Mesotheliomia/Asbestos is a Deadly Killer

Child wearing mask

An unfortunate part of modern life is learning that products once deemed safe and convenient are sometimes proven not to be as the decades pass. Once heavily mined as a strong, fire-resistant material, asbestos fibers were used in manufacturing for hundreds of years, reaching a peak in usage during the 19th and 20th centuries. 

But time would eventually demonstrate a clear connection between asbestos and serious health complications, revealing that asbestos is a deadly carcinogen and no amount of exposure is safe. While asbestos is no longer used in manufacturing, it can still be found all around us. Here’s everything you need to know about this deadly carcinogen. 

Asbestos Causes Mesothelioma

Asbestos causes cancer of the lung lining and other deadly diseases. Asbestos lung disease is called mesothelioma. While rare, the CDC reports that mesothelioma still kills thousands of Americans each year. When it’s you or a loved one that’s affected, the impact of mesothelioma can seem even bigger. 

One of the most common ways to develop mesothelioma is through inhalation of asbestos fibers. Although less common today, asbestos was frequently used during the early part of the 20th century and, as a result, asbestos inhalation is still a risk to anyone who works or lives where asbestos has been used. 

Preventing Asbestos Inhalation

Asbestos risks can be found everywhere, but you can protect yourself and your family from exposure. 

At Work:

Every employer should follow all OSHA regulations for hazardous materials. But take your own precautions and report unsafe working conditions.

  • Inquire at work about any asbestos-related health risks.
  • Wear protective gear when you may disturb asbestos.
  • Leave work clothes at work that may contain asbestos particles.
  • Dispose of asbestos materials according to all government regulations.

At Home:

Asbestos exposure occurs when homeowners do renovations that disturb it. If tackling home improvement projects, watch out for the following: 

  • Materials that contain asbestos include attic insulation, shingles and tar, drywall, and popcorn ceilings.
  • In older homes, don’t perform renovations where asbestos may be present.
  • Never remove asbestos yourself. Get a professional abatement specialist.
  • Exposure may occur when you attempt to tear out contaminated products, especially if you cut, saw, sand or drill them.

In Schools and Public Buildings:

Schools built from 1950 to 1969 frequently contain asbestos because it was a common construction material during this period. If you have concerns about the presence of asbestos in your children’s school, request to see their school management plan. 

Keep an eye out for asbestos-containing materials, including:

  • Damaged drywall or plaster
  • Deteriorated tiles, roofing, or ceiling panels
  • Chipped paint
  • Old heating or A/C 
  • Run-down steam pipes or boiler insulation

Contact a Green Country Mesothelioma Law Firm Today

Have you or a loved one been injured due to asbestos exposure? You need an advocate with decades of mesothelioma law expertise on your side. For more information contact Tim Gilpin at Gilpin Law Office and check out this resource on mesothelioma exposure to learn more.