Asbestos is everywhere. It is made from natural mineral fibers that resist heat, corrosion and electricity. It insulates and makes products stronger and is used in cloth, paper, cement, plastic and other materials used in a variety of industries. While the dangers of asbestos became well known in the 1970s, small amounts of asbestos are still used in products today.
Unfortunately, when asbestos fibers or dust are inhaled or ingested, they become permanently trapped in the body where they are a toxic presence. They can cause scarring, inflammation and even genetic damage. The effects can sometimes take decades to result in cancers and lung disease. Mesothelioma is an aggressive cancer almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos. Lung cancer, ovarian cancer, and laryngeal cancers have also been caused by asbestos exposure, as well as plueral effusions and plaques, pleural thickening, and COPD. These illnesses can affect people who work directly with asbestos products, and also family members and people passing by sites where asbestos fibers are in the air.
Some of the industries most involved with asbestos exposure include construction, shipbuilding, mining, firefighting, and heavy industry.
The diagnosis of asbestos related illnesses can be hard to diagnose as they can take years to lead to symptoms. Signs of asbestos illness include shortness of breath, chest pain, abdominal pain, and fluid buildup. Of course, these symptoms can also indicate other illnesses, so ruling out other causes is important. A biopsy is usually needed for a sure diagnosis.
Multi district litigation is ongoing for injuries from asbestos. If you have been diagnosed with mesothliomia or another asbestos related illness, please call us at 402 505-3555 to discuss your legal options.
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