Causes
Approximately 80% of all mesothelioma patients have a history of asbestos exposure. The majority of these patients were employed in an industry that involved the use of asbestos in some fashion. In addition to occupational exposure, household exposure of family members is not uncommon. An exposed individual can carry the asbestos particles on their clothing, skin, and in their hair when they return home, resulting in para-occupational exposure. Even brief exposure to asbestos, as little as one to two months, can result in long term consequences. Although the dangers of asbestos have been known for decades, the long latency period of mesothelioma (30 to 40 years) means that the majority of patients were already exposed as far back as the 1950’s. It is estimated that up to eight million Americans have already been exposed. Several industries, in particular, show a higher incidence of asbestos exposure:
- Insulators
- Boilermakers
- Ship-fitters
- Steel Workers
- Maintenance Workers
- Plumbers
- Brake Mechanics
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