Guide to Asbestos Trust Fund Claims - (800) 291-0963
Free Mesothelioma Consultation 800.291.0963
Free Mesothelioma Consultation 800.291.0963
Mesothelioma Cancer Statistics
Exploring - What Is Second Asbestos Exposure?
Second asbestos exposure, also known as secondary exposure, take-home exposure, or household asbestos exposure, happens when someone is exposed to asbestos fibers not at a job site, but through close contact with a person who was directly exposed—usually a spouse, parent, or roommate. This typically occurs when a worker brings asbestos dust home on their clothing, shoes, hair, skin, lunchboxes, or work equipment.
Before asbestos safety regulations were enforced, it was common for workers to go home in contaminated uniforms. Their family members could then inhale or ingest fibers that became airborne while doing laundry, cleaning out work bags, hugging them, or sitting on furniture where the fibers settled.
Secondhand asbestos exposure has been proven to cause serious illnesses, including mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer, even in people who never worked with asbestos directly. Women and children were especially at risk, and many decades later, cases of mesothelioma linked to secondary exposure are still being diagnosed.
🔍 Also Called:
- Secondary asbestos exposure
- Take-home asbestos exposure
- Household asbestos exposure
- Indirect asbestos exposure
✅ Quick Summary:
- Exposure happens at home, not on a job site
- Caused by contact with a worker who handled asbestos
- Affects spouses, children, and other family members
- Often linked to contaminated work clothes or equipment
- Can cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases
- Symptoms may appear 20–50 years after exposure
- Legal compensation may be available for secondary exposure victims
Why Choose Us?
25 Years Working With Diagnosed Mesothelioma Victims!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
FAQs About Secondhand Asbestos Exposure
Exploring - FAQs About Secondhand Asbestos Exposure
1. What is secondhand asbestos exposure?
Secondhand asbestos exposure occurs when someone is exposed to asbestos fibers through contact with a person who worked around asbestos. This often happens at home through contaminated clothing, hair, skin, or personal items.
2. Who is most at risk of secondhand exposure?
Family members of asbestos workers are most at risk. Spouses, children, and other household members often came into contact with asbestos dust brought home from industrial or construction jobs.
3. Can secondhand exposure cause mesothelioma?
Yes, secondhand exposure can cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. Many individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma never worked directly with asbestos but were exposed through a family member.
4. How long does it take for symptoms to appear?
Mesothelioma and asbestos-related diseases can take 20 to 50 years to develop. This long latency period makes it difficult to connect symptoms to the original source of exposure.
5. What jobs are linked to secondhand asbestos exposure?
Jobs such as construction, shipyard work, factory work, military service, and auto repair often involved asbestos. Workers in these fields brought fibers home on their uniforms or gear.
6. What are the symptoms of secondhand asbestos exposure?
Symptoms are the same as direct exposure and include shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent cough, fatigue, and weight loss. These may indicate mesothelioma, asbestosis, or asbestos-related lung cancer.
7. Is secondhand exposure legally recognized?
Yes, courts recognize secondhand asbestos exposure as a legitimate cause of mesothelioma. Many successful lawsuits and settlements have been awarded to people exposed indirectly.
8. Can I file a lawsuit if I have mesothelioma from secondhand exposure?
Yes, you may be eligible to file a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Many law firms specialize in secondhand asbestos exposure cases and offer free consultations.
9. Are there trust funds available for secondhand exposure?
Yes, asbestos trust funds may compensate victims of secondhand exposure. You may be able to file multiple claims if several companies contributed to the exposure.
10. What should I do if I suspect I was exposed?
Speak with a medical professional and an asbestos attorney. Early diagnosis improves outcomes, and legal guidance can help determine if you qualify for compensation through a claim or lawsuit.
Get Help Today!
25 Years Helping Asbestos Exposure Victims!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Settlements
Exploring - Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Verdicts and Settlements
💵 $30 Million Verdict – Exposed from Wife’s Work Clothing (Illinois)
A man developed mesothelioma after years of secondhand exposure from his wife’s work clothes. She unknowingly brought asbestos fibers home from her job. The jury awarded $30 million, recognizing the dangers of indirect exposure in the household setting.
💵 $43 Million Verdict – Homemaker Exposed from Husband’s Contaminated Clothing (California)
A woman developed pleural mesothelioma from laundering her husband’s asbestos-covered work clothes. He worked as a carpenter in asbestos-laden environments. The jury awarded $43 million, emphasizing the serious health risks of take-home asbestos exposure.
💵 $32 Million Verdict – Family Exposure from Multiple Relatives’ Jobs (South Carolina)
A woman was exposed to asbestos through the work clothing of her husband, father, and uncle. All were employed in high-risk jobs where asbestos was used. Her secondhand exposure led to mesothelioma, and the jury awarded $32 million in damages.
