The Impact of Mesothelioma on Society
Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, heart, and abdomen. Every year, approximately 3,000 people in the US are diagnosed with this life-threatening disease. Mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was widely used in construction and manufacturing industries in the US until the 1980s. Although asbestos is no longer used in the US, the legacy of its widespread use continues to have devastating effects for those who have been exposed to it.
The Hidden Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos is a highly toxic substance that can cause serious health problems when its fibers are inhaled or ingested. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs and cause inflammation and scarring, which can lead to respiratory problems and cancer. Similarly, when asbestos fibers are ingested, they can cause damage to the digestive system and lead to cancer of the abdominal lining.
Where is Asbestos Found?
Asbestos can be found in a variety of products that were commonly used in construction and manufacturing industries, including insulation, roofing materials, flooring, and cement. Even today, asbestos is still used in some products, such as automobile brake pads and clutches. This means that people who work in certain industries, such as construction, automotive repair, and manufacturing, are at a higher risk of exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos Exposure in the Workplace
The majority of asbestos exposure occurs in the workplace, where workers are exposed to asbestos fibers on a daily basis. This is because many workers are not provided with adequate protective equipment or training on how to safely handle asbestos. As a result, many workers develop mesothelioma years after their initial exposure to asbestos, often when they are retired and no longer working in the industry that exposed them to the toxin.
Asbestos Exposure in the Home
Asbestos can also be found in homes and other buildings that were constructed before the 1980s. Asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation and flooring, can release fibers into the air when they are disturbed, such as during a renovation or repair. This means that homeowners and other individuals who work on older buildings may also be exposed to asbestos.
Who is at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?
Although everyone is at some risk of developing mesothelioma if they are exposed to asbestos, there are some people who are at a higher risk than others. These include:
| Group | Risk Level |
|---|---|
| Construction Workers | High |
| Automotive Workers | High |
| Industrial Workers | High |
| Military Veterans | High |
| Family Members of Workers | Medium |
| Homeowners and DIYers | Low/Medium |
Construction Workers
Construction workers are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma because asbestos was commonly used in the construction industry until the 1980s. Workers who install or remove insulation, roofing, flooring, or cement are at a particularly high risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.
Automotive Workers
Automotive workers are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma because asbestos was commonly used in brake pads and clutches until the 1990s. Workers who repair or replace brakes or clutches are at a particularly high risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.
Industrial Workers
Industrial workers, such as those who work in power plants, factories, and shipyards, are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma because asbestos was commonly used in these industries until the 1980s. Workers who handle insulation, boilers, pipes, or gaskets are at a particularly high risk of exposure to asbestos fibers.
Military Veterans
Military veterans are at a high risk of developing mesothelioma because asbestos was widely used in military ships and buildings until the 1980s. Navy veterans are at a particularly high risk of exposure to asbestos fibers because they were often exposed to asbestos while working on ships.
Family Members of Workers
Family members of workers who were exposed to asbestos in the workplace may also be at risk of developing mesothelioma. This is because asbestos fibers can be brought home on the worker’s clothing, hair, or skin and then be inhaled or ingested by family members.
Homeowners and DIYers
Homeowners and DIYers who work on older buildings may be at a low to medium risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. This is because asbestos-containing materials may be present in the building and can release fibers into the air when they are disturbed during renovation or repair.
FAQs About Mesothelioma
What are the symptoms of mesothelioma?
The symptoms of mesothelioma can vary depending on the location of the cancer, but commonly include chest pain, shortness of breath, coughing, fatigue, and weight loss.
How is mesothelioma diagnosed?
Mesothelioma is diagnosed using a combination of imaging tests, such as x-rays and CT scans, and biopsy tests that examine tissue samples for the presence of cancer cells.
Can mesothelioma be cured?
There is currently no cure for mesothelioma, but treatment options such as surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy can help manage the symptoms of the disease and improve quality of life.
How long does it take for mesothelioma to develop?
Mesothelioma can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. This long latency period makes it difficult to diagnose and treat the disease.
Can I develop mesothelioma if I have only been exposed to asbestos once?
Yes, even a single exposure to asbestos fibers can increase your risk of developing mesothelioma. However, the risk is lower than for those who have been exposed to asbestos on a regular basis.
Is there a cure for asbestos exposure?
There is no cure for asbestos exposure, but it is important to avoid further exposure to asbestos and to seek medical treatment if you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma.
What should I do if I have been exposed to asbestos?
If you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to monitor your health and report any symptoms of mesothelioma to your doctor. You should also avoid further exposure to asbestos and seek legal advice if you believe that your exposure was due to the negligence of an employer or manufacturer.
Is there a law that regulates the use of asbestos in the US?
Yes, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the use of asbestos in the US through the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) and the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA). These laws regulate the manufacture, importation, processing, and distribution of asbestos-containing products.
Are there any alternatives to asbestos?
Yes, there are many alternatives to asbestos that are safer and more environmentally friendly. These include cellulose fibers, fiberglass, and ceramic fibers.
How can I protect myself from asbestos exposure?
To protect yourself from asbestos exposure, it is important to wear protective clothing and equipment when working with asbestos-containing materials. You should also follow proper safety procedures, such as wetting down the asbestos-containing material before removing it, to minimize the release of fibers into the air.
Can I sell a home that contains asbestos?
Yes, you can sell a home that contains asbestos, but you will need to disclose the presence of asbestos to potential buyers. It is also important to note that removing asbestos from a home can be expensive and may require the services of a licensed asbestos abatement contractor.
What is the statute of limitations for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit?
The statute of limitati
ons for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit varies by state, but is generally between 1 and 4 years from the date of diagnosis or discovery of the disease. It is important to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible if you are considering filing a lawsuit.
How can I find a mesothelioma lawyer?
You can find a mesothelioma lawyer by contacting a law firm that specializes in mesothelioma cases, or by searching online for mesothelioma lawyers in your area. It is important to choose a lawyer with experience in mesothelioma cases to ensure that you receive the best possible representation.
Conclusion: Take Action to Protect Yourself from Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a serious and deadly disease that can be caused by exposure to asbestos. If you believe that you have been exposed to asbestos, it is important to monitor your health and seek medical treatment if you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma. You should also take steps to protect yourself from further exposure to asbestos, such as wearing protective clothing and following proper safety procedures when working with asbestos-containing materials. By taking these steps, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from the devastating effects of mesothelioma.
Closing Disclaimer
The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any questions or concerns about mesothelioma or asbestos exposure, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider or mesothelioma lawyer.
