There are many important things to know about asbestos, including how significantly asbestos has affected people who have been exposed to it. Did you know that the U.S. is the only western industrial nation that has not banned asbestos? That’s despite the fact that the International Agency for Research on Cancer declared that asbestos is a carcinogen over 40 years ago.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that one in three deaths that result from occupational cancers are believed to be caused by asbestos exposure at work. With asbestos still being used in the U.S., it’s no surprise that many people are still affected by the diseases and illnesses that asbestos can cause.
Are there any alternatives to asbestos?
Yes, there are many materials that could be used to replace asbestos, depending on the requirements of a project. Unfortunately, the chlor-alkali industry still consumes asbestos at around 100% of U.S. consumption each year.
Asbestos is a known carcinogen. That means that it can cause cancer, though it does not always lead to symptoms or the development of a disease or illness. Data has shown, however, that around 40,000 Americans die each year from lung cancer, ovarian cancer, cancer of the larynx, mesothelioma and asbestosis that were linked to asbestos exposure.
What should you do if you develop an asbestos-related disease or illness?
If you develop a condition related to asbestos exposure, your attorney will talk to you about when you may have been exposed and if there is an opportunity for you to seek compensation for the condition you’re living with today.