The people being diagnosed with mesothelioma today had no idea they were being put at risk decades ago: Though asbestos companies were aware of their products’ toxicity, they issued no warnings and did nothing to protect employees or consumers. Though the rare form of cancer can’t be stopped from forming, those with known exposures can help themselves by arranging for regular screening and paying attention to symptoms. A former builder’s recent experience provides an important lesson.
Former Builder Diagnosed With Mesothelioma
The case of Malcolm Ledgar provides an important lesson for anybody at risk of mesothelioma. Knowing that he was at risk from his decades of occupational exposure to the deadly mineral, he began getting regular lung X-rays to confirm they were healthy. But his proactive stance wasn’t enough to make him pay attention to the warning signs he was experiencing. It was only after he was diagnosed with mesothelioma that he realized what his body was trying to tell him.
“It started with a little ache under my right rib, just an annoying ache,” the mesothelioma victim recalled. Once he realized that something was wrong, he requested another X-ray, after which he was immediately sent for a CT scan and further testing that confirmed his diagnosis. He began immunotherapy treatment, but his physicians have informed him that his tumors are covering his right lung.
Mesothelioma Victim Warns Those Who Are at Risk to Pay Attention
Looking back on his experience, Malcolm urges others at risk for mesothelioma to use his story as a cautionary tale, saying, “If you feel any aches years after you’ve taken in dust particles, ask for a check-up and say you feel something is wrong. If you feel any inkling something is wrong, ask for an X-ray – only you know your own body.”
If you’ve been exposed to asbestos, informing your physician of your history and acting quickly at the first warning signs of the disease can make a big difference in your mesothelioma treatment options. If you’ve been diagnosed with the asbestos-related disease, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net can advise you of all your options. Call us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.
