Highlighting the Causes of Mesothelioma

Rare and incurable, mesothelioma has only one confirmed cause: exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral made of thin, microscopic fibers with no smell or taste. The fibers are resistant to heat, corrosion, and electricity, properties that made asbestos popular as an insulator in homes, Navy ships, schools, commercial buildings, and hundreds of other applications. 

  • Mesothelioma What is it & What Compensation is Available.

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Asbestos is mined, today mostly in Russia, Canada, and a few small former Soviet countries. It is illegal in many nations. However, it is not banned in the U.S. The use of asbestos in the U.S. has dropped drastically since the 1970s. Today, millions of tons of it are destroyed every year as old buildings are torn down and replaced.

Unfortunately, asbestos is also highly toxic and carcinogenic. When a person inhales the fibers, they become trapped in the body forever, eventually causing inflammation, scarring and, most troubling, genetic damage of body cells. 

This genetic damage is what many experts believe causes mesothelioma tumors to occur.

Occupational Exposure to Asbestos 

Over the years, doctors noticed that mesothelioma patients often had similar types of jobs. While not all mesothelioma cases are work-related, on-the-job asbestos exposure continues to be the most common cause of this type of cancer. It frequently occurs in people whose jobs involve:

  • Mining
  • Military service (we’ve written several articles about mesothelioma and the military)
  • Construction, roofing, and carpentry
  • Installing insulation
  • Working in shipyards
  • Working power plants

Are There Any Other Potential Causes of Mesothelioma?

While asbestos exposure is the only confirmed cause of this cancer, there are several other factors that could play a role in mesothelioma development.

  • Zeolites: Like asbestos, these are tiny, fibrous minerals. They are often found in volcanic ash and have been linked to other types of cancer.
  • Radiation exposure: Some mesothelioma sufferers state that they have never been exposed to asbestos but they instead believe radiation caused the cancer. This has yet to be confirmed.
  • High aspect ratio nanoparticles (HARNs): These particles are known to be harmful to human health, but evidence that it specifically causes mesothelioma is lacking. 

Powerful Advocates for People Who Have Mesothelioma

If you or someone you love has mesothelioma, talk about what you believe caused it with the lawyers of Ted B. Lyon & Associates in Dallas, Texas. You may have a valid legal claim and be entitled to compensation. Find out more during a free attorney consultation with a mesothelioma lawyer. Get yours by calling 877-Ted-Lyon / 877-833-5966 or contact us online anytime.