Blog
- Understanding the different types of asbestos and risks involved
May 6, 2019
You may have discussed asbestos on one or more occasions, especially in relation to the many factories, old buildings, railroads and shipyards in Pittsburgh. The dangers of asbestos are well known, and studies show there is no safe amount of exposure. This is why laws and regulations regarding asbestos removal or health risks in the workplace are so stringent. Your employer is legally obligated to inform you of any known risk on the job or...Read More - Loose asbestos is a known carcinogen
Apr 29, 2019
Most people know that asbestos is dangerous. It’s a naturally occurring mineral, and it’s used in thousands of products, but it’s most dangerous when loose in the air. People who are around loose asbestos may breathe it in, and that can lead to scarring in the lungs. If they swallow the asbestos fibers, they can suffer scarring in the esophagus or other areas of the abdomen. Did you know that asbestos exposure is the only...Read More - How does asbestos enter the body?
Apr 24, 2019
Whether you’re a life-long Pittsburgher or a “transplant,” as the colloquial term expresses it, if you work in certain areas of this city or surrounding Pennsylvania regions, you may be at risk for numerous adverse health conditions because of asbestos. It’s impossible to know if you are in a building or room that contains asbestos if you’re judging by what you see. That’s because it is microscopic. There are specific tests to do to check...Read More - Know the 3 kinds of mesothelioma
Apr 23, 2019
Mesothelioma is perhaps best described as a malignant tumor (cancerous) within the body. While it’s assumed only to affect the lungs, it actually has the potential to affect the torso throughout. Asbestos can get into the body through breathing in fibers or by swallowing them. Every year, there are approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma recorded by medical providers. These are usually linked to companies that have allowed their employees to come into contact with...Read More - Understanding pleural effusion
Apr 18, 2019
Asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral, is not always dangerous to humans. However, when it’s breathed into the lungs or enters the stomach lining, it can embed itself, cause scarring and lead to cancer. There are many different diseases people may suffer as a result of exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma and asbestosis are two, but others include lung cancer, diffuse plural thickening and pleural effusion. Of these, pleural effusion is probably one of the least discussed...Read More - Asbestos: Be aware of where you might find it in Pittsburgh
Apr 12, 2019
You can’t see something that is microscopic, that is, unless you have a microscope on hand. Danger often lurks in Pittsburgh and other Pennsylvania cities because of microscopic asbestos fibers that exist in many homes, schools, commercial buildings and other locations. Exposure can cause terminal illness, and it is nearly impossible for you to know if you are in an area where there’s asbestos. However, there is a higher likelihood in certain places, and it...Read More - Exposure to asbestos in the military can lead to mesothelioma
Apr 10, 2019
Did you know that veterans are at a higher risk of developing mesothelioma than others in the general population? This is the reality for veterans due to their exposure to asbestos on a more regular basis. Today, veterans who develop this cancer can ask for compensation through the Veterans Association. Disability benefits can be awarded if you have an illness caused by coming into contact with asbestos. However, you’ll need to show that: You did...Read More - Medical treatments for injured Pittsburgh workers and families
Apr 5, 2019
If you, your spouse or other loved one receive a dire diagnosis from a licensed physician, it can be quite a daunting experience, especially if the disease in question has no known cure. Beyond your diagnosis, your family would typically have many unanswered questions in mind, such as what type of treatment you will seek and how you will meet the expenses associated with the situation. You might also talk about additional outside support, such...Read More - Asbestos: Once banned but now present in the United States
Apr 2, 2019
If you’re worried about asbestos still being used in America, you’re not alone. Many people were under the impression that asbestos was no longer legal. However, it is, and since that’s the case, the best thing you can do for yourself is to find out where asbestos is used and how to avoid it. Asbestos has long been used in insulation since it has properties that keep structures comfortable. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned...Read More - What is peritoneal mesothelioma?
Mar 27, 2019
Mesothelioma, an aggressive form of cancer, can affect the lungs, abdomen or heart. While most people discuss how it affects a person’s breathing, it can also take a toll on other organs, specifically the abdomen and heart. Called peritoneal mesothelioma, this form of mesothelioma develops in the peritoneum, which is the lining of the abdomen. It is caused by ingesting asbestos fibers instead of breathing them in. Sometimes, the cancer develops as the fibers cause...Read More