Today, August 1, marks World Lung Cancer Day! Can you believe that, in 2016, over 224,000 new cases of lung cancer are expected to be diagnosed? On top of the new diagnoses, about 158,000 individuals will die from lung cancer during this year alone (Source: Cancer.org).
Lung cancer is the second most common cancer (excluding skin cancer) in United States men and women. While many people believe that lung cancer is only caused by smoking tobacco products, asbestos is also a culprit known to cause the devastating disease.
In the case of an asbestos-caused lung cancer victim, it is likely that asbestos fibers have been trapped in their trachea, bronchioles (small branches of the bronchi), or alveoli (lung air sacs). Over time, the trapped fibers can cause scarring, inflammation, and, eventually, abnormal cell growth. Symptoms can remain latent for years or decades, often making lung cancer a deadly diagnosis for asbestos exposure victims. Find out more about asbestos lung cancer on AsbestosNetwork.com.
No matter how lung cancer develops in an individual, today is the day to honor their struggle and their strength. Here at Brayton Purcell LLP, we celebrate and serve lung cancer victims, survivors, and their loved ones every day. If you have been affected by lung cancer, please share your story with us in a comment below. Together we can spread awareness about this disease and provide support to those dealing with it.
Call us today if you have been diagnosed with lung cancer due to asbestos exposure or tobacco use.