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 […]

Many Navy veterans who served prior to 1980 are being diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure in their past. The War-Related Illness and Injury Study Centers (WRIISC) has published an explainer on asbestos exposure among servicemembers. One of the most important points the group shares is that Navy veterans are at the highest risk of developing […]

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 […]

While radiation is rarely used as a first-line therapy for mesothelioma, it is more commonly used either as palliative care or as an adjuvant therapy to help remove remaining cancer cells after surgery. Doctors may recommend radiation as a primary treatment if a patient has low-stage mesothelioma but is not a good surgical candidate. Despite extensive […]

Sports are an important part of our culture, loved not only for the entertainment they provide, but also by athletes by the opportunity to improve their skill, connect with other athletes, and compete on a national stage. However, sports do come with risks as well. Sprains, strains, and fractures happen every year in accidents. So […]

Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. These microscopic fibers can lodge in lung tissue, causing scarring and reducing the lungs’ ability to function properly. Over time, this condition can lead to severe respiratory issues and even fatal complications. Asbestosis is directly linked to prolonged exposure to asbestos, often in workplace […]

The U.S. Navy describes destroyers as “fast warships providing multi-mission offensive and defensive capability, independently or in fleet support”. They were created for the purpose of protecting larger vessels; and although the first destroyer appeared in 1902, this class of ship really came into prominence during World War II. During the war years, destroyers served […]

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 […]

One of the most frustrating characteristics of mesothelioma is that in spite of aggressive therapy, the disease recurs in most patients, especially if it is only treated with surgery. That’s the reason, say researchers in a study titled Photodynamic therapy for mesothelioma published in the September 2001 edition of Current Treatment Options in Oncology, that, “. . […]

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 […]