Mesothelioma Risk Factors

In as many as 75-85% of mesothelioma cases, there is a history of exposure to asbestos.  The material was used extensively in numerous industries from the early 1900’s through the 1960’s.  Through the World War II era, over 8 million workers were exposed to asbestos.  Evidence that serious health problems were related to asbestos began to mount, and in 1999, a conclusive link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma was made. 

Because it can take as long as 50 years for mesothelioma to develop, anyone who has been exposed should be evaluated by a physician experienced in this form of cancer. Even if you are not ill, you should learn about your legal rights in case mesothelioma is found in the future. 

Asbestos is a broad term which refers to a collection of minerals know as asbestiform. It is a small mineral comprised of tiny fibers.  Asbestos fibers exist in two forms; they can be either amphibole or serpentine (chrysotile).  Several studies suggest that the amphibole form of asbestos is more dangerous than the chrysotile form, especially in mesothelioma.

These small particles float in the air, in an exposed environment and they may be inhaled or swallowed. Asbestos fibers breathed into the lungs cannot be expelled; they become embedded in the thin lining of the lungs, the mesothelium.  Over the period of many years, cells in the mesothelium can become cancerous.   In most cases of mesothelioma, it takes decades for the disease to cause symptoms.

Although a serious hazard to your health, asbestos is an excellent insulating material.  It is used in many products that need to withstand high heat such as home insulation and construction, brake pads, electrical equipment, hot water piping, boilers, ship engines, and welding supplies.  People who have worked in these industries should be screened regularly for the development of lung disease. 

When the asbestos is contained within finished products such as walls and tiles, it does not appear to pose a health as long as it is not damaged or disturbed.   However, damage or inadvertent destruction can release dangerous fibers into the air. When asbestos fibers are set free and inhaled, however, exposed individuals are at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease.

While smoking has not been found to cause mesothelioma, smoking has been linked to an increased incidence in mesothelioma in asbestos exposed workers.   Therefore, if you have had occupational e exposure to asbestos, smoking could raise the risk of developing mesothelioma.

Asbestos exposure

The most common way in which people are exposed to asbestos is through their work. There are a number of jobs in which exposure to asbestos may have occurred. Asbestos has been extensively used in industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation as well as shipbuilding and other forms of construction.  The risk of developing Mesothelioma increases according to the length and level of exposure to asbestos.  

The number of workers exposed to asbestos far exceeds the number of documented cases.  The reasons why some people who are exposed to asbestos do not develop the disease are not well understood.  

The risk of developing asbestos-related diseases varies with the type of industry in which the exposure occurred and with the extent of the exposure. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos fibers. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), however, has set a Permissible Exposure Limit (PEL) of 0.1 fibers per cubic centimeter (f/cc) for an 8 hour time weighted average. The safest course of action is to limit exposure and always wear protective gear when dealing with any type of suspected asbestos.

Hidden asbestos risks

The risk of developing mesothelioma is not just confined to the person directly exposed but may extend to family members and friends of those directly exposed. Even someone who has not been directly exposed or has been exposed at very low levels is at risk may develop the disease.  

An increasing incidence of mesothelioma in spouses and children whose only to asbestos was from the dust laden work clothes of a family member is being reported.   People who were in contact with workers in asbestos related injuries should also be vigilant for symptoms and be screened for lung disorders regularly.

Risk Factors Include: