Buck Law FirmAn Asbestos Injury Law Firm2026-07-23T16:02:49Zhttps://www.buckfirm.com/feed/atom/WordPress/wp-content/uploads/sites/1302418/2021/11/cropped-Favicon-min-32x32.jpgOn Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[What are the complications of peritoneal mesothelioma?]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=467012026-07-23T16:02:49Z2026-07-23T16:02:49ZPeritoneal mesothelioma is a rare cancer that develops in the lining of the abdomen and is often linked to asbestos exposure in the workplace. As the disease progresses, it can affect multiple organs and lead to serious health complications that require ongoing medical care.
Understanding the potential complications can help patients and their families recognize symptoms early and discuss appropriate treatment options. It can also be important for those considering filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Georgia after a workplace asbestos exposure.
Common complications of peritoneal mesothelioma
The most common peritoneal mesothelioma complications result from tumor growth within the abdominal cavity. One of the earliest issues is persistent abdominal pain, which develops as tumors place pressure on nearby organs and nerves. Many people also experience ascites, a buildup of fluid in the abdomen that can cause swelling, discomfort and difficulty eating. Although the fluid can often be drained, it may return as the disease progresses.Digestive problems are also common. Tumors may interfere with normal bowel function, leading to nausea, constipation, diarrhea, loss of appetite and unintended weight loss. In more advanced cases, a bowel obstruction may occur, preventing food and waste from moving through the intestines. This is a medical emergency that often requires prompt treatment.Treatment for mesothelioma may also cause complications. Chemotherapy can increase the risk of infection by lowering the body's ability to fight illness. Other possible side effects include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores, bruising, and changes in kidney, liver or nerve function. Surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection, blood clots and damage to surrounding tissues, while recovery may be prolonged depending on the extent of the procedure.Beyond the physical effects, many people experience emotional challenges after a mesothelioma diagnosis. Anxiety, depression, stress and feelings of isolation can affect both patients and their loved ones, making emotional support an important part of treatment.Understanding peritoneal mesothelioma complications can help you prepare for the challenges that may arise during treatment. If your diagnosis is related to asbestos exposure in the workplace, seeking legal guidance about filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Georgia may help you understand your rights and the options available to you.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Older workplaces can lead to increased asbestos exposure risks]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466992026-07-16T09:19:16Z2026-07-16T09:19:16ZRenovations can sometimes lead to asbestos exposure
Older buildings may undergo a renovation, which means that the asbestos fibers might be released into the air. This can happen when something is drilled, cut, sanded, demolished, renovated or maintained. Workers can also release asbestos fibers into the air by repairing pipes, removing old flooring or disturbing insulation. The issue with asbestos fibers is that they’re too small to see, so a person can be exposed without knowing.
Asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, which is a fatal lung disease. It can take decades to appear after the asbestos exposure, but it can progress quickly once symptoms appear. Workers who were exposed to asbestos should ensure they get immediate medical attention if they have any signs of mesothelioma, such as shortness of breath, chest pain or persistent cough.
Mesothelioma can physically and financially devastate a victim, so it’s critical that they learn about their legal options. It’s possible to seek compensation for financial damages, but there are time limits in place. Working with a legal professional who understands these cases may be beneficial as a result.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Asbestos claims could force Georgia business into second bankruptcy]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466982026-06-28T03:18:50Z2026-06-28T03:18:50ZCompanies that expose workers or consumers to asbestos may be liable for causing illness. The clear connection between asbestos and mesothelioma, as well as several other types of cancer, has resulted in the judicial system prioritizing the protection of those exposed to asbestos.
Companies that close or file for bankruptcy generally need to account for asbestos-related claims during that process. They often need to fund specialized trusts.Here in Georgia, numerous manufacturers have potentially exposed both their employees and the public to asbestos. For one of those companies, Bestwall, a subsidiary of Georgia-Pacific, asbestos-related claims have forced the company to consider a second Chapter 11 bankruptcy.
