White Collar Workers Also at Risk for Asbestos Exposure:
Traditionally we've seen diagnoses of mesothelioma, and other asbestos-related diseases like lung cancer, asbestosis and pleural thickening being the result of occupational exposure in industries such as construction, manufacturing, shipbuilding and the military. But increasingly we are seeing people who have worked in hospitals, schools and office buildings who are also suffering from asbestos-related illnesses.It's proven that people who worked with asbestos are at-risk for cancer after years of exposure to the known carcinogen, but the faces of people at risk for asbestos-related cancers are changing. Now, it seems that people who never knew they worked in or near asbestos are being diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer or another asbestos-related illness.
The Changing Face of Asbestos Exposure
In the United Kingdom, lawyers report they still see claims from people who worked in traditional heavy industry areas like shipbuilding, manufacturing, and construction. But they are also now seeing an increase in people exposed in other ways. These include:
- Those who experienced second-hand exposure when a family member worked with or near asbestos and may have brought home asbestos fibers on their clothes and belongings.
- People who worked in offices that underwent renovations.
- People who worked in hospitals and schools, often older buildings, in disrepair and more likely to undergo renovations.
We also see the same trend in the United States.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
People with direct, prolonged exposure to asbestos are still those most likely to develop chronic health conditions. But if you have a close family member who worked in or near asbestos or if you worked in an older building that may have been in disrepair or undergone renovations, you should be aware of possible symptoms of mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. Symptoms can include:
- Shortness of breath
- Chronic coughing
- Exhaustion
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chest pain
If you have any of these symptoms and possible asbestos exposure in your past, you should see your doctor immediately.
Hire the Skilled Attorneys at Madeksho Law
If you or someone you love are suffering from mesothelioma or another chronic asbestos-related condition, you may be entitled to compensation. But you don’t have to figure this out alone. The experienced asbestos litigation lawyers at the Madeksho Law Firm have been helping victims of asbestos exposure since 1972. Your consultation is free, and there is never a charge unless we recover compensation on your behalf. Call us at 888-910-6376 or contact us online and see how we may be able to help you.
