What is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a term that refers to a group of fibrous minerals, which are widely used for their durability, strength and heat-/fire-resistant properties. Despite the many uses of asbestos, the fibers are known to cause several serious illnesses including a rare and deadly type of cancer known as mesothelioma.
How Asbestos Causes Health Problems
The microscopic fibers of which asbestos is composed may become airborne when asbestos-containing products are damaged or disturbed. Once airborne, the fibers may be inhaled by individuals in the vicinity. The fibers may become lodged in the lungs and/or other organs, and a buildup of asbestos fibers over time can lead to the development of serious illnesses such as:
Asbestosis – a respiratory disorder characterized by scarring of the lung tissue and the primary symptom of which is shortness of breath.
Mesothelioma – a rare form of cancer almost exclusively caused by prolonged or heavy exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma can begin in the lungs, the abdominal cavity or the heart and then spread to other areas of the body.
Lung cancer – asbestos exposure can also lead to this more common type of cancer.
In addition, some evidence has shown a link between asbestos exposure and cancers of the esophagus, throat, kidneys, gallbladder, intestines and colon.
Asbestos Exposure
Asbestos occurs naturally and is present at very low levels in the environment. It only becomes dangerous at high levels or after lengthy exposure.
Before the use of asbestos was regulated in the United States, it was used in a wide range of products and industries. Some frequently used products that may contain asbestos include building insulation, vinyl flooring, brake shores, caulk, certain textiles, cement, roofing and ceiling tiles just to name a few. It is more likely for an individual to suffer prolonged asbestos exposure in a work setting, and high risk occupations include:
- Construction and building work
- Shipbuilding
- Auto mechanics (particularly brake repair)
- Demolition work
- Drywalling
- Firefighting
- Textiles
The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) now regulates asbestos in the workplace, and there are measures workers can take to reduce their risk of exposure.
Symptoms of Asbestos-Related Diseases
Asbestos-related illnesses often take decades for symptoms to appear, and depending on the condition, symptoms may include breathing difficulties, coughing, hoarseness, chest pain, weight loss, loss of appetite and fatigue. Those who have a history of asbestos exposure and develop any of these or other symptoms should seek medical advice as soon as possible.
Legal Help for Asbestos Exposure
Contact the law firm of Burke & Eisner today if you or someone you love has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease such as mesothelioma. You may be entitled to compensation for your medical costs and other damages. Let us tell you more about your legal options during a free claim evaluation.
Three ways to Contact Us:
-- Fill out the Contact Us form in the Upper Right part of this page.
-- Use the Contact Us form located on the Instant Answer Page
-- Call us: 1-800-838-0800
See Also:
* Personal Injury
* What is Mesothelioma?
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