💵 $1.1 Million Verdict – Long-Term Spousal Exposure (Washington)
An elderly woman developed mesothelioma after decades of exposure to asbestos fibers from her husband’s work clothes. He worked in an environment where asbestos dust clung to clothing and surfaces. The court awarded $1.1 million for her suffering.
💵 $6.5 Million Verdict – Childhood Exposure from Father’s Shipyard Job (California)
A woman developed mesothelioma decades after being exposed as a child to asbestos on her father’s work clothes. He worked at a shipyard where asbestos was heavily used. The jury awarded $6.5 million, showing the lasting impact of take-home exposure.
✅ Key Points:
- Secondhand asbestos exposure can happen through clothing, skin, hair, and equipment brought home from work.
- Family members, especially spouses and children, are at serious risk for mesothelioma even without direct jobsite exposure.
- Jury awards for take-home asbestos exposure have ranged from $1.1 million to over $40 million.
- Victims may be eligible for legal claims and trust fund compensation.
Get Help Today!
25 Years Helping Asbestos Exposure Victims!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Settlements
Exploring - Secondhand Asbestos Exposure Verdicts and Settlements
💵 $30 Million Verdict – Exposed from Wife’s Work Clothing (Illinois)
A man developed mesothelioma after years of secondhand exposure from his wife’s work clothes. She unknowingly brought asbestos fibers home from her job. The jury awarded $30 million, recognizing the dangers of indirect exposure in the household setting.
💵 $43 Million Verdict – Homemaker Exposed from Husband’s Contaminated Clothing (California)
A woman developed pleural mesothelioma from laundering her husband’s asbestos-covered work clothes. He worked as a carpenter in asbestos-laden environments. The jury awarded $43 million, emphasizing the serious health risks of take-home asbestos exposure.
💵 $32 Million Verdict – Family Exposure from Multiple Relatives’ Jobs (South Carolina)
A woman was exposed to asbestos through the work clothing of her husband, father, and uncle. All were employed in high-risk jobs where asbestos was used. Her secondhand exposure led to mesothelioma, and the jury awarded $32 million in damages.
💵 $1.1 Million Verdict – Long-Term Spousal Exposure (Washington)
An elderly woman developed mesothelioma after decades of exposure to asbestos fibers from her husband’s work clothes. He worked in an environment where asbestos dust clung to clothing and surfaces. The court awarded $1.1 million for her suffering.
💵 $6.5 Million Verdict – Childhood Exposure from Father’s Shipyard Job (California)
A woman developed mesothelioma decades after being exposed as a child to asbestos on her father’s work clothes. He worked at a shipyard where asbestos was heavily used. The jury awarded $6.5 million, showing the lasting impact of take-home exposure.
✅ Key Points:
- Secondhand asbestos exposure can happen through clothing, skin, hair, and equipment brought home from work.
- Family members, especially spouses and children, are at serious risk for mesothelioma even without direct jobsite exposure.
- Jury awards for take-home asbestos exposure have ranged from $1.1 million to over $40 million.
- Victims may be eligible for legal claims and trust fund compensation.
Get Help Today!
25 Years Helping Asbestos Exposure Victims!
Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
What Are Mesothelioma Symptoms?
Recognizing the Symptoms of Mesothelioma: What You Need to Know
Mesothelioma symptoms can vary depending on the type of mesothelioma (pleural, peritoneal, or pericardial) and the stage of the disease. Many of these symptoms are common to other conditions, making early detection challenging. Here's a closer look at common mesothelioma symptoms:
Shortness of Breath: Often caused by fluid buildup around the lungs, shortness of breath is a common symptom in pleural mesothelioma, making it difficult to breathe or take deep breaths, leading to discomfort and fatigue.
Chest Pain: Chest pain, which may be sharp or dull, is a frequent symptom of pleural mesothelioma. This pain is typically caused by tumor growth, irritation of the pleura, or pressure from fluid buildup in the chest cavity.
Persistent Cough: A chronic cough, often worsening over time, can be a sign of mesothelioma, particularly when accompanied by other symptoms like chest pain or blood in the sputum. It can indicate irritation in the lungs due to tumor growth.
Fatigue: One of the most common symptoms, fatigue in mesothelioma patients is often overwhelming and persistent. It can occur even with adequate rest, causing a general feeling of weakness and exhaustion that interferes with daily activities.
Unexplained Weight Loss: Sudden and unexplained weight loss is a typical sign of mesothelioma, particularly in the advanced stages. It can be a result of the body’s response to the cancer, leading to a loss of appetite and difficulty maintaining weight.
Night Sweats: Night sweats in mesothelioma patients are often associated with fever or systemic inflammation caused by the cancer. They can interfere with sleep and are usually accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever and chills.
