What is Asbestos and How Exposure Occurs
Asbestos is a set of naturally occurring fibrous minerals that are resistant to heat and corrosion. Asbestos is often used in automotive parts, brake pads, insulation, alongside roof and floor tiles. Asbestos is a serious public health concern and can lead to the accumulation of trapped fibers in the body, causing inflammation and scarring. This is extremely dangerous to one’s health as it can lead to chronic health conditions. The following are diseases and cancers caused by the prolonged inhalation of asbestos fibers:
- Asbestosis
- Mesothelioma
- Lung cancer
- Ovarian cancer
- Laryngeal cancer
Asbestos exposure usually occurs when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed. This causes a release of microscopic particles and fibers into the air, making inhaling or swallowing them extremely dangerous to one’s health. These particles often become stuck in an individual’s lungs or other tissues in their body, causing cancers and diseases to occur in the future. The following is a list of occupational workers who have been exposed to asbestos particles the most:
- Construction workers
- Electricians
- Plumbers
- Mechanics
- Shipyard workers
- Factory workers
- Miners
Asbestos particles can also be inhaled through clothing, hair, or tools around the house. Asbestos particles are also present in older buildings, and when inhaled, they are known as environmental exposure.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is caused by prolonged inhalation of asbestos particles that, over time, cause scarring of the lung tissue. This ultimately causes chronic lung disease, where one’s lung elasticity is significantly reduced, often interfering with oxygen exchange. Symptoms of asbestosis include the following:
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Chest tightness
- Fatigue
- Reduced exercise intolerance
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is linked to asbestos exposure and is a rare, aggressive cancer that develops in the mesothelium. This is the thin lining that surrounds a person’s internal organs. This disease often appears 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos particles, making treatment for it difficult and limited. Treatment options for mesothelioma include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation, or palliative care. Symptoms of mesothelioma include the following:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Abdominal swelling
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer is also caused by exposure to asbestos particles. Similar to other asbestos-related cancers and diseases, lung cancer can take decades to develop, making treatment extremely difficult. Treatment for lung cancer caused by asbestos includes surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. This type of lung cancer develops in the lung tissue with symptoms including the following:
- Chronic cough
- Chest pain
- Coughing up blood
- Shortness of breath
- Recurring respiratory infections
Delayed Diagnosis
A delayed diagnosis for asbestos-related infections, cancers, and diseases is extremely dangerous for one’s health, safety, and well-being. Prolonged treatment of the diseases and cancers listed above can make recovery painful and very challenging. The extended latency period of asbestos-related diseases causes individuals to not experience any symptoms until decades after exposure. By the time symptoms appear, the disease may already be advanced, making treatment more painful, complex, and less effective. This delay also complicates medical care and legal accountability for those harmed by asbestos exposure.
Prevention
Although the use of asbestos has taken a significant decline over the years, it is still present in many older buildings, sites, and products. Understanding the effects of asbestos exposure is key to ensuring your overall health and safety. Proper identification, handling, and removal by trained professionals are essential to prevent exposure. Awareness of occupational history and early medical monitoring are critical for individuals who may have been exposed.
How KAASS LAW Can Help
Diseases caused by asbestos exposure are preventable, yet they continue to impact numerous individuals and families decades after the initial exposure happened. What makes asbestos-related diseases particularly devastating is their extended latency period. Symptoms may not appear until decades after exposure, leaving individuals unaware of the serious health risks they carry. By the time a diagnosis is made, the disease may already be advanced, limiting treatment options and significantly affecting quality of life. These delayed diagnoses also place emotional and financial pressure on patients and their families, who are often left facing complex medical decisions and unsure futures.
The severe health effects associated with asbestos emphasize the importance of awareness, prevention, early detection, and responsibility. Understanding how asbestos exposure occurs and identifying the symptoms of related diseases can help individuals seek timely medical care and protect their rights.
KAASS LAW is committed to protecting individuals and families affected by asbestos-related diseases. Our experienced attorneys understand the complex medical, occupational, and legal issues involved in asbestos exposure cases. We work to identify responsible parties, investigate exposure histories, and pursue accountability for companies and entities that failed to protect workers and the public.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, KAASS LAW can help you explore your legal options. Our team is dedicated to seeking justice, compensation, and peace of mind for those harmed by preventable asbestos exposure. Contact KAASS LAW today to learn how we can assist you during this difficult time.