Mesothelioma and Asbestos

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Mesothelioma and  Asbestos :


Beginning early in the last century, American industry began to exploit the uses of asbestos, called by some the “miracle mineral.” By the time usage peaked in the 70’s, asbestos was used virtually everywhere in our modern environment -- in a wide variety of occupational settings; many materials used in constructing our homes, schools and other buildings; and all kinds of commercial and consumer products, right down to toasters and blow dryers.

As a result, millions of Americans were exposed to asbestos. Asbestos was known to be dangerous by the 30’s and 40’s; and by the 60’s the fact that it caused mesothelioma, an aggressive cancer of the linings of the lungs, heart or stomach, was well-established medically. Yet for the most part there were no warnings, and certainly not adequate safety precautions.

Contrary to what many people think, the problem did not go away in the 70’s. Instead, the incidence of mesothelioma has been increasing. The incidence increased all through the 90’s, and currently about 3,000 Americans per year die from the disease. Experts believe the incidence may continue to increase for another 20 years. This is certainly due to the long latency of the disease; it may also result from the fact that with so much asbestos now in our modern environment, exposures are continuing to occur.