Since 1964, scientists have been trying to determine whether asbestos exposure may be linked to colon cancer. Recent research suggests those who are exposed to large amounts of the substance may be at a higher risk of developing gastrointestinal cancer. Therefore, if you used to hold a job that exposed you to asbestos and you have recently been diagnosed with colon cancer, it’s a good idea to speak to a lawyer.
Our attorneys have decades of combined experience working with asbestos exposure patients, and we are highly educated on the ways this substance can affect the body. We can help you put together a strong claim for compensation. With its dangers known more than a century ago, there’s no excuse for the companies that forced workers to be in proximity to asbestos without protective equipment. Let us help you fight for justice.
Symptoms of Colon Cancer
In the early stages of colon cancer, the patient may not experience symptoms or may have non-specific symptoms such as fatigue and weight loss. However, as the disease progresses, the patient may experience symptoms such as abdominal tenderness, bleeding from the rectum, an abdominal mass that can be felt, liver enlargement, abdominal discomfort (including gas/cramps), a feeling that the bowel has not emptied completely, and fluid buildup in the abdominal cavity. This cancer can develop in patients of any age, but most of its victims are older.
A precursor to colon cancer is polyp formation on the inside of the colon. The growths are non-cancerous and do not cause symptoms. If caught early enough, polyps can be removed before they turn into cancer.
Causes of Colon Cancer
The causes of colon cancer are still under investigation; doctors are not sure what the catalyst for the development of most cases. Asbestos may increase the risk of developing colon cancer according to the CDC. Asbestos ingestion is linked to colon lesions that may become cancerous. Along with asbestos exposure, other toxins like cigarettes and alcohol can also increase someone’s risk of developing colon cancer.
Additionally, colon cancer development is influenced by:
- Age: Most patients are over 50 when they are diagnosed
- Race: Black Americans are more likely to develop colon cancer than those of other races
- Inflammatory Bowel Diseases: Ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease can put a patient at higher risk.
- Genetic Factors: Certain germline (inherited) mutations may predispose a patient to cancer
- Low-Fiber, High-Fat Diet: Researchers have found evidence suggesting diets high in red meat and processed meat can increase the risk of colon cancer.
- Diabetes: Insulin resistance or any type of diabetes can cause an increased risk of colon cancer.
Some people who carry multiple risk factors may never develop colon cancers, while others may get sick despite only having one. However, many cancers develop due to a combination of these factors. If you think asbestos exposure may have predisposed you to colon cancer, reach out to our team to see how we can investigate your disease.
What to Do After a Diagnosis
Treatment Options
Depending on the stage of your treatment and your general health, your doctor can help you determine what treatment plan is right for you. They may suggest:
- Surgery for early-stage colon cancer can be minimally invasive, removing only cancerous polyps.
- Surgery for later-stage colon cancer involves colectomy, ostomy, or lymph node removal.
- Chemotherapy may be used to shrink the cancer so surgery can be done, or it can be used afterward to reduce the chance of cancer recurrence. In some cases, it can be used as a palliative measure.
- Radiation therapy is usually recommended for patients who cannot undergo surgery. It is often combined with chemotherapy.
- Targeted drug therapy uses the abnormalities in cancer cells to identify and attack them. This treatment is usually used for patients with advanced-stage colon cancer.
- Immunotherapy is also a common option for advanced-stage cancer. It can help your immune system attack the cancer cells.
During your treatment process, your doctors may also recommend palliative care to help with the symptoms of cancer and/or treatment. This care tends to improve patients’ quality of life.
Can a Lawyer Help You?
Learning you have colon cancer can disrupt your life. Though it may seem counterintuitive to involve more people in your care right now, reaching out to a lawyer may make things easier for you. Our team can investigate your disease, let you know if and where to file a claim, and even help with issues like access to expensive medical care. Having financial support for cancer is important, especially if you’re forced to quit your job or cut back to part-time work. Don’t ignore your opportunity to receive compensation.
At Shrader & Associates, L.L.P., our team is caring, experienced, and dedicated. We’ve helped thousands of patients file claims after developing asbestos-related diseases. We know how to make the process efficient so you can spend your time on your health and with your family. If you are interested in learning about your legal options, reach out to us for a free, no-obligation consultation today.