Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung disease caused by exposure to toxic substances including asbestos. The average life expectancy for a mesothelioma patient after diagnosis is six to 18 months. This short life expectancy is often due to mesothelioma’s long latency period, which often results in the disease not being discovered or diagnosed until it’s already in its later stages.
Given the seriousness of this disease, many wonder if there is any way to prevent it. We discuss that and more below.
Causes of Mesothelioma
The main cause of mesothelioma is exposure to asbestos. This often happens in certain workplaces including construction zones and demolition sites where older buildings are destroyed and dust and other particulates are lifted into the air. Additionally, some older homes may still contain asbestos.
When individuals breathe in asbestos particles, they become embedded in the lining of the lungs, heart, and abdomen. This may cause the cells in these areas to divide at an abnormally fast rate and contribute to the development of tumors that, when left untreated, inhibit these organs’ functions and lead to the death of the patient.
Preventing Mesothelioma
There are certain measures that employers should be taking to ensure the safety of their worksites and protect the health of their employees. Worksites should be analyzed before any construction or demolition occurs so that the crew knows to exercise caution near the area. Additionally, all workers should be provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) if toxic materials are known to be on the premises.
Other risk factors besides dangerous worksites increase the risk of mesothelioma. These include the following:
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Living with someone who works with asbestos
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Radiation exposure
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Family history
Suffering from Mesothelioma? Contact Us Today
We know the physical, emotional, and financial turmoil that mesothelioma patients experience. At Shrader & Associates L.L.P., we make it our mission to protect these patients’ rights from negligent employers who should have exercised more caution. We want to do the same for you.
Contact us today at (713) 787-3733 to schedule a consultation with our team.