Asbestos is a naturally occurring silicate material that was commonly used in the United States and throughout the world in many different industries. Many companies and manufacturers used asbestos in their products as it is resistant to heat and was affordable. The problem with asbestos-containing products is that exposure to asbestos fibers is very hazardous. Asbestos is a carcinogen, so breathing in the fibers can lead to cancer and other asbestos-related diseases. There are multiple organizations that provide information about asbestos along with ways to keep safe.
Mesothelioma and Asbestos
Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by breathing in asbestos fibers. The most common type of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma, which begins in the lining of the lungs. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they can become lodged in the lungs leading to inflammation and scarring. Although rare, mesothelioma is a very aggressive cancer. If detected early enough, more treatment options tend to be available. Mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases have a latency period. Symptoms do not normally develop until decades after exposure.
If you have been exposed to asbestos, especially if you were regularly exposed through your place of work and have developed mesothelioma, our team can help you get compensated.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR)
ATSDR studies research on asbestos and evaluates different asbestos exposures at various sites, these could include buildings, natural deposits, and mines. The ASTDR offers resources and information about asbestos including those most at risk of exposure.
The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC)
CPSC focuses on protecting the public from risks of serious injury or death that are “unreasonable.” They provide information about products that have been recalled due to asbestos contamination.
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
The EPA regulates exposure to asbestos in buildings, the environment, and drinking water. The Occupational Safety and Health Act places the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) responsible for creating standards to protect workers who may be exposed to asbestos at their place of work. The EPA and OSHA provide people with information about asbestos and knowing your rights as a worker. It is a federal law that employees must have a safe workplace. Based on this, workers have the right to:
- Receive required safety equipment
- Get safety and health training in a language
- Be protected from toxic chemicals (such as asbestos)
Ban on Asbestos
In 2024 the use of chrysotile asbestos was finally banned in the US. This type of asbestos can be found in many products including brakes and gaskets in automobiles.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease due to past exposure to asbestos, we can help. Our website includes information on mesothelioma, asbestos exposure, hospitals to receive treatment at, legal help, and more. For more information call us at (800) 505-6000, fill out our contact form, or utilize our chat feature.
Sources:
https://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/asbestos/prevention
