As November unfolds, the autumn chill descends upon Buffalo, and the leaves paint a picturesque tapestry of orange and gold across our city. It’s a time when we gather with loved ones, reflect on our blessings, and prepare for the holiday season. However, November is also a month of significance in the realm of health awareness.
It’s Lung Cancer Awareness Month, a time when we take a closer look at a disease that affects thousands of lives every year. As Buffalo attorneys specializing in mesothelioma and asbestos lung cancer cases, we understand the importance of raising awareness about lung cancer, especially when it’s tied to asbestos exposure.
Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer: The Connection
Buffalo, a city rich in industrial history, is no stranger to the devastating impact of asbestos exposure. The shipyards, steel mills, and chemical plants that once thrived here played a significant role in the high rates of mesothelioma and lung cancer in the region.
Bethlehem Steel: For much of the 20th century, Bethlehem Steel was a powerhouse in Buffalo, employing thousands of workers. The shipyards and factories used asbestos extensively in their operations. Many employees and their families were unknowingly exposed to this carcinogen, leading to numerous mesothelioma and lung cancer cases.
Hooker Chemical: Hooker Chemical, now Occidental Chemical Corporation, was another major player in Buffalo’s industrial landscape. Their use of asbestos in various processes, including the production of chemicals and plastics, has had long-lasting health consequences for workers and the surrounding community.
Niagara Falls: A short drive from Buffalo, Niagara Falls also bears the scars of asbestos-related issues. The Love Canal disaster in the 1970s brought to light the environmental consequences of toxic waste disposal, including asbestos-containing materials. This event not only contaminated the soil but also left a legacy of health issues, including a higher incidence of mesothelioma and lung cancer among those living in the vicinity.
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The Importance of Awareness
Awareness is crucial when it comes to lung cancer and mesothelioma, especially because early detection can significantly improve a patient’s prognosis. Many people who have been exposed to asbestos may not even be aware of the potential risks they face. This makes it even more important to spread the word. We must educate the public, raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos, and encourage individuals who may have been exposed to seek medical evaluation.
Interested in finding out if you fit the criteria and are eligible for advanced lung cancer screenings? In general, the United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends adults aged 50 to 80 years old who have a 20 pack-year smoking history and currently smoke or have quit in the past 15 years get tested. There are also online tests that will convey eligibility. Most screening is covered by insurance.
Promoting Safety
As mesothelioma lawyers in Buffalo, we’ve had the privilege of representing mesothelioma patients and their families in legal battles against those responsible for their asbestos exposure. We also represent people with lung cancer caused by asbestos exposure, even if you’ve smoked. Mesothelioma and lung cancer are two distinct forms of cancer, although they are often thought to be one in the same.
Our legal system holds companies accountable for failing to protect their employees and customers from asbestos exposure. This accountability is essential in promoting safety in the workplace and beyond. Local businesses and industries must ensure they’re asbestos-free and compliant with safety regulations. Regular inspections, asbestos removal, and providing protective equipment to employees are crucial steps to prevent asbestos-related illnesses.
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Support and Resources
Buffalo is a city with a strong sense of community. That spirit extends to those battling lung cancer and mesothelioma. There are numerous support groups, advocacy organizations, and healthcare facilities that provide guidance and resources for patients and their families. It’s essential for those affected to know they’re not alone and that there are networks available to help them navigate their journey.
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Conclusion
As we observe Lung Cancer Awareness Month this November, let’s remember awareness can save lives. Whether you or a loved one have been exposed to asbestos or are simply looking to promote lung health, knowledge is your most potent weapon. Together, we can work toward a future where lung cancer and mesothelioma are rare and preventable diseases. In Buffalo, we stand as a community united in the fight against these devastating illnesses, and we look forward to a healthier, asbestos-free future.
If you or a loved one have been affected by mesothelioma or lung cancer and require legal assistance, please contact us. We’re here to help and support you on your journey towards justice.
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