Risks of Asbestos

All forms of asbestos are carcinogenic. There are no signs that there is a “safe level” of human exposure. Any type of exposure to the naturally occurring fiber asbestos has the potential to cause mesothelioma cancer. Asbestos has been known not only to cause pleural mesothelioma, but other types of cancer and diseases such as:

• Asbestosis
• Lung / pleural disorders
• Pleural plaques
• Pleural thickening
• Pleural effusions
• Peritoneal mesothelioma
• Pericardial mesothelioma

Many people who have been diagnosed with mesothelioma have contracted this type of cancer through asbestos exposure at the workplace, although many others were exposed through asbestos contact at home or various products that were manufactured with asbestos. Asbestos fibers enter the lungs through inhalation or ingestion. The fibers become trapped in the lung lining and over time cause serious health effects, such as cancer.

Asbestos Exposure and Asbestosis

Asbestosis is a condition some people can contract after exposure to asbestos. Asbestosis is a condition characterized by inflammation in the lungs that makes it difficult to breath. Coughing and wheezing caused by inflammation can cause permanent lung damage. Asbestosis is not necessarily a precursor to mesothelioma, but some people who develop asbestosis may also develop mesothelioma.

Are certain people more at risk than others?

While there is no known “safe level” of asbestos exposure, some individuals may be more at risk than others. People who were exposed to higher doses of asbestos for longer periods are perhaps more at risk than others are. The size, shape, and type of asbestos fibers will also play a role in mesothelioma risk. People with pre-existing lung conditions such as weak lungs may also be at higher risk for developing mesothelioma after asbestos exposure.

If you were exposed to asbestos, you are at risk for developing mesothelioma cancer. Contact us today to tell us what happened to you so that you can learn your rights and options.