Did you know that a silent and dormant killer may be living in your home? For decades asbestos was known as a prized mineral and used everywhere in building materials, home products, and so much more. That means asbestos exposure in homes, especially in those built before 1980, remains a very real threat for many… Read More »
If you got your pathology report back recently and it said lung cancer, you may be wondering what to do now. A lung cancer diagnosis is scary, and if the disease was caused by asbestos exposure, you might not know where to turn. But there have been advances in treatment for asbestos-caused cancers, so there… Read More »
I breathed in asbestos dust now what? Asbestos is a group of minerals that occurs naturally in the earth. The most common forms are chrysotile and amphibole asbestos. Asbestos is useful in many industrial and construction applications because of its strength and fire resistance. But inhaling or swallowing microscopic asbestos fibers can cause devastating diseases,… Read More »
Electrical wiring is found in any facility that has electricity. Almost all electrical wire is insulated by electrical cloth and other materials that prevent fires. If an electrical short happens that causes a spark, it is dampened by the electrical cloth around the wire and dies out. Before the 1980s, asbestos was often used in… Read More »
As many as 80% of mesothelioma cases are related to exposure to asbestos. While coming into contact with this harmful substance is certainly not the only way to risk developing mesothelioma, it is clearly the most common method. But not every person who has ever been exposed to asbestos has developed mesothelioma, and most of… Read More »
Asbestos, once a popular material used in construction, plumbing and manufacturing, has been well-established as a carcinogen, meaning it causes cancer in humans. Since the 1970s, asbestos has been heavily regulated, and uses of it today are few, though it remains technically legal in the United States. In addition to causing multiple types of cancer,… Read More »
Companies that manufacture and sell baby powder, including Johnson & Johnson, have been beset by lawsuits claiming that the product has caused dozens of people to develop cancer. In February 2020, Johnson & Johnson was ordered by a jury to pay $750 million to four plaintiffs that jury members determined had gotten cancer from using… Read More »
When the two soaring Twin Towers of the World Trade Center came tumbling down on Sept. 11, 2001, the air of lower Manhattan was thick with dust. Fires burned in the area for almost three months after the attacks, and more than 1.8 million tons of debris would eventually be hauled away from the site.… Read More »
COPD, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, is a common chronic illness that is most often progressive, meaning it gets worse rather than better over time. For this reason, many people find it difficult to distinguish between COPD and conditions like asbestosis that are connected to asbestos exposure. But can COPD be directly caused by exposure… Read More »
Asbestosis is a chronic, often progressive lung disease caused by exposure to asbestos, a mineral that for decades was used in construction and manufacturing. The majority of people who have asbestosis were exposed to asbestos through their jobs, and the mineral is still in use in many parts of the world, including the United States,… Read More »
Secondary asbestos exposure occurs when a worker who is exposed to asbestos at work brings asbestos fibers home. This puts their loved ones at risk of getting mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases, including lung cancer and asbestosis. Secondary asbestos exposure is especially frequent among women and children. Before strict asbestos regulations were passed in the… Read More »
The paper industry is a vital aspect of American business, even with technology as advanced as it is today. All paper is produced in paper mills, and paper mill workers are needed to produce vast amounts of paper products each year. Paper mill workers work in paper plants where the paper is made from vegetable… Read More »
If you have been affected by the use of talcum powder or someone you know has been, contact us for a FREE case review. There is substantial compensation available if you’ve been diagnosed. There is no charge or obligation attached to case reviews. In the last several years, more and more people have become aware… Read More »
If you have been affected by the use of talcum powder or someone you know has been, contact us for a FREE case review. There is substantial compensation available if you’ve been diagnosed with ovarian cancer or mesothelioma. There is no charge or obligation attached to case reviews. Talcum powder is a common and seemingly… Read More »
If you have been affected by the use of talcum powder or someone you know has been, contact us for a FREE case review. There is substantial compensation available if you’ve been diagnosed. There is no charge or obligation attached to case reviews. Some clinical studies have shown a link between talcum powder use and… Read More »
