It is no longer a secret that asbestos often causes fatalities for individuals who are exposed to the dangerous fibers. Recent research conducted by the EWG Action Fund reveals that roughly 15,000 deaths related to asbestos exposure are reported annually across the country. Dr. Richard Lemen, who was the Surgeon General during former President Clinton’s administration, has expressed that even though these numbers are staggering, this estimate may very well be too low. Asbestos exposure leads to many health concerns such as mesothelioma and asbestosis, but a relationship has also been found between asbestos and cancers of the lung, larynx, stomach, and ovaries.
The enticing qualities of asbestos such as its heat, fire, and chemical resistance; as well as its inability to conduct electricity, have led to high usage of the substance in the past by many industries. Although asbestos has some valuable industrial qualities, it severely compromises the health of workers who come in contact with the toxic substance. Once airborne, the fibers become trapped in a worker’s lungs and are not detected for many years. The grueling health issues commonly associated with asbestos exposure are shortness of breath caused by scarring of the lungs which results in life-threatening cancers developing in the lungs, chest cavity, or abdomen.
With the abundance of health risks associated with asbestos, it is hard to believe that the substance is still legal in the United States. Despite the risks, since 2006 millions of pounds of asbestos and asbestos filled products continue to be imported into our country. A researcher for the EWG Action Fund argues that in order to decrease the amount of asbestos-related fatalities, the dangerous substance must be banned. Sadly, Congress is not taking any action to ban the substance, but conversely is devising legislation to make it even more difficult for victims to receive compensation for injuries caused by asbestos exposure.
Proposed clauses in the new legislation gives asbestos companies the right to an asbestos victim’s personal information and past health history. Moreover, this creates copious amounts of paperwork, not to mention the additional hurdles a victim suffering from an asbestos-related disease will have to overcome in order to receive compensation they deserve. New Jersey asbestos lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler have the extensive knowledge it takes to fight for the compensation to which asbestos victims are entitled.
If you have been injured or lost a family member due to asbestos exposure, the New Jersey asbestos lawyers at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown, & Sandler understand the difficulties you are facing. With offices located in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania we service clients throughout New Jersey and Philadelphia. Call us toll free at 1-800-369-0899 or contact us online to review the details of your case.
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