Asbestos is a silicate mineral that is used commercially in building materials. This became a popular material among manufacturers in the 19th century due to its tensile strength and resistance to heat, electrical and chemical damage. It is also priced reasonably. However, the prolonged inhalation of asbestos particles may cause serious problems, including developing mesothelioma.
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Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is a form of cancer that afflicts around 3,000 people in the United States each year. This disease affects the cells in the mesothelium, or the outer lining of the heart, lungs and stomach. People who are most often exposed to asbestos are workers in factories, mines, shipyards and even construction. Asbestos is common in old and dusty places that were built a long time ago. However, if asbestos sticks on the clothes of the factory worker, construction worker, shipyard worker or mineworker, he or she may bring it home to their wife and children. Thus, even the family of the worker may be exposed to asbestos fiber and be at risk of mesothelioma.
Additionally, when the children go to school or when the spouse goes to work, this would expose the people at these respective places to asbestos fiber. This in turn spreads this cancer far from the places that are known to have asbestos. Most people that develop mesothelioma have no idea where the disease-causing pathogens came from.
Awareness campaigns
Agencies such as the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health, developed campaigns to address concerns associated with asbestos exposure. People who have suffered mesothelioma and other complications due to asbestos exposure may bring a lawsuit in order to compensate. Contact an attorney to know what your rights are for your case.