Asbestos is the name given to a number of naturally occurring fibrous silicate materials used in the 20th century for thermal insulation, fire proofing, electrical insulation, building materials, brake linings and numerous other industries. Asbestos has been identified as hazardous because of microscopic fibers that may be inhaled into the lungs causing significant health problems. It is estimated by the U.S. Department of Labor that approximately 1.3 million employees in construction and general industry face significant asbestos exposure daily while on the job.

Cancer is a major concern for those who have been exposed to asbestos. Inhalation can cause both lung cancer and mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a cancer of the outer lining of the lung and chest cavity and the lining of the abdominal wall. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause for developing mesothelmia. There are approximately 3000 new cases of mesothelmia reported each year, mainly in men over the age of 40. There is a latency period of 15 to 30 years for developing mesothelmia. Even if you stopped working with asbestos as much as 30 years ago, you may be developing mesothelmia now.

Another lung disease linked to exposure to asbestos is called asbestosis. People who develop asbestosis usually inhaled the fibers that become trapped inside the lungs. After inhalation the body will try to dissolve the fibers by producing an acid which does little to dissolve the fiber but may cause scarring around the surrounding tissue. Eventually, this scarring can become so severe it will cause the lung to not function. The latency period for developing asbestosis can be 25-40 years.

Asbestos has been proven to be a health hazard and is an especially serious concern for those working in the construction industry. If you or a loved one think you have been exposed to this hazardous material please contact an attorney who specializes in asbestos exposure cases.