Think Asbestos is An Issue of the Past: Think Again

Asbestos is the cause of mesothelioma, one of the deadliest cancers around. In the late 70’s asbestos was largely banned but unfortunately products already being produced were not recalled and asbestos still lingers in many people’s homes walls and office buildings. The following is a brief recap of how asbestos and mesothelioma can affect you today.

If you live in an older home and are planning on tearing down walls in efforts of remodeling, it is encouraged you hire a professional to inspect your home first. By stirring up asbestos, you open the possibility of asbestos particles entering the ventilation system, which can affect everyone in the house.

One such recent case was on a Scientology cruise ship that has entertained the elite of the religion, including Tom Cruise. It turns out that the ship not only contained a dangerous amount of asbestos but the ship captain knew about it.
This same sort of thing applies to office buildings. In New York City, for example, thousands of people were exposed to asbestos when the world trade center collapsed. The entire city was filled with a cloud of dust, and to varying degrees, asbestos.

Hurricane Katrina was another huge disaster that contaminated many areas with asbestos. Even in parts of Illinois around Lake Michigan (Chicago area) residents have been warned about asbestos exposure at the beaches.

Cancer from this exposure is rare but very possible and mesothelioma treatment is best when found early, so it’s suggested if you suspect exposure has happened, to see a doctor immediately. It should be noted, though, that if you are exposed it may take 10-15 years to appear so stay on your toes.

Studies have recently shown that talc can cause a cancer similar to mesothelioma as well. Just like asbestos, it can cause mini cuts in your lungs or in the case of females, the ovaries. This is big news as everyday products contain talc such as baby powder, make-up and hundreds of other products. Many people use baby powder to stay fresh where the sun does not shine but based on the studies, it seems this can be a very bad thing, especially for women.

So the moral of the story is that you should stay up-to-date on the causes and risks of asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. If you should discover exposure of any kind, than see a doctor and more than likely you will be ok.

Find more about mesothelioma.