most commonly) or the lining of the peritoneal (abdominal cavity), heart, and sometimes in the testicles.
What happens when you quit: When you quit smoking your body immediately begins to heal. The earlier you quit the more fully your body will recover. However, once you move on from your jobsite exposure, the asbestos fibers will remain in the lungs indefinitely. Asbestos fibers do not dissolve or pass through the body after they are inhaled or swallowed.
Toxin Penetration: The toxins in cigarette smoke cannot reach the depths that asbestos fibers can reach which further explains why smoking cannot be a risk factor for mesothelioma.
The Paul Law Firm advocates for victims of asbestos-related diseases. If you or a loved one is suffering from mesothelioma, call the Paul Law Firm. With over 2.5 billion dollars collected for victims of asbestos exposure, we have the knowledge and the experience to fight for you. We also understand that fighting doesn’t just happen in the courtroom. It also happens in a lab where we are fighting for a cure. Check out the Mesothelioma Research Foundation of America here.
Call us today at 1-855 88 LEGAL (885-3425) or contact us online to discuss your case with one of our experienced mesothelioma lawyers
