March 28, 2012 – A study in the European Respiratory Journal reported that men under the age of 20 who are exposed to asbestos are more likely than an older person to develop malignant mesothelioma. The study also disclosed that the level of danger in developing an asbestos-related cancer continued to rise until approximately thirty years after the person’s exposure to asbestos had ended. Unfortunately, it can take many years for the disease to become evident and symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath and restricted bowel movements are often mistaken for less severe conditions, when in fact, they are often warning signs of cancer.
The European researchers conducted the study with 2,466 males over a twenty year time span, beginning in 1987. The data was collected from various health reports from the French National Mesothelioma Surveillance Program and the French Network of Cancer Registries. The results of this study reinforce the obvious: that young workers need to be trained to take precautions where exposure to asbestos materials is part of their job. Young and inexperienced workers may be uninformed and lack understanding about the occupational hazards associated with exposure to asbestos-related products.
Until asbestos products are completely banned worldwide, knowledge and precautionary actions may be the only way workers handling the deadly material can prevent falling victim to mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases. Employers and workers should attend safety meetings and training on the risks of asbestos and how to avoid exposure. Employees should be skilled in identifying asbestos-laden areas and products in the workplace. It is important that young workers follow workplace protocol and use personal protective equipment and clothing. They should have a thorough understanding of the long-term effects of asbestos exposure to gain a full understanding of the importance of following guidelines. Furthermore, by being educated about the best protective measures to use concerning their workplace clothing, young workers will not inadvertently expose the people they live with to any airborne asbestos materials at the end of their work day.
Philadelphia Asbestos Attorneys at Shein Law Support Asbestos Awareness
The Philadelphia asbestos attorneys at the Shein Law Firm focus their practice on helping mesothelioma victims and their families. As advocates for victims of asbestos exposure, they support asbestos awareness, research and education. If you or a loved one has been harmed by first-hand or second-hand asbestos exposure, contact the Philadelphia offices of Shein Law to discuss how their asbestos attorneys can help you.