Mesothelioma Risks: Protect Yourself!
It is generally believed
that the use of asbestos in building materials, homes, and workplaces has been
outlawed, but such is not the case. Companies that expose their employees to
asbestos fibers are liable for the mesothelioma cancer that often
results, but there is ample evidence that the use of the carcinogen is by no
means confined to the past. Mesothelioma is almost entirely caused by
asbestos exposure, but there are employers, building companies, and manufacturers
that still take the overwhelming risk of causing malignant mesothelioma.
So, how can you protect your family and yourself from mesothelioma cancer? First, if you or anyone in your household works in a factory; refinery; shipyard; or at a building construction or demolition site, ask to see the paperwork declaring the workplace an asbestos-free environment. The dangers of mesothelioma can also be ameliorated by purchasing and using protective gear when doing any maintenance of your attic or basement, the two areas most likely to conceal asbestos in older homes.
Another source of asbestos that can lead to malignant mesothelioma is home insulation; working with the insulation of your home without taking proper precautions is one way homeowners can unknowingly expose themselves to asbestos fibers, making themselves and others in their households more susceptible to malignant mesothelioma.
Mesothelioma is also sometimes diagnosed in
individuals who have never worked at an asbestos-filled environment, but who live
in a community close to a factory, mill, refinery, or construction or
demolition site. The asbestos fibers that cause mesothelioma cancer can
be carried on the wind and inhaled by those living close to their source. If
you live close to any such sites, ask to see the written proof of its
asbestos-free status.