Asbestos Exposure / Asbestos Related Cancers / Mesothelioma
Dangers of Asbestos Exposure
When breathed in, asbestos fibers tend to build up in the lungs and cause inflammation and scarring over time. This can affect breathing and lead to serious health problems.
Asbestos exposure kills at least 107,000 people each year globally, according to the World Health Organization. It is estimated that about half of the deaths from occupational cancer can be attributed to asbestos. In addition, several thousand deaths annually are estimated to be caused by asbestos exposure in the home.
Asbestos Related Diseases
It can take years to several decades for an asbestos-related disease to surface after a person’s first exposure to asbestos. Asbestos-related diseases include:
Mesothelioma - Cancer of the lining of the lungs and other organs
Lung Cancer - Malignant tumor that invades the lungs
Asbestosis - Scarring of lung tissue
Types of Trades Exposed to Asbestos
Those most at risk include:
● Insulators ● Pipefitters
● Railroad workers ● Carpenters
● Shipbuilders ● Construction workers
● Plumbers ● Factory workers
● Steamfitters ● Brake mechanics
Long-Term Complications Linked to Asbestos Exposure
Asbestosis
Asbestos is a chronic lung condition that kills nearly 1500 Americans each year, with a latency period of at least several years. The disease progresses over time and can make it very hard to breathe. Some patients need extra oxygen to help them live; others may need a lung transplant.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is a malignant tumor that invades the lungs. Numerous studies of asbestos-exposed workers link asbestos fibers to an increased risk of lung cancer. Often, cases of lung cancer in asbestos workers occur 15 years or more after the first exposure to asbestos. An estimated 4,800 Americans die each year from asbestos-related lung cancer. The combination of smoking cigarettes and asbestos exposure is particularly hazardous.
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer of the lining of the lungs and other organs. It can take anywhere from one to five decades or more to develop. Sadly, the risk of mesothelioma does not diminish over time after exposure to asbestos stops. An estimated 3,000 people are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually and nearly as many die from the disease each year.
If you, a family member, friend, or co-worker, are diagnosed with an Asbestos related lung disease then the Attorneys at Rinere & Rinere, LLP can help. For over 25 years we have been involved in Asbestos litigation and have recovered millions of dollars for our clients. These Asbestos claims and settlements are not made against your former employer, but are made against the manufacturers and suppliers of asbestos product. It would be our privilege to represent you in your claim. Call today.