Mesothelioma Risk Factors and Second Hand Asbestos Exposure

Mesothelioma risk factors are anything that increases a person’s chance of getting a disease. Asbestos exposure is the main risk factor for developing mesothelioma. Individuals who have been exposed to asbestos for a long time on the job are more likely to get asbestos cancer than those who have not been exposed to asbestos. Various studies have reported that more than 85 percent of mesothelioma cases are linked to asbestos exposure.

High Risk Asbestos Exposure Job Sites include:

• Construction Workers
• Auto mechanics
• Building Engineers
• Railroad Workers
• Shipyard Workers and Navy Sailors
• Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) workers

Family Members and Second Hand Asbestos Exposure Risk Factors

Studies have shown that family members are also at risk for asbestos exposure due to second hand exposure. Asbestos workers can carry the asbestos fibers on their hair, shoes and clothing which can put the family at serious risk of being exposed to asbestos particles and developing mesothelioma cancer.

Asbestos Exposure in Commercial Products

Asbestos and asbestos materials where used in many commercial products in the past. Many workers in various industries where asbestos exposure was a risk came in contact with the deadly material on a daily bases and for long hours every day. These workers did not know that their lives were at risk. Some of the commercial products that these workers handled were; brake pads, roofing, insulation,
door gaskets, floor tiles plus many others.

Second Hand Asbestos Exposure Putting Women at Risk for Mesothelioma

Number of women suffering from mesothelioma is still lower than men. The highest cases of mesothelioma are found in men who were exposed to asbestos at work, according to studies. Because of this finding, it is safe to say that most of the women who have developed mesothelioma cancer came in contact with asbestos through asbestos fibers brought home on their spouses clothing and hair or from products within the home.

What Individuals should do if Exposed to Asbestos

If you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos, you must seek immediate diagnosis. Symptoms may not show up for a very long time. It could take as long as 12 to 30 years before you see some signs or symptoms, but these symptoms are often misdiagnosed as other illnesses. Let your physician know that you were exposed to asbestos so that you can get a proper diagnosis. If diagnosed with mesothelioma, get the best medical treatment and legal help to ensure a comfortable life.

Source :
www.mesotheliomaresourceonline.com/mesothelioma-risk-factors/