Overexposure to asbestos is the main factor which is responsible for contracting mesothelioma. Of all the reported mesothelioma cases, about 70-80 percent has a history of asbestos exposure. At the same time, a few other cases have been reported where asbestos was not at involved. Asbestos is a mineral occurring in nature as masses of flexible fibers and it can be separated into fine threads and woven. It is widely put to industrial use for manufacturing cement, flooring products, brake linings, roof shingles, insulation products and textiles. Owing to its widespread use, a number of workers have been affected by asbestos mesothelioma.
The asbestos particles being so tiny float in the air during the manufacturing process. Unknowingly, they may be inhaled or swallowed by the workers, resulting in serious health problems. It should be noted that smoking and asbestos exposure enhance a person’s risk of contracting cancer of the air passageways in the lung. Millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos since the early’40s. Shipyard workers, those who are working in asbestos mines and mills, workers in the heating and construction industries etc also face increased threat of catching the disease.
With heavier and longer espouser to asbestos, the risk of asbestos related disease increases. At this point it should also be remembered that while many who have had maximum exposure to asbestos were spared, there are a few unfortunate ones who contracted asbestos mesothelioma though they were exposed to the minimum. Since the late’00s, asbestos has been mined and put to commercial use. The risks were unknown to the common public in the initial days. After establishing the connection between the cancer and asbestos, many laws have come into existence for the betterment of the workers. One such measure is setting limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in workplace.
The malicious particles have not even spared the family members and others living with asbestos workers. These people become the hapless victims of asbestos particles brought home by the workers on the clothing and hair. Now the welfare measures adopted for the workers include bathing and change of dress at the work place.
Diagnosis of asbestos mesothelioma is very difficult as the symptoms of the disease appear very late. The resemblance of the symptoms with those of other diseases also prove and obstacle in the path of early diagnosis. Improvement in medical technology has given rise to many treatment options for the victims, though a complete cure is not materialized so far.
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