dangerous when the product breaks down, causing fibers to become airborne and pose an inhalation risk.
Mesothelioma
Once inhaled or ingested, the fibers embed themselves into the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen where mesothelioma may develop. This particular cancer has an abnormally long latency period, and those exposed to asbestos won’t know its effects for 15 to 50 years when the first symptoms arise. Mesothelioma is a rare cancer, affecting about 3,000 people annually in the U.S. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates 125 million people worldwide are exposed to asbestos and more than 107,000 workers die each year from contracting mesothelioma while working.
Those at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma include, but are not limited to, construction workers, firefighters, military members, shipyard workers, mechanics, power, and chemical plant employees, boiler workers, and school and hospital employees.
There is no cure for mesothelioma, but advancements in cancer care have shown promise for those suffering. Through early detection and a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation and even immunotherapy or clinical trials, some mesothelioma patients experience shrinking or in a few cases, complete removal of their tumors. Important considerations in