What you need to know about Asbestos and Mesothelioma
Asbestos is a group of naturally forming fibrous minerals that have long been used in a wide variety of building materials and even some consumer goods due to their durability and strong resistance to heat. Unfortunately, it wasn’t until the late 1970s that the general public became aware that exposure to asbestos puts people at an increased risk of mesothelioma and other cancers.
What Kinds of Products Use Asbestos?
Asbestos was in wide use from the 1930s until the 1970s, and can be found in a variety of products, including: Roofing, Flooring, Insulation, Drywall, paint, cement, sealant, rubber, asphalt, plastic, textiles, fireproof products, and auto parts.
How Are People Exposed to Asbestos?
Most people exposed to asbestos either work in industries that use asbestos, or live or work in buildings containing asbestos. The asbestos is breathed in through the air or carried to new areas by collecting on clothing.
People can also be exposed to asbestos by consuming food and drink that have been contaminated with asbestos – for example, drinking water that flowed through a pipe made of asbestos concrete.
Finally, asbestos is often mined near talc, so consumer goods such as cosmetics or feminine hygiene products that use talcum powder may also have been contaminated with asbestos.
* Cases may be referred to another attorney or law firm.