Oil refineries are heavy industry plants where crude oil is refined and processed into various products, such as gasoline, heating oil, diesel fuel, and kerosene. Refining oil into usable products requires the liquid to be boiled and for assorted chemicals to be removed. Oil refinery workers work in large complexes with a great deal of… Read More »
Asbestos is part of many buildings that were constructed before the 1980s. Anyone who was employed as a painter before then was at risk of developing mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. Even today, painters in older buildings risk being exposed to the dangerous mineral. Painters Fast Facts National Employment, 2018: 375,000 Similar Occupations: Carpenters, construction… Read More »
Chemical plants are industrial processing facilities where many chemicals are blended and manufactured in large quantities. Chemical plant workers produce products for many industries, such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, rubber and artificial synthetic fibers, soap, cleaning compounds, and toilet preparation manufacturing. (Asbestos.com) Chemical Plant Workers Fast Facts (BLS.gov) National Employment, 2018: 30,290 Similar Occupations: Water… Read More »
Machinists work in many industries, from skyscraper construction to shipyards. In whatever industry they work, they create precision-cut metal parts. This is a highly skilled profession that has risks, however, and one of them is potential asbestos exposure. Machinists who worked in the field decades ago were at higher risk of many asbestos-related diseases, including… Read More »
Creating, storing and distributing electrical power effectively to power our world requires a lot of skilled workers. Most modern power plants have at least 400 to 700 power plant workers on staff, including blue-collar and white-collar workers. Depending on their certifications, their work can include operating machinery, system control, metalwork, and equipment maintenance. The majority… Read More »
Blacksmiths today tend to work in artisanal settings rather than create tools. In spite of changes, the overall blacksmithing process is still the same. Blacksmiths Fast Facts National Employment, 2018: 21,000 Similar Occupations: Boilermakers, carpenters, assemblers and fabricators, welders, cutters, and solderers, machinists Previously Exposed: Yes Still Being Exposed: No Asbestos-Related Disease Risk: Moderate States… Read More »
Welding is a process that is involved in all kinds of metalwork. Modern welding evolved from the blacksmithing craft of centuries ago. Blacksmiths were the original metalworkers who heated the metal and pounded it into different pieces to join them. This changed in the 20th century when electric arc welding became common. Welders Fast Facts… Read More »
Asbestos products were used in the ironworks and metal works industry for much of the 1900s. Before strict safety measures were enacted in the 1980s, ironworkers and related workers did their difficult work in places that were rife with asbestos exposure. Iron Workers Fast Facts (BLS.gov) National Employment, 2018: 18,500 Similar Occupations: Boilermakers, carpenters, masonry… Read More »
Cement masons are responsible for mixing, forming, and laying cement products that often contained asbestos for decades. Part of their work included stirring asbestos into cement, making it into blocks, and then putting the products in commercial and residential buildings. Cement Masons Fast Facts (BLS.gov) National Employment, 2018: 289,000 Similar Occupations: Carpenters, construction laborers, and… Read More »
Steel mill workers operate in dirty, high-temperature environments to produce heavy metals to make buildings, bridges, cars, and much more. The steel mill is a heavy industrial plant that manufactures steel, which is an alloy of carbon and iron. Steel Workers Fast Facts (BLS.gov) National Employment, 2018: 18,500 Similar Occupations: Boilermakers, carpenters, masonry workers, assemblers… Read More »
Carpenters are one of the most important occupations in the construction industry. Before metal studs were used, carpenters were entirely responsible for the interior build of most commercial and residential spaces in the US. Carpenter Workers Fast Facts (BLS.gov) National Employment, 2018: 1 million Similar Occupations: Construction and building inspectors, construction laborers and helpers, drywall… Read More »
Aerospace workers, including aeronautical engineers, had a vital role in researching, developing and making various flight vehicles in the 20th century. Many of these workers were exposed to hazardous levels of asbestos in a variety of aerospace applications. Aerospace workers who were active in the 50s, 60s, and 70s, in particular, could be at risk… Read More »
Shipbuilders build and maintain ships for civilian and military use. They make vessels ranging from aircraft carriers for the Navy to luxury liners for various cruise lines. These blue-collar workers perform such jobs as painting electrical work, welding, plumbing, insulating, repairing, and general contracting. No matter their specialty in shipbuilding, these workers were often exposed… Read More »
In recent times, more light has been shed on how some hospitals put hospital workers at risk of asbestos exposure. Below is more information about this growing problem. Hospital Workers Fast Facts (BLS.gov National Employment, 2018: 3 million Similar Occupations: Doctors, nurses, physicians’ assistants, clinical laboratory technologists, and technicians, audiologists, chiropractors Previously Exposed: Yes Still… Read More »
Asbestos was often used to make floor tiles, especially before the 1980s. Tile installers worked with them in a variety of projects and buildings, meaning they could be at risk of exposure to asbestos fibers. While the risk of asbestos exposure was thought to be fairly low, there are records of some tile workers getting… Read More »
Insulation workers work in many fields, but they are mostly responsible for the installation and replacement of materials that are used to insulate buildings and to control and maintain internal temperatures. While they usually work indoors in residential and commercial buildings, they also are employed on ships and machinery in various occupations. (Asbestos.com) Insulation workers… Read More »
There are hundreds of thousands of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) workers in the US. HVAC workers are employed in many types of residential properties and commercial buildings, such as factories, offices, schools, and hospitals. HVAC specialists often work in cramped locations where asbestos was once used. Asbestos-containing materials were once common in the… Read More »
Boilermakers and workers handle all aspects of boiler maintenance and operation. Some professionals focus on a particular area, such as installation, steamfitting, and pipefitting. Engine room workers are specialized boiler workers. All of them are at risk of asbestos exposure that can cause mesothelioma, a fatal cancer of the lung lining. (Asbestos.com) The US Department… Read More »
Workers in almost all construction trades face a higher risk for asbestos exposure, including drywall workers. World War II brought a high demand for many construction projects to drive the war effort. That including building ships, planes, and military support buildings. After the war, construction focused on commercial businesses, residential homes, and industrial factories. Almost… Read More »
Workers in most contracting and construction trades face a risk of asbestos exposure and lung disease. OSHA ranks construction and general contracting among the most dangerous industries in the US. Most workers in the contracting trades are familiar with the risks of asbestos exposure and other hazards. General Contractors Fast Facts (BLS.gov) National Employment: 1.6… Read More »
Hardwood and vinyl flooring have been a popular choice for flooring for decades, and many flooring products made of wood or vinyl before 1980 have asbestos mixed into them to increase their durability and heat resistance. This put hardwood and other flooring contractors at risk of asbestos exposure. Vinyl is a plastic resin that is… Read More »
Subways have made a significant impact on US transportation and commerce for more than 100 years. They provide millions of people who need an affordable way to move around a big city. Subway workers have played a significant role in this development. Their jobs include operating, building, inspecting, repairing and maintaining subway systems all over… Read More »
Farming and agriculture have been linked to many cases of mesothelioma over the years. There were nearly 3 million farms in operation in 1970 when asbestos was still heavily used. Agricultural workers were exposed every day as they worked on farm machinery and inside buildings that contained asbestos. While farming is not as popular as… Read More »
Mill workers take natural fibers in a textile mill, such as cotton and wool, and combine them with nylon and polyester to make yarn that is eventually made into various clothing products. Depending on the material and product, the yarn is then pressed, weaved, crocheted, or knitted. The final steps in the production of textiles… Read More »
Aircraft mechanics have long been known to be at higher risk for asbestos exposure because of the many parts and products installed in aircraft that contain asbestos. Aircraft mechanics are responsible for the upkeep of commercial and military airplanes in the United States. Aircraft mechanics have been certified by the FAA to adjust, repair, diagnose… Read More »
Pipefitters and plumbers install and repair pipes that provide water, steam, and air to businesses, homes, and factories. Workers in these professions are often exposed to asbestos, which can lead to mesothelioma. Pipefitters and plumbers work in construction teams on residential and business projects on various plumbing projects. They often install plumbing in new buildings… Read More »
Janitors often need to undertake many menial tasks, some of which require asbestos exposure. Some of the activities that can lead to asbestos exposure are checking pipe insulation and drilling into ceilings and floors. These work activities could lead to asbestos exposure if the building was constructed prior to the 1970s. Asbestos is an affordable,… Read More »
