Asbestos exposure is the only known cause of mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive form of cancer. When asbestos fibers are inhaled or ingested, they can lead to severe health complications, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other diseases.
Additionally, asbestos fibers can adhere to workers’ clothing, shoes, and hair, allowing them to inadvertently carry these dangerous fibers home. This can expose family members and loved ones to asbestos, leading to secondary exposure and, consequently, an increased risk of developing mesothelioma.
What You Should Know About Secondary Asbestos Exposure?
Also referred to as secondhand, domestic, or take-home exposure, secondary asbestos exposure occurs when individuals who have direct contact with asbestos inadvertently carry the fibers into their homes, exposing family members. This type of exposure poses similar health risks to primary exposure and can lead to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma.
Although strict asbestos regulations have reduced primary exposure incidents, legacy asbestos still exists in many older buildings, posing ongoing risks to the families of workers regularly exposed to asbestos.
The primary source of secondary asbestos exposure is when a person exposed to asbestos at work brings home contaminated clothing. Here are additional ways family members may be at risk:
- Direct Contact: Hugging a parent or spouse whose clothes are contaminated with asbestos can lead to inhalation of fibers.
- Laundry Handling: Shaking or dusting off asbestos-contaminated clothing can release fibers into the air, exposing others in the home.
- Ventilation Systems: Asbestos fibers can enter the home’s heating and cooling systems, bypassing most air filters.
- Furniture Contamination: Asbestos fibers can settle on furniture from contaminated clothing, putting other family members at risk if they come into contact with these surfaces.
- Flooring Exposure: Asbestos fibers can settle on carpets or other flooring and become airborne when disturbed by walking or vacuuming.
While secondary exposure may occur at lower concentrations, it can begin at a young age if a parent exposes a child to asbestos through contaminated clothing. The long latency period of asbestos-related diseases means that symptoms may not appear for decades after initial exposure.
What if You Are Diagnosed with Mesothelioma After Secondary Asbestos Exposure?
If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or another asbestos-related disease due to secondary exposure, you may be entitled to financial compensation. These cases can be complex due to the indirect nature of the exposure, making it crucial to consult with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer. They can assess the circumstances of your exposure, determine if negligence was involved, and help you seek compensation.
The Philadelphia Mesothelioma Lawyers at Shein Law Are Here to Help You After a Diagnosis
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, or another asbestos disease, contact the Philadelphia mesothelioma lawyers at Shein Law. We will thoroughly evaluate your case. Call 877-743-4652 or reach out online to schedule a consultation. Our offices are located in Philadelphia and Pennsauken, New Jersey, and we serve clients throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey.