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Mesothelioma in Waukegan, Illinois

Linda Molinari
Author: Linda Molinari
Jennifer Lucarelli
Last Updated: 3/6/2026

Waukegan, Illinois, was once an industrial hub near Chicago where manufacturers processed and manufactured asbestos materials. Many businesses, such as Johns-Manville, schools and homes may have exposed residents and workers to asbestos. This puts individuals at risk for mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos victims in Waukegan can find local treatment and legal resources below.

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Waukegan, Illinois Mesothelioma Treatment

Waukegan is part of the Chicago Metropolitan Area, giving residents nearby treatment options. There are several mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers in this area where mesothelioma patients can go for care. Mesothelioma is best treated at cancer centers staffed with doctors specializing in the treatment of this rare cancer.

Specialists at these cancer centers evaluate each patient’s diagnosis and health profile to develop the best treatment plan for the individual. Many mesothelioma doctors are also involved with clinical trials. Patients can discuss eligibility for participation in one of these clinical trials with their doctor.

Cancer Centers for Mesothelioma Serving Waukegan, Illinois

Waukegan is located near several notable cancer centers in the Chicago Metropolitan Area. City of Hope Chicago specializes in mesothelioma treatment. City of Hope is known for cancer treatment and has locations around the country. City of Hope uses several types of treatments depending on what a patient requires and would benefit from. Some treatment options offered at the center include immunotherapy, hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) and thoracic surgery.

Rush University Cancer Center is another large cancer center near Waukegan. It is a top-ranked cancer center by U.S. News & World Report. Rush University Cancer Center has a dedicated team of mesothelioma doctors. They may use HIPEC, oxygen therapy and many other therapies to treat mesothelioma cancer patients. This cancer center also runs clinical trials that some mesothelioma patients may be eligible to participate in.

Photo of City of Hope Cancer Center Chicago
City of Hope Cancer Center Chicago
Zion, IL 60099
Photo of RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center
RUSH MD Anderson Cancer Center
Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building
Chicago, IL 60607
Photo of Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University
Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University
Galter Pavilion
Chicago, IL 60611
Photo of The University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center
The University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center
Duchossois Center for Advanced Medicine (DCAM) – Hyde Park
Chicago, IL 60637
Photo of Endeavor Health Cancer Center – Naperville
Endeavor Health Cancer Center – Naperville
Naperville, IL 60540
Photo of UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center
UW Health | Carbone Cancer Center
Madison, WI 53792

Waukegan, Illinois Mesothelioma Doctors

Waukegan asbestos victims should seek care from doctors that specialize in mesothelioma treatment. These doctors use the latest treatment protocols and develop personalized, comprehensive treatment plans for their patients.

Some top cancer centers in the country have established specialized departments staffed with mesothelioma experts. These doctors are dedicated to treating mesothelioma patients using the latest research and treatment methods available. Their goal is to ensure the best treatment outcome for improved prognosis and quality of life for each patient.

Photo of Dr. Michael J. Liptay
Dr. Michael J. Liptay
Cardiothoracic Surgeon
Chicago, IL
Photo of Dr. Helen J. Ross
Dr. Helen J. Ross
Thoracic Medical Oncologist
Chicago, IL
Photo of Dr. Hedy Lee Kindler
Dr. Hedy Lee Kindler
Medical Oncologist & Director, Multidisciplinary Mesothelioma Program
Chicago, IL
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Waukegan, Illinois Mesothelioma Lawsuits

Asbestos victims who develop mesothelioma may be entitled to compensation. Seeking financial assistance can help cover medical bills, travel costs for treatment and provide compensation for lost wages. The two primary ways to receive financial assistance include filing a mesothelioma lawsuit or submitting bankruptcy trust claims. Victims should seek help from a mesothelioma lawyer to determine the best course of action to take.

Finding a Lawyer or Law Firm in Waukegan, Illinois

Asbestos victims should seek the assistance of a mesothelioma law firm experienced in asbestos litigation. Mesothelioma lawyers have the experience and knowledge to help victims and their families file the right type of claim for their circumstances. Lawyers can file lawsuits on a victim’s behalf. Experienced lawyers also have a comprehensive understanding of the applicable laws for filing asbestos lawsuits in Illinois and other states.

Logo for Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney & Meisenkothen
Early, Lucarelli, Sweeney & Meisenkothen has filed mesothelioma claims for hundreds of mesothelioma victims from the state of Illinois.
Logo for The Gori Law Firm
Over 16 years of experience serving asbestos injury victims. The Gori Law Firm is recognized by Super Lawyers®, National Trial Lawyers and the American Society of Legal Advocates (ASLA).
Logo for Vogelzang Law
For over 20 years, Vogelzang Law has handled hundreds of asbestos-related cases, successfully securing millions in verdicts and settlements. Our firm supports every client and their family and fights to win on their behalf.
Logo for Simmons Hanly Conroy
Experienced mesothelioma and asbestos lawyers serving victims nationwide. Recognized by Best Lawyers®, Super Lawyers® and U.S. News & World Report.

