Mesothelioma deaths in the U.S. surged by 20% between 1990 and 2019, according to BMC Public Health. This increase is tied directly to decades of asbestos exposure, especially among workers in construction, shipbuilding, military service, and manufacturing.
The rise in cases is particularly alarming in Hawai‘i, where thousands of veterans have been exposed to asbestos while working on Navy ships, submarines and maintenance facilities at the Pearl Harbor Naval Shipyard since World War II. The state health department reported over 700 asbestos-related deaths between 1999 and 2017, including 139 from mesothelioma.
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Many buildings in Hawai‘i, particularly those built before 1980, also contain asbestos. Despite some removal efforts, the material remains a risk, particularly due to Hawai‘i’s humid climate and salty air, which can speed up asbestos degradation. Asbestos deterioration can release airborne fibers that, when inhaled, can cause mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis, often manifesting years later.
The 2023 Maui wildfires further exacerbated the situation. In the aftermath, the Hawai‘i Department of Health warned that ash and dust from burned buildings might contain toxic chemicals such as asbestos, arsenic, and lead. Health officials and experts have urged residents and cleanup workers to wear protective gear, such as N95 masks, to reduce exposure to harmful substances. This warning remains in effect, highlighting the ongoing public health threat.
What Is Mesothelioma, and Why Is It So Dangerous?
Mesothelioma is a rare but aggressive cancer caused exclusively by asbestos exposure. According to the Mayo Clinic, it affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart and can take decades to develop, making it especially challenging to diagnose early.
Types of Mesothelioma:
- Pleural Mesothelioma – The most common type, affecting the lungs
• Peritoneal Mesothelioma – Affects the abdomen.
• Pericardial Mesothelioma – The rarest form, affecting the heart.
Common Symptoms of Mesothelioma include, but are not limited to:
- Shortness of breath
• Chest pain and fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss
Unfortunately, this cancer is often diagnosed in its late stages, leaving patients with limited treatment options and a poor prognosis.
Why Legal Action Matters for Mesothelioma Victims
Many mesothelioma victims and their families are unaware of their legal rights or the potential for compensation. Filing a legal claim allows victims to pursue financial compensation for their medical treatment, long-term care costs, and lost wages while holding companies accountable for their negligence. Additionally, families of deceased victims may be eligible for death benefits to help cover funeral expenses and support their financial well-being after losing a loved one. While compensation cannot reverse the disease, it can help alleviate the financial burden.
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure in Hawai‘i
Seek justice with the help of our experienced Hawai‘i asbestos attorneys. Our mesothelioma law firm has represented Hawai‘i residents like you affected by asbestos exposure for over 40 years, aggressively fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.
