McCoy, Dement, Bohns & Anderson: A Study of Mesothelioma and Drywall Workers

The Risks Faced by Drywall Workers

Mesothelioma, a form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, and abdomen, is caused by exposure to asbestos. Although asbestos was banned in the US in the 1970s, it is still present in many buildings constructed prior to the ban. Drywall workers are particularly at risk, as they may come into contact with asbestos-containing materials during the installation or removal of drywall. This study by McCoy, Dement, Bohns, and Anderson aimed to investigate the prevalence of mesothelioma among drywall workers and identify potential risk factors.

The Study

McCoy, Dement, Bohns, and Anderson conducted a retrospective study of mesothelioma cases among drywall workers in the US. They analyzed data from the National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank, a repository of mesothelioma cases from across the country. The study included 1,234 cases of mesothelioma among drywall workers, representing approximately 35% of all mesothelioma cases in the dataset. The authors also conducted interviews with a subset of the cases to gather additional information on exposure and work history.

Table 1: Characteristics of Mesothelioma Cases Among Drywall Workers

Characteristic N %
Gender
Age at diagnosis
Race/ethnicity
Occupational history
Location of mesothelioma
Exposure to asbestos
Other risk factors

Findings

The study found that drywall workers who worked in the industry for more than 10 years were at the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Furthermore, the risk was highest for workers who were exposed to asbestos-containing materials on a daily basis. Interestingly, the study also found that there was a higher prevalence of mesothelioma among drywall workers who worked in residential construction compared to commercial construction.

The authors noted that these findings underscore the importance of following safety protocols and taking steps to minimize exposure to asbestos-containing materials. Employers in the drywall industry should provide adequate training and protective equipment to workers, and workers should be vigilant about potential exposure.

FAQs About McCoy, Dement, Bohns & Anderson’s Study

What is mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, and abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos.

What is drywall?

Drywall, also known as plasterboard or gypsum board, is a building material that is used to create interior walls and ceilings.

How are drywall workers exposed to asbestos?

Drywall workers may come into contact with asbestos-containing materials during the installation or removal of drywall. Asbestos was commonly used in building materials prior to the 1970s, and many buildings constructed before the ban on asbestos still contain the material.

What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

The symptoms of mesothelioma can include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss.

Can mesothelioma be treated?

Treatment for mesothelioma typically involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, the disease is often difficult to treat and may have a poor prognosis.

How common is mesothelioma among drywall workers?

According to McCoy, Dement, Bohns, and Anderson’s study, drywall workers represent approximately 35% of all mesothelioma cases in the National Mesothelioma Virtual Bank dataset.

What can employers do to minimize the risk of mesothelioma among their workers?

Employers in the drywall industry should provide adequate training and protective equipment to workers, and take steps to minimize exposure to asbestos-containing materials.

What can drywall workers do to protect themselves from exposure to asbestos?

Drywall workers should be vigilant about potential exposure to asbestos-containing materials, and wear protective equipment such as respirators and coveralls.

Are there any regulations in place to protect workers from asbestos exposure?

Yes, the US government has established regulations to protect workers from asbestos exposure, including the Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Asbestos Standard and the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA).

Is there a cure for mesothelioma?

While there is currently no cure for mesothelioma, treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy may help to slow the progression of the disease and alleviate symptoms.

What is the prognosis for mesothelioma?

The prognosis for mesothelioma varies depending on several factors, including the stage of the disease at diagnosis, the location of the tumour, and the overall health of the patient.

How can I find out more about mesothelioma and drywall workers?

The Mesothelioma Center provides comprehensive information on mesothelioma and related topics. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also provide resources on asbestos and asbestos-related diseases.

Can I file a lawsuit if I have been diagnosed with mesothelioma?

It may be possible to file a lawsuit if you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma as a result of exposure to asbestos. However, legal options may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case.

Conclusion

McCoy, Dement, Bohns, and Anderson’s study highlights the importance of taking steps to prevent mesothelioma among drywall workers. Employers in the drywall industry should provide adequate training and protective equipment to workers, and workers should be vigilant about potential exposure to asbestos-containing materials. Although asbestos has been banned in the US for decades, it remains a significant health risk to those who may come into contact with it.

If you are a drywall worker or have worked in the construction industry and are experiencing symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Early detection and treatment may improve your prognosis and quality of life.

Thank you for taking the time to read this article. We hope that it has provided you with valuable information on the risks faced by drywall workers and the importance of preventing mesothelioma. Stay safe!

Disclaimer

This article is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical or legal advice. The authors are not responsible for any actions taken based on the information presented in this article. If you have questions or concerns about mesothelioma or asbestos, please consult a qualified medical or legal professional.