Fever: Fever, often mild or low-grade, is a symptom in mesothelioma cases. It’s typically linked to inflammation in the body caused by the presence of cancer cells, contributing to the overall feeling of discomfort.
Coughing Up Blood: Hemoptysis, or coughing up blood, is a serious symptom of mesothelioma, especially in pleural cases. It occurs when the cancer has progressed to affect the respiratory tract or cause bleeding within the lungs.
Difficulty Swallowing: Known as dysphagia, difficulty swallowing can occur in mesothelioma, especially in cases involving peritoneal or esophageal mesothelioma. This happens due to tumors affecting the esophagus or surrounding areas, making swallowing painful or difficult.
Abdominal Pain: Abdominal discomfort is common in peritoneal mesothelioma. It may be dull, aching pain, or more severe and associated with swelling or bloating due to fluid accumulation or tumor growth in the abdominal cavity.
Nausea and Vomiting: These symptoms are often present in patients with peritoneal mesothelioma due to the tumor's impact on the digestive system, leading to nausea, loss of appetite, and frequent vomiting as the disease progresses.
Swelling in Abdomen: Abdominal swelling or bloating is another symptom of peritoneal mesothelioma. This is typically caused by the accumulation of fluid in the abdomen (ascites) and is associated with discomfort and digestive issues.
Bowel Changes: Mesothelioma, especially peritoneal mesothelioma, can cause bowel issues such as constipation or diarrhea. This is due to the tumor’s effects on the digestive system or blockage caused by fluid buildup in the abdomen.
Anemia: Anemia, or a low red blood cell count, is common in mesothelioma patients. It can cause fatigue, weakness, and paleness, as the body struggles to deliver enough oxygen to tissues due to insufficient red blood cells.
Hoarseness: Changes in voice quality, particularly persistent hoarseness, can occur in pleural mesothelioma when tumors affect the vocal cords or the structures in the neck and chest area.
Difficulty Breathing When Lying Down: Known as orthopnea, difficulty breathing while lying down can occur when fluid builds up in the chest or lungs, making it harder to breathe in a horizontal position.
Muscle Weakness: Muscle weakness, or loss of strength, is common in mesothelioma patients due to fatigue, loss of appetite, and the body’s overall response to cancer, making it difficult to perform routine physical tasks.
Clubbing of Fingers: Finger clubbing, or the enlargement and rounding of fingertips with curved nails, is a sign of respiratory issues, including those caused by mesothelioma. It can result from prolonged oxygen deprivation due to lung involvement.
Joint Pain: Pain and discomfort in the joints can occur in mesothelioma patients, particularly if the cancer has spread or if paraneoplastic syndrome, a condition triggered by cancer, affects the joints.
Pericardial Effusion: Fluid buildup around the heart, or pericardial effusion, is a serious symptom of mesothelioma affecting the pericardium. This can lead to chest pain, discomfort, and breathing difficulties as the heart is compressed by the fluid.
Chest Wall Mass: A mass or lump on the chest wall can be a sign of pleural mesothelioma. These masses are typically caused by tumor growth in the chest cavity and can be detected through physical examination or imaging tests.
These symptoms can vary depending on the type and stage of mesothelioma. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these signs and has a history of asbestos exposure, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
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Our Mesothelioma lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means NO MONEY OUT OF POCKET EXPENSES by the asbestos victims or their families. You will find the contingency fees to be among the lowest in the country.
Contact a mesothelioma lawyer today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation. Call 800.291.0963 to find out if you have a valid claim.
FAQs About Mesothelioma Lawsuits
What is asbestos, and why is it dangerous?
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction, industrial, and military applications due to its heat resistance, insulation, and fireproofing properties. However, asbestos becomes hazardous when its microscopic fibers are inhaled into the lungs. Over time, these fibers can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer affecting the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart, and lung cancer. These diseases often take decades to develop, which can make early detection challenging.
What are the risks of asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure is common in industries like construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. People who worked with or around asbestos in construction sites, maintenance facilities, or shipyards are at higher risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. Asbestos-containing materials were commonly used in insulation, pipes, boilers, gaskets, and various equipment. Prolonged exposure to airborne asbestos fibers can result in mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other severe respiratory conditions. Symptoms often don’t appear until many years after exposure, which can lead to delayed diagnoses.
What is mesothelioma, and how does it develop from asbestos exposure?
Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer that develops from the inhalation of asbestos fibers. The fibers become trapped in the lining of the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), or heart (pericardium), causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this leads to the formation of cancerous tumors. Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure, meaning many people are diagnosed decades after their initial contact with asbestos.
How can I tell if I’m experiencing symptoms of asbestos exposure?
If you've been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to recognize early signs of related diseases. Common symptoms of asbestos-related diseases include:
- Persistent or chronic coughing
- Chest pain or tightness
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Unexplained fatigue or weight loss
- Difficulty swallowing
- Wheezing or other breathing difficulties
- Coughing up blood in some cases
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional immediately. Early detection can significantly improve treatment options and outcomes.
