Common Causes of Lung Cancer

Several toxic substances found in workplace environments can cause lung cancer and respiratory complications. Even individuals without direct exposure may develop the disease through secondhand sources. Common contributors include:

Asbestos Exposure

These microscopic fibers can become airborne and inhaled. Once lodged in the lungs, the asbestos fibers remain trapped, causing inflammation and scarring over time, potentially leading to lung cancer and mesothelioma.

Air Pollution

Long-term exposure to air pollution significantly increases the risk of lung cancer, especially in urban areas or industrial regions. Pollutants can come from several sources, such as diesel exhaust, ozone, or factory emissions like arsenic. These small particles can penetrate deep into the lungs, causing chronic inflammation that fosters cancer development.

Silica Dust

This mineral is found in materials like sand, stone, concrete, and brick and is commonly used in construction, masonry, sandblasting, stone cutting, and foundries. Repeated exposure to silica dust damages the lungs, creating an environment that promotes cancer growth.

Benzene

Benzene is a colorless chemical frequently found in the manufacturing of plastics, rubber, resins, and synthetic fibers. It is a known carcinogen, contributing to both lung cancer and leukemia through prolonged inhalation or absorption through the skin.

Radon Gas

Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that forms as a result of decaying uranium underground. It’s odorless and invisible, making it difficult to detect without specialized testing. It can seep into homes and buildings through cracks in the foundation or gaps in walls, especially in poorly ventilated spaces. It can pose a high cancer risk for even non-smokers because the damage may go undetected until cancer develops.

What Is a Mass Tort Case for Lung Cancer?

Mass tort lawsuits allow multiple victims to bring claims against negligent companies that caused them harm. Unlike class actions, where everyone shares the same outcome, mass torts treat each plaintiff individually. This approach allows victims to receive compensation tailored to their specific medical costs, lost wages, and pain but allows the court to hear multiple cases with similar facts simultaneously.

If you’re wondering whether you qualify for a Tennessee lung cancer claim, take our quick and confidential quiz. It only takes a few minutes and it’s the first step in seeking justice and compensation.

Potential Compensation Available in Lung Cancer Claims

Lung cancer treatments can create a financial burden and may prevent victims from working. Compensation obtained through a mass tort claim can ease this stress by covering various cancer-related losses, including:

Medical Expenses

You can include all disease-related medical expenses in your claim. This can include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, immunotherapy, hospital stays, diagnostic tests, long-term medication, and extended care.

Lost Wages

You can pursue compensation for missed income due to the cancer and its treatment. You can also pursue compensation for any vacation or sick days used for missing work.

Loss of Future Earning Potential

If lung cancer limits your ability to return to your job, you can pursue compensation for loss of future earnings. You can include this in your claim by evaluating potential career trajectory, expected promotions, and potential raises. This compensation can make sure victims and their families do not suffer long-term financial instability due to the cancer diagnosis.

Pain and Suffering

You can seek compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress that lung cancer can cause. This type of compensation acknowledges the impact of lung cancer on the body and mind.

Loss of Enjoyment of Life

If lung cancer takes away your ability to participate in activities you previously enjoyed, you can pursue compensation to cover this loss. Loss of enjoyment of life represents the emotional loss of cherished experiences and personal fulfillment that patients may experience.

Wrongful Death Claims

If a patient dies from lung cancer due to exposure, the surviving family members can pursue a wrongful death claim. These claims allow families to seek compensation for funeral expenses, medical bills incurred before death, and loss of financial support. Families can also seek compensation for the emotional toll of losing their loved one’s guidance and companionship.

How a Tennessee Lung Cancer Attorney Can Help

An attorney can play a crucial role in lung cancer cases and relieve the burden of pursuing a claim so you can focus on your health and family. You’ll want to find a lawyer with experience handling mass torts. They can handle the entire process, including:

  • Identifying Responsible Parties – They can conduct thorough investigations by reviewing a victim’s work history, medical records, and any potential exposure or employer negligence.
  • Collecting Evidence — Attorneys will gather the necessary evidence to prove your claim, including employment records, medical reports, and any safety violations. This evidence is crucial to support your claim and link the lung cancer diagnosis to toxic exposure.
  • Negotiating with Insurers — Mass tort lawyers handle all communications with defendants, their attorneys, and insurance companies. They’ll fight for compensation to cover your losses, avoiding lowball offers and looking out for your best interests.

At Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers, we’re not afraid of a challenge, and we’re happy to be your advocate. We encourage you to take our free quiz to get started.

Contact a Tennessee Lung Cancer Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one is facing the challenges of lung cancer due to toxic exposure, it’s essential to have reliable legal support. The experienced Tennessee lung cancer attorneys at Hughes & Coleman Injury Lawyers can help. We’ll handle your claim while you focus on your health, and you’ll only pay us if we win. Complete our free questionnaire today.

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