A risk factor is something that increases a person’s likelihood of developing a disease. Smoking is a risk factor for lung cancer. Excessive sun exposure is a risk factor for skin cancer. And for mesothelioma, asbestos exposure is the primary and almost exclusive risk factor.
This risk increases for people exposed to high levels of asbestos as well as for people exposed over an extended length of time. However, evidence indicates that even people exposed for brief periods – months or even weeks – may be at risk of developing mesothelioma. The fact is, there is no known safe level of asbestos exposure.
People at greatest risk of asbestos exposure are those working with asbestos containing materials or living near locations where asbestos is mined, manufactured into products, or disturbed through building renovation, demolition, or deterioration. Spouses and families of asbestos workers may also be at risk of exposure through asbestos fibers carried home on clothing, hair, and skin. Although government regulation of asbestos has now greatly curtailed public exposure, anyone with a past history of asbestos exposure may be at risk of developing mesothelioma.
If you or someone you love has developed mesothelioma as a result of past asbestos exposure, you have legal rights and options. Contact our asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers for a free review of your case.
