Asbestos - A Hazardous Substance
Asbestos has been known for its dangerous effects for more than sixty years. However, this hazardous substance is still being used and produced by many companies up till now. Those who are constantly being exposed to asbestos are usually employees who work on construction sites. They are generally the ones who are vulnerable to constant exposure of asbestos, if proper safety precautions are not taken seriously.
Asbestos related cancers such as mesothelioma, lung cancer and asbestosis are difficult to detect as these diseases are not only rare but they often do not progress rapidly after the first exposure. They are often mistakenly diagnosed as pneumonia, a common cold or other ailments and are only diagnosed after they have progressed into their later stages, when they are rarely curable.
The tiny fibres in asbestos are so dangerous to the human body, it can cause various critical health problems; not only to those who are working in the asbestos industries but also to their family members, as asbestos generally clings to skin, hair as well as clothes that they are wearing. While these diseases can be caused by other factors, they are largely being linked by the exposure of asbestos.
One needs to be aware that most mesothelioma cases are caused by prolonged exposure to asbestos. Mesothelioma cancer will then develop in the tissues covering the lungs or the abdomen of a once healthy person. The deadly part is that the disease can still be detected on a person even after 30 years after exposure, without the person knowing about it.
Some of the signs and symptoms of mesothelioma include lumps in the abdomen, unexplained weight loss, shortness of breath or trouble breathing as well as pain and swelling under the ribs. However, appropriate treatment methods can still save a person who has already been exposed to asbestos that causes mesothelioma, if it is detected early. Depending on the stage of severity of the disease, a surgical removal of the tumour is needed as well as treatment of radiotherapy and chemotherapy in order to increase the chances of a patient's survival, also the claimant can potentially claim mesothelioma compensation if he /she can attribute the illness to an asbestos.
It is advisable for employees to take extra precautions to protect themselves against asbestos exposure. Taking responsibility for one's health can help minimize the risk of developing cancer, not only to yourself but your loved ones as well.
Article Source: HealthSnare.com
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David Saltonstall
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Date: Mon, 4 May 2009 Time: 11:57 AM
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