Asbestos claims carry high price tags
During a recent hearing, an executive from Bestwall, formerly known as Bestwall Gypsum Company, acknowledged that the parent company, Georgia-Pacific,cannot fully absorb the massive costs associated with successful asbestos litigation.In fact, Bestwall primarily exists as a vehicle to hold asbestos-related liability for the parent company. The company has attempted the so-called “Texas Two-Step,” which involves moving debts to a subsidiary and then having the smaller organization file for bankruptcy relief. The organization has committed more than $1 billion in funds to a trust that provides asbestos compensation.Bestwall previously restructured in a Chapter 11 bankruptcy. The organization now seeks to further restructure and may potentially file a second Chapter 11 bankruptcy, sometimes known as a Chapter 22 bankruptcy. The courts generally take appropriate steps to ensure that even bankruptcy does not eliminate the financial liability of businesses that had workers handle asbestos or exposed consumers to asbestos.Still, the process of seeking compensation can be complex. Working with an attorney can help people pursueGeorgia asbestos claims. Even companies that closed or filed for bankruptcy may have a trust in place for those with asbestos-related illnesses.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Asbestos is an ongoing problem]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466962026-06-17T17:01:49Z2026-06-17T17:01:49ZYou might assume that the chance of developing an asbestos-related cancer is long gone. That’s not the case, however. One example is the risk of contracting it while renovating old buildings, as many still contain asbestos hidden under flooring, in ceiling tiles and behind walls.Another example is the recent product recall of a children’s toy due to concerns over possible asbestos contamination. Knowing how much small children love to put toys in their mouths, the dangers are obvious -- as is the absurdity of how long these products have been allowed on the market.Various industries keep lobbying for asbestos use
Many countries said a definite no to asbestos some time ago, with bans in place in 60 of them. Here in the US, the previous administration moved to strengthen protections by putting a comprehensive ban in place, only for the Environmental Protection Agency to announce in June 2025 that it would revisit the rule because of concerns that the ban might have gone too far. A month later, they decided they would let the ban stand, thankfully.It’s no secret that there is considerable lobbying from certain industry groups who want to continue using asbestos. So it's likely that in years to come we will continue to see people suffering from asbestos-related cancers that should never have occurred. If you discover you have mesothelioma, it is likely due to something that happened in your past, rather than your present, as the symptoms typically take many years to present. With the appropriate legal help, you may still be able to hold those responsible to account.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Can workers expose loved ones to asbestos?]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466922026-06-02T18:27:04Z2026-06-02T18:27:04ZMany people focus on the risk of exposure to asbestos for people who work around it. They may not realize that those individuals can also put their family members at risk of asbestos exposure. This can occur when asbestos fibers are carried from a worksite into a home.
Asbestos fibers are tiny and can attach to a person’s clothing, skin, hair, shoes, tools or vehicle interior. Even if the family member never visits the worksite where the asbestos is located, they may still come into contact with it.
Even careful handling can result in exposure
Many workers are especially careful when they’re working around asbestos, but the tiny fibers can become airborne even if the material is moved only slightly. Once they’re on clothing or other surfaces, they will remain there until they’re moved, which happens if the worker takes their clothing off or gets in or out of the vehicle. Asbestos exposure can lead to mesothelioma, but that disease doesn’t occur right away. It can show up decades after a direct exposure. It can be even longer before a person who has second-hand asbestos exposure experiences symptoms. By the time symptoms of mesothelioma are evident, the disease is usually advanced. Mesothelioma exposure should always be taken seriously. Job sites that have known asbestos have very specific safety standards to follow. If those aren’t followed, the risk of primary exposure increases for the worker, and the risk of secondary exposure increases for their family. Anyone who’s diagnosed with mesothelioma should learn about their options for pursuing compensation. This could enable them to cover the financial damages associated with the condition while they deal with the physical and emotional effects.
]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Could asbestos be lurking behind your renovation project?]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466912026-05-20T14:00:24Z2026-05-20T14:00:24ZTaking on a home renovation project can feel exciting, especially if you enjoy fixing up older properties yourself. However, many DIYers and home flippers do not realize that older drywall, joint compound and popcorn ceilings may contain asbestos. Disturbing these materials during demolition or sanding can release dangerous fibers into the air.
You may think the risk applies only to construction workers, but homeowners and part-time renovators can also be exposed. In Georgia, many homes built before the 1980s still contain asbestos-based materials. Once inhaled, asbestos fibers can remain in the body for years and may later lead to serious illnesses such as mesothelioma and other lung conditions.
Old drywall joint compound: Some older compounds used to seal drywall seams contained asbestos for strength and heat resistance.
Popcorn ceilings: Decorative textured ceilings installed decades ago often consisted of asbestos materials.
Dust from sanding or demolition: Even a small renovation project can release invisible fibers into the air.
Poor indoor ventilation: Working in enclosed spaces may increase the amount of asbestos dust you inhale.
Improper cleanup methods: Sweeping or vacuuming without proper equipment may spread fibers throughout the home.
Because mesothelioma symptoms may take decades to appear, many people do not connect their illness to an old renovation project. That delay can make the situation even more difficult for families trying to understand where the exposure happened.If you believe you were exposed to asbestos while renovating or flipping a home in Georgia, it can help to learn more about your legal options and possible sources of exposure. Guidance from someone familiar with asbestos-related claims may help you better understand the next steps while protecting your health and future.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[How long after asbestos exposure does mesothelioma develop?]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466902026-05-02T12:20:42Z2026-05-02T12:20:42ZWorkers may retire before they fall ill
Mesothelioma is notorious for having a low five-year survival rate. Many people might believe that because of how devastating mesothelioma can be, it forms rapidly after asbestos exposure.
However, mesothelioma actually develops relatively slowly in the early stages of illness. Many people with mesothelioma get diagnosed 20 years, 30 years or even longer after their workplace exposure. Then, their cancer may progress relatively rapidly after their diagnosis.
