Mesothelioma May Be Caused By Even Brief Asbestos Exposure

The International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health report previously that even brief exposure to asbestos may lead to the development of mesothelioma. The reported case detailed the situation of a 58-year-old man who developed mesothelioma after being exposed to asbestos-containing gaskets during a summer job. He had no additional exposure.

Mesothelioma is a rare and deadly cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and chest cavity. The development of the disease is associated with being exposed to asbestos. In fact, nearly all of those people who contract mesothelioma have been in contact with asbestos products. This may be as the result of exposure at work or contact with asbestos fibers, such as washing the clothes of a family member who has worked with asbestos. Symptoms of mesothelioma include shortness of breath, chest wall pain, and weight loss. However, because symptoms generally don’t appear until at least 20 years after exposure occurs, this cancer is often diagnosed in late stages. No known cure exists for mesothelioma.

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos and has developed mesothelioma, it is important to contact an experienced New Mexico asbestos lawyer to discuss your options. Often, it is possible to obtain compensation for those people wrongfully exposed to asbestos.

According to the article, the man’s only exposure to asbestos occurred for 4-hours/day for 3 years during his high school summers. This study further establishes that exposure to asbestos for short and intense periods of time can lead to asbestos disease.

Although the use of asbestos has been curtailed, between 1940 and 1980, at least 27 million Americans were exposed to asbestos at work. Asbestos had several commercial uses, especially in building materials, insulation, and auto parts.

Nearly 3,000 U.S. citizens are diagnosed with mesothelioma each year.

For more information, contact the New Mexico injury attorneys at the Branch Law Firm for a confidential consultation.