What should I do if I’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer?
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure, it’s crucial to:
- Seek legal advice: Consult with an attorney experienced in asbestos litigation to explore your legal options for compensation.
- Document your service records: Keep a record of your time in service, detailing areas where you may have been exposed to asbestos.
- Look into treatment options: Discuss with your doctor about treatments like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, and consider seeking a second opinion if necessary.
- Join a support group: Support groups for veterans and individuals affected by asbestos-related diseases can provide emotional and practical help.
Can individuals exposed to asbestos get compensation?
Yes, people diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer due to asbestos exposure may be eligible for compensation. This compensation can come from asbestos trust funds, workers’ compensation, or personal injury lawsuits. Those affected may receive compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Are there asbestos trust funds available for people diagnosed with Mesothelioma?
Yes, many companies responsible for asbestos exposure have established asbestos trust funds. These funds are available for victims to file claims and receive compensation. An experienced attorney can help guide you through the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure?
Mesothelioma can take 20 to 50 years to develop after initial asbestos exposure. Due to this long latency period, people may not be diagnosed until many years after their exposure. It is essential to remain vigilant about your health and seek medical attention if any symptoms arise, even if the exposure occurred decades ago.
Take Action Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or any asbestos-related disease, do not wait. Consult with a mesothelioma lawyer today to explore your legal options and understand your rights to compensation. Early diagnosis and legal guidance are essential for securing the treatment and financial support you deserve.
Mesothelioma Asbestos Statistics
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma, a rare cancer tied to asbestos exposure, typically affects individuals aged 55-75, often diagnosed decades after their initial contact with this dangerous substance.
Mesothelioma Treatments
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
The three primary treatments for Mesothelioma include surgery to remove tumors, radiation therapy to target cancer cells, and chemotherapy to help shrink and control the disease.
Mesothelioma Symptoms
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
Women and Mesothelioma
Ninety percent of Mesothelioma patients initially report experiencing shortness of breath as their primary symptom, often signaling the presence of this aggressive asbestos-related cancer.
Women and Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Women and Mesothelioma
Women diagnosed with mesothelioma, often due to work-related asbestos exposure, represent a growing percentage of cases, with hundreds diagnosed annually in the U.S.
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
The life expectancy for mesothelioma patients varies but typically ranges from 12 to 21 months after diagnosis, depending on factors like age, health, and stage of cancer at detection.
Asbestos Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Mesothelioma Life Expectancy
Asbestos exposure significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer, as inhaled fibers can cause long-term damage to lung tissues, leading to cancer years after exposure.
Mesothelioma Legal Information
Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Asbestos Trust Fund List
Mesothelioma lawsuits allow victims of asbestos exposure to pursue compensation for medical expenses, lost income, and pain by holding negligent companies accountable.
Asbestos Trust Fund List
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Asbestos Trust Fund List
There are more than 6 Asbestos Trust Funds with $32 Billion Available For qualified claimants.
Find out if you qualify in minutes from an experienced mesothelioma attorney,
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
About 700,000 victims have filed claims for health damages from their asbestos exposure.
Find Out if you Qualify Today!
What Are Eligible Claims?
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Submit a Mesothelioma Claim
Those diagnosed with mesothelioma from asbestos, including workers, military veterans, and secondarily exposed family members, might qualify to file for compensation claims.
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Each State Has a Strict Statute of Limitation For Filing a Claim! Here is a state-by state list of Filing Deadlines
Free Consultation
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
Mesothelioma Filing Deadlines
We provide a free case consultation with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to help you understand your legal options and potentially pursue compensation for asbestos exposure.
Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace
Asbestos in Occupations
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
It is estimated that over 30 million workers in the U.S. have been exposed to asbestos since the 1940s. More than 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the U.S.
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
We provide specialized support for workers in high-risk asbestos exposure jobs, ensuring they receive expert legal assistance to pursue rightful compensation.
Asbestos Products
High Risk Jobs With Exposure
Military Asbestos Exposure
Learn about asbestos-containing products like insulation, floor tiles, roofing materials, and pipe coverings, and how exposure to these items can lead to serious health problems.
Military Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Military Asbestos Exposure
An estimated 25 million U.S. military veterans, especially Navy personnel, were exposed to asbestos in ships and shipyards from the late 1930s to the early 1990s.
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure was common in Navy ships and shipyards, where insulation, gaskets, and pipe coverings contained asbestos, putting countless sailors and shipyard workers at serious health risk.
Asbestos in Jobsites
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Navy Ship Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos was used on many jobsites, especially in construction and industrial work, exposing workers to hazardous fibers in insulation, cement, roofing, and pipe-covering materials.