Professionals who handled asbestos in the workplace, even if they have since changed jobs, may need to inform their primary care physician of that previous environmental exposure to ensure they receive appropriate diagnostic consideration. Early diagnosis can make a major impact on a patient's prognosis and may expand the treatment options available to them.
Even if a worker exposed to asbestos has already retired, they may be eligible for compensation from an asbestos trust or a claim against their former employer. Reviewing a diagnosis with an attorney who specifically handles mesothelioma and asbestos-related illnesses in Georgia can help people pursue the compensation they need to cover their care costs.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[How renovation and demolition workers are exposed to asbestos]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466892026-04-17T17:49:22Z2026-04-17T17:49:22ZThe remodeling industry in Georgia employs thousands of people. Construction workers are taking on renovation and demolition projects, as there is an increase in projects for modernizing older homes. While this increased demand is financially beneficial, it poses a risk to workers.
One of the major risks is exposure to asbestos. Many buildings built before 1980 have asbestos-containing materials. Here is how renovation and demolition workers can be exposed to asbestos when working in such houses:
Disturbing materials
Generally, asbestos does not affect the people living in an older home, as the building materials are intact. However, when a material is damaged, asbestos fibers will be released into the air. For instance, when a material is crumbled or reduced to powder by hand pressure when dry (friable material), such as sprayed-on fireproofing or ceiling tiles. Or when a material is damaged, cut or sanded, releasing asbestos fibers (non-friable material). For example, when drilling through old drywall, cutting tiles, sanding flooring, sawing cement sheets, driving a nail directly into a material or breaking cement boards.
Can the exposure be prevented?
Employers should have buildings inspected by a certified professional before a project starts. If a building contains asbestos-containing materials and the renovation work will disturb it significantly, the operator should notify the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD) before work begins. This way, the agency can ensure safe removal methods are communicated and observed to protect workers and the community. Employers also need to observe the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) regulations and internal workplace safety practices.Unfortunately, not all employers follow the required procedures to protect workers. If you were exposed to asbestos while working on a project, get more information on how to fight for your rights. ]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Georgia’s manufacturing industry sometimes causes worker mesothelioma]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466882026-04-02T14:48:02Z2026-04-02T14:48:02Znumerous industrial facilities operated by large, successful companies that employ thousands of blue-collar workers.
Most of these organizations are fastidious in their adherence to environmental protection and worker safety regulations. Unfortunately, some of them, including companies that may no longer have current operations within the state, may have violated safety standards in a manner that unnecessarily endangered their workers.
Professionals working at companies that make vehicle components, chemicals and home-building materials are among those who may theoretically be at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Asbestos use was once widespread
Asbestos is a known human carcinogen with connections to mesothelioma, lung cancer and reproductive cancers. The carcinogenic properties of asbestos are so strong that many successful industries have now phased out reliance on asbestos to ensure compliance with increasingly strict regulations.
However, decades ago, safety standards were not as strict. Workers may have handled asbestos or asbestos-containing materials without respirators and other safety equipment. They may not have had access to on-site sanitation facilities to ensure they did not carry asbestos home with them.
Decades later, those professionals and their family members could face mesothelioma and its devastating medical consequences. Mesothelioma takes a long time to develop, but once it does, it can become a catastrophic medical issue within a few years.
Blue-collar employees across Georgia may be able to file lawsuits or claims for compensation against asbestos trusts created by dissolved or bankrupt employers to cover their expenses. Reviewing a diagnosis and work history with a mesothelioma attorney can help workers understand their options.]]>On Behalf of Buck Law Firm<![CDATA[Common treatment approaches for mesothelioma]]>https://www.buckfirm.com/?p=466872026-03-20T15:12:46Z2026-03-20T15:12:46ZAggressive treatment may be necessary
Unfortunately, there is no acknowledged cure for mesothelioma. Treatment options can help control symptoms and slow the progression of mesothelioma. Most patients undergo surgeries to remove as much of the cancer as possible, followed by chemotherapy.
Immunotherapy drugs can be a viable option as well, with some of the newest drugs showing promise in helping the body despite the mesothelioma. Some cutting-edge treatments seem to offer a better long-term prognosis than traditional cancer treatments. The combination of immunotherapy treatment with surgical removal of cancerous tissue shows promise in certain cases.
Getting access to cutting-edge care can be a challenge for those already dealing with debilitating medical symptoms. People seeking compensation for prior asbestos exposure may need help understanding their options and holding the right parties accountable for their illness.
An attorney familiar with mesothelioma lawsuits and asbestos-related litigation can help those dealing with a recent diagnosis identify their options. There may be a trust with resources to support sickened professionals. Other times, a lawsuit against a former employer or a business with unsafe practices might be necessary. Consulting with an attorney can help those impacted by mesothelioma understand their options.]]>