Asbestos is a naturally occurring material that has been used over the years in a variety of industries. While asbestos is versatile and fire resistant, exposure is highly toxic.
How Asbestos Causes Mesothelioma
Handling asbestos releases tiny fibers into the air. Unfortunately, these are easily inhaled, where they can embed into the lungs. Over time, the fibers cause inflammation and scarring.
There is no known way to reverse the damage caused by asbestos. The latency period post exposure is very long – sometimes running into the decades. In other words, it’s possible for a person to develop mesothelioma many years after they’ve been exposed.
Mesothelioma is a very rare and aggressive cancer that’s almost exclusively connected to asbestos exposure. This connection makes it easier for victims to prove that their illness was caused by an unsafe work environment.
Industries at Risk
Millions of workers have been exposed over the years. Certain industries are more at risk, including:
- Shipbuilding
- Factory workers
- Firefighting
- Military
- Electricians
- Auto mechanics
- Construction
- Railroad workers
It’s important to note that the United States does regulate asbestos now, but they have not banned the material. Plus, it’s also possible for workers today to become exposed when working on older buildings or with other materials.
Officials Knew the Risks for Years
In the late ’70s, court documents showed that asbestos officials knew of the health dangers for decades but shielded this information from the public.
Because of this, victims today have a path to receive compensation for their mesothelioma diagnosis.
If you have received this diagnosis, we would like to speak with you. You may have legal options available, including receiving a financial settlement. Call our Tacoma mesothelioma lawyers today.
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