The dangers of asbestos have been widely known for a long time. Because it can break down into tiny threads that the naked eye cannot observe, asbestos poses an enigma to health. The fibers may float throughout the air for days and inhale while floating in the air. They are excellent and can be absorbed deeply into the lung and possibly get stuck there. Once they are in the lung tissue, the fibers could cause serious diseases.
Asbestos fibers of all kinds can be harmful when inhaled. Essential factors in developing asbestos-related diseases are the type of asbestos inhaled, the extent of exposure, the duration since exposure, and the individual’s sensitivity.
Cancers and Their Link to Asbestos Exposure
Any amount of asbestos must be handled in a manner that does not provide adequate security. The fatal asbestos-related disease does not occur in everyone exposed to the substance. However, exposure to asbestos increases the risk of suffering from an asbestos-related disease. The cancers associated with asbestos exposure are listed in this article.
1. Mesothelioma
The most common ailment that is caused by asbestos exposure is mesothelioma. The rare type of cancer may threaten the membrane that lines the abdomen cavity. It can also affect the membrane covering the chest and lungs and the surrounding membranes of other organs.
Unfortunately, it can take between 30 and 40 years following asbestos exposure before symptoms begin to appear. Trouble breathing, dry or wheezing cough, swelling around the lungs, fatigue and respiratory problems are all signs related to the cause of mesothelioma exposure.
2. Lung Cancer
Asbestos exposure can also trigger lung cancer, a condition that manifests through the development of malignant tumors that invade and block the lung’s airways. The chance of developing lung cancer caused by asbestos is significantly increased when nicotine is used with asbestos exposure.
As with mesothelioma, lung cancer is often diagnosed long after exposure to the first. In most cases, it could take anywhere from 15 to 20 years. Pain or discomfort in the chest or breathing difficulties, a chronic cough, coughing up blood, or frequent respiratory infections are just a few signs. For legal claims for damages, an asbestos attorney in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, can represent you in court to ensure that your rights are protected in all stages of the proceeding.
3. Laryngeal Cancer
The larynx is a muscular organ that acts as an airway for air to enter the lung. Research has shown that the chance of developing larynx cancer is higher by 40% in those exposed to asbestos than in those who are not.
Laryngeal cancer is a risk that was tripled or doubled for those working in high-exposure fields like construction, textiles, and mining. The symptoms can include a hoarse voice, a swelling or lump in the neck, a sore throat, and difficulties swallowing.
4. Ovarian Cancer
Each year, it is reported that more than 22,000 women have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Because of the possibility of asbestos fibers inhaled or consumed to enter the ovaries, the risk of developing ovarian cancer is higher for women working in jobs or environments where asbestos exposure is likely.
Pelvic pain or abdomen and bloating, the requirement to urinate often, pain when sexing, pain in the back, or extremity fatigue could all be indicators of a health issue. For legal representation, you can type in “asbestos litigation attorney in Baton Rouge, Louisiana” on your search bar for the best results available.
5. Bile Duct Cancer
Researchers from 2009 found that asbestos exposure, whether at work or home, increased the risk of developing bile duct cancer. The gallbladder is relative to the liver and small intestine through bile ducts. They supply digestive enzymes that aid in breaking down food items. These tiny tubules can hold asbestos fibers.
Liver cancer that starts in the liver’s bile ducts is known as intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. 40% of ICC patients mentioned asbestos exposure as their primary risk factor in a study published in 2020. The rate of fatalities and incidence with ICC are increasing. The reason for this may be an underlying cause that is related to asbestos.