Deadlines for Filing Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Waukegan, Illinois

Asbestos victims and their family members may file a personal injury lawsuit or a wrongful death lawsuit. Each state has specific requirements and statutes of limitations for when these lawsuits must be filed. A mesothelioma lawyer will provide patients and their families with information on these requirements.

Statutes of Limitations for Waukegan
Personal Injury

Claims must be filed within 2 years after an asbestos-related diagnosis.

Wrongful Death

Claims must be filed within 2 years after an asbestos-related death.

Asbestos victims may file an asbestos lawsuit or claim against negligent companies responsible for their exposure. A successful lawsuit may result in compensation from a verdict or settlement. Financial compensation may help patients and their loved ones pay for travel expenses and treatment.

Examples of clients served in the Waukegan area:

Client Profile

Age: 70

Occupations: Plant worker, Steel worker

Jobsites Worked at: Johns-Manville (1963 – 1968)

Settlement: ~$2,197,460

Client Profile

Age: 83

Occupations: Navy, Machinist

Jobsites Worked at: Great Lakes Naval Training Station (1967 – 1970)

Settlement: ~$1,811,116

Client Profile

Age: 64

Occupations: Paper mill, Army

Jobsites Worked at: Waukegan Powerhouse (1978 – 1992)

Settlement: ~$1,622,440

Client Profile

Age: 56

Occupations: Plant worker, Household

Jobsites Worked at: JLA & Sons Construction Company (2005 – 2006)

Settlement: ~$1,008,531

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Asbestos Use in Waukegan, Illinois

Waukegan was once home to many manufacturers that worked with materials containing asbestos. Among these companies were Johns-Manville Corporation and Outboard Marine Corporation. Employees may have been exposed to asbestos, putting them at risk for developing mesothelioma. These employees’ loved ones may also have been exposed by secondary exposure. For example, secondary exposure can occur through dust brought home on clothing and other personal effects.

Lake County Mesothelioma Deaths by Gender 1999 – 2020
Gender Number of Deaths
Male 139
Female 41

Asbestos Exposure at Johns-Manville Corporation

Johns-Manville Corporation was one of the biggest manufacturers and distributors of asbestos products and raw asbestos in the country. The company had locations throughout the United States, including Waukegan, Illinois, on the western shore of Lake Michigan. Asbestos products were manufactured at the Waukegan plant from 1928 to 1985. The company closed the Waukegan facility in 1998. However, before it closed, many workers were exposed to hazardous levels of asbestos at this facility. Today, the former Johns-Manville Waukegan plant is named a Superfund site by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Johns-Manville filed for bankruptcy due to the numerous lawsuits filed against the company by individuals who were injured from exposure to its asbestos products. When the company emerged from bankruptcy, it established a trust fund. The fund compensates mesothelioma victims who were injured by the company’s asbestos products. An experienced mesothelioma lawyer can help victims submit a claim to the trust to receive financial compensation.

Waukegan, Illinois Jobsites Where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

  • Allied Chemical and Dye Semet-Solvay Division
  • Chicago North Shore and Milwaukee Railroad
  • ComEd Waukegan Generating Station
  • Goodyear Tire and Rubber
  • Griess-Pfleger Tanning Company
  • Hyde Park Elementary School
  • Johns-Manville Corporation
  • Kalva Corporation
  • Lakehurst Mall
  • Midwest Generation, LLC
  • North Shore Coke & Chemical Company
  • North Shore Electric Company
  • North Shore Gas
  • North Shore Sanitary District
  • NRG Waukegan Generating Station
  • Outboard Marine Corporation
  • Public Service Company of Northern Illinois
  • Schuller International, Inc.
  • Skokie Valley Asphalt Company
  • St Therese Medical Center
  • St. Therese Hospital
  • U.S. Steel
  • Victory Memorial Hospital
  • Warner Sugar Refining Company
  • Washburn and Moen Manufacturing Company
  • Waukegan Township High School
  • Waukegan Water Treatment Plant
  • Wilder Tanning Company
Sources
  1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. About Underlying Cause of Death, 1999-2020. CDC Wonder Online Database.

  2. City of Hope. Mesothelioma.

  3. City of Hope. Mesothelioma symptoms.

  4. Rush University. Mesothelioma.

  5. Rush University. Rush University Cancer Center.

  6. United States Environmental Protection Agency. EPA Sites in the City of Waukegan.

  7. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Fifth Five-Year Review Report for Johns-Manville Corp. Superfund Site Lake County, Illinois. April 2018.

  8. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Johns-Manville Corp. Waukegan, IL Cleanup Activities.

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Linda Molinari, Editor in Chief at Mesothelioma.com
Written by Linda Molinari Editor in Chief
Jennifer Lucarelli
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