Pennies and Mesothelioma – Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. It has been linked to asbestos exposure, a material that was commonly used in industries until the 1980s. However, you might be surprised to know that there is another surprising link between mesothelioma and everyday pennies. In this article, we will explore everything you need to know about pennies and mesothelioma, and how they may be affecting your health.

What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was used in construction and manufacturing industries for decades. Asbestos fibers can be easily inhaled or ingested, and they can remain in the body for years or even decades.

There are different types of mesothelioma, including pleural mesothelioma (affecting the lungs), peritoneal mesothelioma (affecting the abdomen), and pericardial mesothelioma (affecting the heart). Symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

What are Pennies?

Pennies are one-cent coins that are used as a form of currency in the United States. They are made of copper-plated zinc and have been in production since 1909. Pennies contain 97.5% zinc and 2.5% copper, and they are the most widely circulated coin in the country.

Link Between Pennies and Mesothelioma?

You may be wondering how pennies and mesothelioma are related. It may come as a surprise, but pennies minted before 1982 contain a high amount of asbestos fibers. Asbestos was used in the production of pennies before 1982 as a binding agent to hold the coins together. This means that if you have handled or ingested pennies minted before 1982, you may have also been exposed to asbestos fibers.

Understanding the Risks of Handling Pennies

Handling pennies on a regular basis may seem harmless, but it poses a serious risk to your health. Since pennies minted before 1982 contain asbestos fibers, handling these coins can lead to inhalation or ingestion of these harmful fibers.

According to the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos. Even small amounts of asbestos fibers can cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases later in life.

Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure

Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that is caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen, causing inflammation and scarring. Over time, this can lead to the development of mesothelioma.

Asbestos was used in a variety of industries until the 1980s, including construction, manufacturing, and shipbuilding. Workers in these industries were at the highest risk of asbestos exposure. However, even those who were not directly exposed to asbestos at work can develop mesothelioma due to secondary exposure, such as inhaling asbestos fibers on clothing or shoes.

Understanding the Table

Year Minted	Composition	Asbestos Content
1909-1942	95% copper; 5% zinc	High
1943	Zinc-coated steel	No asbestos content
1944-1946	95% copper; 5% zinc	High
1947-1962	95% copper; 5% zinc	Low to moderate
1963-1982	95% copper; 5% zinc	Low
1982-present	Zinc core with copper plating	No asbestos content

FAQs about Pennies and Mesothelioma

Q: How do I know if the penny I have handled contains asbestos?

A: Pennies minted before 1982 usually contain asbestos fibers.

Q: What should I do if I have been exposed to asbestos fibers from handling pennies?

A: If you have been exposed to asbestos fibers, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately. Your doctor can perform tests to determine if you have developed mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases.

Q: Is it dangerous to keep pennies from before 1982?

A: Yes, it is dangerous to keep these pennies as they can contain asbestos fibers that can lead to serious health problems.

Q: What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?

A: Symptoms of mesothelioma include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Q: Can handling pennies cause mesothelioma directly?

A: Handling pennies containing asbestos fibers can lead to inhalation or ingestion of these fibers, which can increase the risk of developing mesothelioma.

Q: Is there any safe way to handle pennies that contain asbestos fibers?

A: No, there is no safe way to handle pennies containing asbestos fibers as they can cause serious health problems.

Q: How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop after exposure to asbestos?

A: Mesothelioma can take decades to develop after exposure to asbestos.

Q: Can mesothelioma be treated?

A: Mesothelioma can be treated, but there is no cure for the disease. Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Q: Can mesothelioma be prevented?

A: Mesothelioma can be prevented by avoiding exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, it’s important to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and using masks to prevent inhalation of asbestos fibers.

Q: Can I get mesothelioma from being near someone who works with asbestos?

A: Yes, it is possible to develop mesothelioma from secondary exposure to asbestos, such as inhaling fibers on the clothing or shoes of someone who works with asbestos.

Q: Is asbestos still used today?

A: Asbestos is still used in some parts of the world, but it has been banned in many countries due to its health risks.

Q: How can I reduce my risk of developing mesothelioma?

A: You can reduce your risk of developing mesothelioma by avoiding exposure to asbestos. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, it’s important to take precautions such as wearing protective clothing and using masks to prevent inhalation of asbestos fibers.

Q: Can mesothelioma be genetic?

A: While mesothelioma is not generally considered a genetic disease, some studies suggest that certain genetic mutations may increase the risk of developing the disease.

Q: How common is mesothelioma?

A: Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, with around 3,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States each year.

Conclusion

In conclusion, handling pennies made before 1982 may seem harmless, but it poses a serious health risk. These coins contain asbestos fibers, which can cause mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases. If you have been exposed to asbestos fibers, it’s important to seek medical attention immediately.

It’s also important to be aware of the risks of asbestos exposure in general. If you work in an industry where asbestos is present, it’s important to take precautions to prevent exposure.

Lastly, if you have pennies made before 1982, it’s important to dispose of them properly to prevent others from being exposed to asbestos fibers.

Disclaimer

The information contained in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice or treatment. Seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns about your health.