Common Questions answered about Mesothelioma and Toxic Exposure

If you or a loved one was recently diagnosed with mesothelioma, we are sure you have many questions.   Your doctor may tell you that your diagnosis is related to some toxic exposure.  But, when?  Could someone else be responsible for putting you at risk?

There are few answers when it comes to determining how long it takes mesothelioma to develop.  It certainly isn’t an overnight process.  It could be many years.  According to a website dedicated to mesothelioma resources, asbestos is the most common cause of the disease.  A mesothelioma diagnosis may, therefore, be related to many types of employment.

Types of Toxic Exposure related to Mesothelioma

We’ve already provided you with some examples of toxic exposure.  Asbestos was once considered a great product and used in many industries.  This included people working in shipyards, insulation businesses and construction workers.  Unfortunately, it took a number of years to realize that asbestos was causing problems.  Serious ones, like mesothelioma.

You might be surprised to learn of another threat of toxic exposure.  Remember Hurricane Sandy, subsequently renamed to Superstorm Sandy?  The government actually issued a warning to those involved in the clean-up.  Among other things, there were concerns that “… drying out of floodwaters and the clean-up of debris can release hazardous dust into the air, such as asbestos, silica, lead, gypsum, fiberglass, and mold.”

The warning did not mean that restrictions were placed on performing the clean-up.  However, it did call for workers to wear protective clothing and masks.  Whenever possible, ventilation was stressed.  Unfortunately, this does not mean that the risks for toxic exposure were absolutely contained.

Take it a step further.  A 2013 news article revealed that some toxins from Sandy had contaminated the soil in Little Ferry.  Could this mean that local residents were put at risk?  Time will tell.

Although asbestos exposure increases the risk, it is not the sole cause of mesothelioma.   Those who received radiation treatment for cancer may also develop the disease.  Additionally, a virus may be associated with some diagnoses.  The virus is specifically related to contaminated polio vaccines injected decades ago.

Is Your Mesothelioma Diagnosis Related to Toxic Exposure?

Mesothelioma is a difficult diagnosis.  Many victims look for answers to determine if their condition is due to toxic exposure.  This can be a process, as it requires reviewing work history and delving into the past.

At the Law Offices of Anthony Carbone, we have the resources to investigate mesothelioma cases.  Contact us to schedule an appointment.