Mesothelioma - What causes it?

Asbestos and Mesothelioma

Asbestos is the name of a group of minerals that occur naturally as masses of strong, flexible fibers that can be separated into thin threads and woven. Asbestos has been widely used in many industrial products, including cement, brake linings, roof shingles, flooring products, textiles, and insulation, as well as many others. If tiny asbestos particles float in the air, especially during the manufacturing process, they may be inhaled or swallowed, and can cause serious health problems. Working with asbestos is the major risk factor for mesothelioma. A history of asbestos exposure at work is reported in about 70 to 80 percent of all cases.  In addition to mesothelioma, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of lung cancer, asbestosis, and other cancers, such as those of the larynx and kidney.

Who is at Risk for Developing Mesothelioma?

Asbestos has been mined and used commercially since the late 1800s.  Millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos dust over the past century.  Initially, the risks associated with asbestos exposure were not known.  However, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma was later found among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and mills, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction industries, and other tradespeople.  Today, the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) sets limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. People who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment to lower their risk of exposure.

The risk of asbestos-related disease increases with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer exposure time.  However, some individuals with only brief exposures have developed mesothelioma.  Not all workers, however, who were heavily exposed to asbestos develop asbestos-related diseases.  In addition to first-hand exposure, there is some evidence that family members and others living with asbestos workers have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma, and possibly other asbestos-related diseases.  This risk may be the result of exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair of asbestos workers.  Despite the known risk, safeguards have been slow to come by and it is only recently that employers have advised asbestos workers to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace to reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers. 

For a better understanding of cancer risk factors in general, and asbestos as a causitive factor, see these National Cancer Institute's publications:

Cancer Causes and Risks Factors

Asbestos Exposure:  Questions and Answers

Mesothelioma:  Questions and Answers

Contact Us Today For A Free Confidential Consultation

The law firm of Paul & Hanley, LLP has offices located throughout California, including Berkeley, Westlake Village (Los Angeles), San Francisco, and San Diego, and our California malignant mesothelioma lawyers handle cases in courts throughout California, Nevada, Arizona, and across the United States.  To learn more about asbestos, mesothelioma and the attorneys at Paul & Hanley, please contact us today for a free confidential consultation.  For immediate legal assistance about a potential claim, call us toll free at 800-933-2244.