Mesothelioma caused by asbestos exposure is the latest cancer that is connected directly to the rescue, recovery, and clean up after the 9/11 terrorist attack on New York City in 2001. Eighteen years after the Twin Towers came down in a cloud of asbestos-laced and toxic dust, the first death from asbestos cancer has been… Read More »
If you ever worked in the construction trade before the 1980s, you should be aware that you may have been exposed to asbestos. Asbestos is a fibrous rock that was used in homes and other buildings until at least the early 1980s. Asbestos was used heavily in construction in the United States and other countries… Read More »
Electrical workers have long been susceptible to asbestos exposure going back to the early 20th century. Asbestos was thought to be the ideal substance to use to make electrical products. Asbestos is lightweight and an outstanding insulator for transferring electricity. It also is neutral in terms of conductivity, so it is the perfect insulator to… Read More »
When you or a loved one is diagnosed with asbestos in the lungs or mesothelioma, one of the biggest questions is about life expectancy. There is not a simple answer to how long you will live with this disease. Pleural mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer of the lung lining caused by asbestos exposure and pleural… Read More »
With over $30 billion available for victims of asbestos brake pad exposure, you could be entitled to financial compensations without ever filing a lawsuit. Mesothelioma & Lung Cancer victims with asbestos brake pad exposure, qualify immediately. Complete the form or call us toll free (800) 352-0871 The big question today is do brake dust still… Read More »
Firefighters regularly deal with serious asbestos exposure in their jobs. As a result, many firefighters death with a higher rate of asbestos-related diseases, such as mesothelioma. But when most people imagine what dangers firefighters face, they rarely think of asbestos exposure and the risk of mesothelioma and other cancers. Yet cancer is the top occupational… Read More »
Since it was revealed to be a potentially dangerous carcinogen in the 1970s, millions of homeowners have feared the possible discovery of asbestos in their homes. Whether it’s concern over cancer or worries about expensive removal bills, asbestos remains a primary area of concern for homeowners all over the country. In the case of asbestos,… Read More »
In many ways, railroads built the United States in many ways. Even today, railroad companies still employ more than one million people. But working in the railroad industry comes with risks. One of the most common has been asbestos exposure. Asbestos was heavily used in the manufacturing of train and railroad components from the 1930s… Read More »
At one time, asbestos was in wide use everywhere in America. It is a natural mineral in a fibrous form and is highly resistant to heat, water, chemicals, and electricity. Asbestos was used in thousands of construction, commercial and household products. Some of those products included: Fireproof coatings Concrete and cement Pipes Gaskets Bricks Drywall… Read More »
As many people know by now, lung cancer caused by asbestos can cause serious long-term damage to health. Because of the method by which asbestos enters the body (inhalation), the most commonly affected organs are the lungs. Unfortunately, lung cancer often results. However, lung cancer isn’t the only outcome possible with asbestos exposure. There are… Read More »
Wondering if you have a disease, or waiting for a prognosis if you’ve just discovered you have one, can be a tortuous experience. Worries can quickly transform into overwhelm, making life difficult in the extreme – even for people who normally have it all together. If you’re worried about asbestosis or another asbestos-related disease, you… Read More »
Asbestos has a terrible reputation these days, and for good reason. This tiny crystal, though it provides some serious benefits in building and electrical applications, can be deadly to those who experience routine exposure to it. Unfortunately, while the height of asbestos exposure occurred decades ago when the substance was still routinely used across industries… Read More »
If you have reached an asbestos cancer settlement with the company or companies that exposed you to this deadly human carcinogen, you probably are relieved. You will soon be able to obtain just compensation for your mesothelioma medical bills, lost earnings, and pain and suffering. However, sometimes settling an asbestos claim is the most straightforward… Read More »
Pleural effusion is a build-up of excess fluid between the pleura layers outside the lungs. The pleura are membranes lining the lungs and the chest cavity. They provide lubrication, so breathing is easier. In healthy people, a small amount of fluid is contained in the pleura. (My.Clevelandclinic.org). Pleural effusions have many causes, but one is… Read More »
Asbestos cancer (mesothelioma) occurs in the membranes that cover most of the internal organs. Mesothelioma starts as small nodules in the lining of your lungs or abdomen. Mesothelioma does not usually show symptoms until 20-50 years after asbestos exposure. Symptoms show up when the disease has gotten to later stages. Common asbestos cancer symptoms such… Read More »
