Mesothelioma, the asbestos-related cancer, often takes decades to fully develop. Due to this slow process, patients may have a difficult time identifying their asbestos exposure. Identifying where a patient was exposed and their asbestos exposure history is important for those seeking justice and compensation.
In the early to late 1900s, there were many job fields that used asbestos to build and develop buildings, bridges, transportation, and other elements of infrastructure. Due to its fire-resistant properties, asbestos was widely used. This was until researchers found a link between asbestos and certain diseases.
Despite the regulation of asbestos, there are still older buildings that contain asbestos-related materials. However, there are standards in place to prevent the risk of asbestos exposure, including standards from the United States Environmental Protection Agency and the Occupational Safety & Health Administration.
It might be easier to identify a patient’s exposure history for the individuals who worked in high-risk jobs. This is because occupational asbestos exposure is the most common way to develop mesothelioma. Those exposed to occupational asbestos have a higher risk of developing an asbestos-related disease due to long-term exposure. Those at high risk for asbestos exposure include:
However, it is important to note that a patient can also obtain asbestos-related diseases second-hand. This tends to happen to those who live with someone in a field that deals with asbestos. An individual could develop asbestos-related diseases second-hand if they handled the clothing of those exposed occupationally or ride in a car filled with asbestos dust.
Fortunately, there are helpful internet resources for mesothelioma patients to identify where they obtained their asbestos exposure. There is a database on Mesothelioma Guide’s website that allows patients to find a list of known asbestos exposure locations. This can help identify locations and rule other locations out. This information is helpful for those looking to seek compensation.
A patient identifying where they obtained their disease is essential to the success of their case. Unfortunately, dealing with cancer leads to financial concerns. This is due to several reasons, including medical bills and an inability to obtain wages. Identifying the location of the exposure leads to a higher likelihood of obtaining compensation to cover both economic and noneconomic losses. Those dealing with an asbestos-related disease should contact an asbestos lawyer immediately.
If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma, contact a Pennsylvania asbestos lawyer at Brookman, Rosenberg, Brown & Sandler. Our lawyers show compassion throughout this difficult legal process. If you are interested in talking to an asbestos lawyer, contact us online or call us at 215-569-4000 for a free consultation. Located in Philadelphia, we proudly serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey, including Delaware County, Chester County, and Philadelphia County.