Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly form of cancer that is almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a natural mineral that was once widely used in construction and manufacturing due to its fire and heat-resistant properties. The relationship between mesothelioma and asbestos exposure has been known since the early 1900s, but it was not until the 1960s that serious efforts were made to regulate and eventually ban asbestos use.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that develops in the lining that surrounds the organs in the body. Most commonly, mesothelioma affects the lungs (pleural mesothelioma) or the abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma). There is also a rare form of mesothelioma that affects the lining of the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).
Symptoms of mesothelioma vary depending on the location of the cancer, but they can include chest pain, shortness of breath, cough, fatigue, weight loss, abdominal pain, and swelling. Unfortunately, by the time most people are diagnosed with mesothelioma, the cancer has already spread to other parts of the body, making it difficult to treat.
Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos is a mineral that was once widely used in the construction and manufacturing industries due to its heat and fire-resistant properties. It was used in everything from insulation and roofing materials to automotive brake pads and textiles.
When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can become lodged in the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, which can lead to mesothelioma.
It is important to note that not everyone who is exposed to asbestos will develop mesothelioma. There are a number of factors that can influence an individual’s risk, including the amount of exposure, the duration of exposure, and the individual’s genetic makeup.
The Risks of Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos exposure is a serious public health issue. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), approximately 125 million people worldwide are exposed to asbestos in the workplace. Asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, are responsible for an estimated 107,000 deaths each year.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that between 1999 and 2017, there were over 45,000 deaths in the United States due to mesothelioma. The majority of these deaths were men over the age of 85. This is because mesothelioma can take decades to develop after exposure to asbestos.
Asbestos was not always regulated in the United States. It was only in the 1970s that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) began to regulate the use of asbestos. Today, the use of asbestos is heavily restricted in the United States, but it is not fully banned.
Potential for Future Exposure
Despite these efforts to regulate asbestos, there is still a potential for future exposure. Asbestos can still be found in older buildings, homes, and products. Asbestos-containing materials may be disturbed during renovation or demolition work, releasing asbestos fibers into the air. Asbestos can also be found in some common household products, such as talcum powder, which may have been contaminated with asbestos-containing minerals.
In recent years, there have been a number of high-profile lawsuits against companies that exposed workers and consumers to asbestos. In 2018, a California jury awarded $29 million to a man who developed mesothelioma after using talcum powder that was contaminated with asbestos. In 2019, Johnson & Johnson announced that it had stopped selling talc-based baby powder in the United States and Canada due to declining sales and ongoing litigation over potential asbestos contamination.
Government Resources
The United States government offers a number of resources for individuals who have been exposed to asbestos or who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma. The Veterans Affairs (VA) offers benefits to veterans who were exposed to asbestos during their service. The EPA provides information on asbestos exposure and regulations. The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) offers resources for workers who may be exposed to asbestos.
In addition, there are a number of organizations that provide support for individuals and families affected by mesothelioma. The Mesothelioma Applied Research Foundation is a nonprofit organization that funds research into mesothelioma and provides support for patients and their families. The Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization is a nonprofit organization that works to raise awareness about the dangers of asbestos and advocates for a complete ban on asbestos use.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer that is exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos. While efforts have been made to regulate and eventually ban the use of asbestos in the United States, there is still a potential for exposure, particularly in older buildings and products. The risks of asbestos exposure are serious and can lead to a lifetime of health problems. It is important for individuals who may have been exposed to asbestos to seek medical attention and to seek out resources and support.
What is Mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is an infrequent type of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs as well as the heart abdomen and other organs. Mesothelioma often derives from prolific exposure to asbestos. The average life expectancy for this cancer is 12-18 months. 75% of Mesothelioma is called Pleural Mesothelioma and involves the lining of the lungs. Asbestos related mesothelioma is cause when asbestos fibers are torn and become airborne, thereby entering the lungs.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest pain, dry cough, harsh breathing sounds, and reduced chest expansion. If exhibit these symptoms it is important to meet with your physician immediately. Although the life expectancy is low for those diagnosed with mesothelioma, if treated quickly and properly the life expectancy can increase to levels around 30%
What is Asbestos?
Asbestos refers to a group of minerals that occur naturally in the environment that are resistant to heat, fire and chemicals. In the past they were a frequently used material used in industry, especially the building and construction industries. Ceiling and floor tiles, paint, adhesives and plastics all contained excessive amounts of asbestos at some point in time.
What are the symptoms of Asbestos exposure?
The four most common diseases resulting from extensive asbestos exposure are:
· Malignant Mesothelioma – a rare cancer that affects the abdomen and chest
· Lung Cancer – Cancer of the lung.
· Asbestosis – non-malignant disease that causes scarring in lung tissue
· Asbestos Pleural Disease – a disease that causes scarring of the lining of the lung and chest.
WHAT DO I DO IF I FEEL I HAVE BEEN EXPOSED?
If you or someone you know has been exposed to asbestos it is imperative that you first see your physician. If it is likely that your physical impairment was the result of asbestos exposure contact an experience attorney immediately. Because the statute of limitations for tort claims is set by the State at a specific time frame the clock is ticking from the time of exposure. Because the affects of asbestos exposure are latent the awareness of a lawsuit may not be present until later when your statute of limitation is about to extinguish your rights.
