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Unions Asbestos Blog

Asbestos is the generic name for six naturally occurring minerals that have been used in commercial products for their strength, flexibility, low electrical conductivity, and resistance to heat and chemicals. Because of these properties, there are a wide variety of commercial asbestos applications:

• electrical wiring and switching components
• fire retardant insulation for buildings  building materials like drywall, joint compound, roofing shingles
• HVAC insulation
• Automotive gaskets and friction materials (brake pads, clutch linings)
• Boiler insulation, pump gaskets and packing materials.

The known risks posed by asbestos exposure to humans have been documented since the early 1900s. The first documented case of asbestosis was in 1924, spurring additional studies that linked asbestos exposure to specific lung diseases.

    Asbestos diseases follow a “dose–response” relationship curve. This means that the more asbestos you inhale (dose), the greater your risk of contracting an asbestos–related disease. For example, if a person worked around asbestos for 5 years and someone else worked in the same job for 15 years and had an equal concentration of exposure, the person with 15 years of asbestos exposure would have a higher cumulative dose and therefore a higher risk of developing an asbestos-related disease.

    Due to the nature of asbestos use, occupational exposure to asbestos occurs more frequently within the trades. Asbestos related diseases have a high latency period; taking from 5-40 years to develop from the initial asbestos exposure. Alerting your doctor to your potential exposure to asbestos will help him or her be on the lookout for the early signs of disease development - leaving you with more options for treatment.
                                   
 The Effects

•  Asbestos diseases are typically the result of the inhalation of asbestos fibers; the effects of which might not be diagnosed until years, or decades, after the exposure to asbestos occurs. The most common diseases associated with asbestos exposure are:

• Asbestosis and asbestos pleural disease - Both result in the inflamation and scarring of the lungs. While not typically fatal, reduced lung capacity will result due to internal scarring of the lungs and the loss of elasticity from pleural thickening.

• Asbestos lung cancer- Develops in the lining of the bronchi, the trachea, bronchiole, or alveoli. Although lung cancer usually develops slowly, cancer cells can break away and spread to other parts of the body. Smoking combined with asbestos exposure significantly increases the chances for developing lung cancer.

• Mesothelioma - A fast acting and almost certainly fatal cancer linked directly to asbestos exposure. The tumor encases the lung as it grows along the pleura, the lining of the chest and abdominal cavity, causing difficulty with breathing and compromising lung function.

Your Options

    If you are diagnosed with an asbestos related disease, your options will be dependent upon the severity of your disease.  For further information about medical treatment options, visit the following:

Asbestosis Treatment

Mesothelioma Treatment          
   
    

Founded in 1999, the Simmons firm is a leading national law firm in the fight against mesothelioma and other cases of corporate wrongdoing. Our attorneys have extensive experience in asbestos litigation and have represented thousands of individuals and families throughout the country.

The Simmons firm stands on a strong foundation of values and a track record of success. With more than 10 years of service to our clients and our communities, we have a dedicated staff of over 200 people that are ready to give you the attention and respect you deserve.

We believe victims of mesothelioma and asbestos exposure deserve a voice in the American legal system. Through no fault of your own, you or someone you love has been harmed, and we are committed to helping you stand up for your rights.

We are passionate about improving the lives of victims of mesothelioma and asbestos-related illnesses – and their families – by fighting for their interests and supporting the search for better treatment and a cure. This is our common cause.

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