Asbestos exposure has been proven to cause lung cancer and mesothelioma. There is increasing evidence that exposure may also cause Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD as it is commonly known. COPD is one of the most frequent forms of lung disease. What is COPD? COPD is actually an umbrella term for two medical conditions that cause breathing […]

Asbestos and military veterans who develop mesothelioma from exposure can often be traced back to their working environment in the military. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral used for centuries for its heat-resistant and insulating properties. However, it wasn’t until the Industrial Revolution that asbestos became widespread. In the 20th century, asbestos was used in […]

Nearly 150,000 Americans succumb to lung cancer from asbestos every year. The vast majority of these cases are a result of smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke. However, a subset of the lung cancer patient population has developed the disease as a result of toxic exposure to substances such as asbestos. While many people believe mesothelioma is […]

The most common form of kidney cancer, renal cell carcinoma, originates in the tubes inside the kidney that filter the blood and remove waste products. It accounts for about 95 percent of all kidney malignancies. Some important characteristics of the disease include no early warning signs, a number of symptoms that include: Blood in the […]

Asbestos exposure can cause medical conditions other than mesothelioma. Pleural plaques, like mesothelioma, usually develop after a latency period of at least 20 years. However, they have been reported cases in which the disease developed in less than ten years after the initial exposure to asbestos. Patients with pleural plaques do not exhibit any specific symptoms. […]

There two main groups of asbestos: Amphibole, which is characterized by straight, needle-like fibers. The commercial forms of amphibole include crocidolite or blue asbestos, and amosite or brown asbestos. Both of these forms are mined in South Africa and Australia. Serpentine, which is characterized by curly fibers. Chrysotile or white asbestos is the only form that is used commercially. It is […]

Although a cure is possible, treatment for esophageal cancer takes place over an extended period of time, which infringes on quality of life. The treatment options include esophagectomy, a procedure to remove all or part of the esophagus. This method carries a high rate of mortality. Nonsurgical treatment includes radiation and chemotherapy, either alone or […]

Asbestosis is the direct result of asbestos exposure. This condition develops when asbestos particles have been inhaled and become embedded in the lungs, leading to irritation and the development of scar tissue. This, in turn, causes the lungs to stiffen, which restricts air flow and ultimately inhibits breathing and causes a dry, raspy cough. Asbestosis Symptoms […]

Since 1964, scientists have been trying to determine whether asbestos exposure may be linked to colon cancer. Recent research suggests those who are exposed to large amounts of the substance may be at a higher risk of developing gastrointestinal cancer. Therefore, if you used to hold a job that exposed you to asbestos and you have recently been diagnosed […]

Not to be confused with plumbers, pipefitters are skilled tradespeople who are responsible for the design, installation, and maintenance of the pipe systems found in both manufacturing facilities and commercial buildings. Because pipefitters work on the internal areas of buildings and other structures, they come in contact with insulation, wiring, and other systems necessary to […]