Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. People who develop mesothelioma have typically worked on jobs where they inhaled asbestos particles or were exposed to asbestos dust and fiber. A history of asbestos exposure exists in almost all cases.
Asbestos particles have been found in many industries including: lumber, shipyards, heating, mining, automotive, construction, plumbing and related trades. Asbestos has also been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation.
Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos dust. Symptoms of mesothelioma and other asbestos related diseases might not appear until 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos. And most people are unaware of their jobsite exposure to Asbestos.
In addition to mesothelioma, asbestos exposure can also lead to other asbestos related diseases including lung cancer, asbestosis (a noncancerous, chronic lung ailment), and cancers of the gastrointestinal track, kidney and larynx.
Cases of mesothelioma have been found in people whose only exposure was breathing asbestos-laced air through ventilation systems. Other cases had very minimal (3 months or less) direct exposure to asbestos.
Secondary Asbestos Exposure – Family Members with Mesothelioma
Family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos related diseases. This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers.
If you or a loved one have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or an asbestos related disease, let us help you retain an experienced mesothelioma lawyer to handle your legal claim. Call 1-877-573-0007 now.