Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. Around 80% of mesothelioma cases are caused by asbestos exposure.
The fibers get into the body and begin to irritate the cell walls of the lungs, heart, and intestinal region. It can take up to 50 years but eventually, it could lead to a cancer tumor.
Asbestos exposure is rare these days but maybe you’re trying to find out if you’re at risk of contracting mesothelioma, so here are the five most common ways people are exposed to it.
If you want to find out more about mesothelioma then you can check out www.survivingmesothelioma.com for more information on the disease.
Being a Veteran
The US military has used asbestos in military installations for decades. This is why so many veterans contract mesothelioma later in life.
It was mainly used due to the fact it has incredible fire-resistant properties, which made it incredibly popular. A lot of veterans, particularly those involved in construction and working on warships, may well have suffered from exposure to the potentially deadly substance .
Clearing Out Houses
Asbestos is not dangerous as long as it’s not moving around. For example, when a board made from the substance is used in a home it’s not dangerous. The danger happens during home clearances or when it is disturbed and breaks up.
The people involved may inadvertently disturb the fibres when they move things around or begin prepping an area for construction.
Allowing the fibers into the air is a big danger, which is why one of the most effective ways to reduce the growth of mesothelioma is to wear the right equipment and call in an experienced removal expert.
Cleaning Work Clothes
A lot of women have been exposed to this potentially deadly element in the past without even working with the substance.
Due to a lack of knowledge and awareness in the past, many workers went home with dust still clinging to their work clothes. When this was taken home and washed, the fibers were disturbed and may have led to family members ingesting them.
Emergency Responders
Until the 1980s, the substance was still used regularly in the construction of homes and office buildings. Emergency responders were at risk because when a fire, a flood, or any other disaster occurs that asbestos is released into the air.
Not all emergency responders wore the masks they do today, so their safety equipment wouldn’t have been enough to protect them.
Working in a Factory
Anyone who worked in a factory potentially worked with asbestos. It was used in insulation, papers, textiles, and even gaskets. For this reason, industrial workers are one of the most ‘at risk’ groups of contracting mesothelioma.
Even working at a factory as a mechanic could have exposed you to it in a few short hours.
Last Word – Be Aware of the Risk of Mesothelioma
Don’t let yourself get caught by mesothelioma by surprise. The earlier you get it diagnosed the better your prognosis.
Think about your work history and where you may have been exposed to asbestos. Make sure you take the time to visit your doctor for a health check on a regular basis.
Are you worried that you may have been exposed to asbestos?
