From the late 19th century to the early 1980s, asbestos exposure was rampant as asbestos was heavily used in manufacturing, construction, the US military, in shipyards, in the railroad, in the automotive industry, and in many other occupations. Its use was so widespread because asbestos is a particularly unusual naturally occurring fiber - it is difficult to destroy and makes an excellent flame retardant/fireproofing and insulating material.
Tragically, the very properties that make it so valuable in many products are the same properties that make it a very dangerous and carcinogenic (cancer causing) substance. The fibers are microscopic and can easily be inhaled or swallowed where they lodge in the mesothelial lining of the lungs, chest, and stomach.
Over several decades, the asbestos fibers remain in the body and irritate the lining until they trigger mesothelioma, an asbestos cancer of the mesothelial lining.
Occupations Commonly Associated with Mesothelioma
The widespread use of asbestos in public buildings (such as schools), construction products, ships and even consumer products such as toasters and hair dryers means that just about anyone during those years could have been exposed to asbestos and be at risk for mesothelioma.
However, people that were regularly exposed to asbestos over prolonged periods of time on the job are some of the ones commonly diagnosed with mesothelioma. These include but are not limited to:
Dangers of Asbestos Known for Decades
Asbestos manufacturing companies knew that their products caused mesothelioma, asbestosis, and other diseases. Yet history has shown that many of these companies chose to continue using them without adequate warning and worker protection. As a result, countless workers were exposed to this deadly substance throughout the 20th century and decades later these same workers and even some of their family members (because asbestos could be carried home on clothing or shoes) are dying from mesothelioma.
The exact reasons for this blatant negligence may differ a bit from company to company; but overwhelmingly, greed was the primary factor. Asbestos companies were making big money with their products, and they placed money ahead of the health of their workers and the general public.
Early Screening is Vital
If you believe you were exposed to asbestos on the job, make an appointment with your physician for a screening as soon as possible. While mesothelioma is a very aggressive cancer, patients who are diagnosed early may have more mesothelioma treatment options available to them.
We also highly recommend that you contact us for information on experienced mesothelioma trial attorneys. They can help you pinpoint who is responsible for your exposure and assist you in seeking financial compensation for medical bills, loss of income, and other damages to you and your family.