No level of asbestos exposure is believed to be safe, but how long the exposure lasts can have a profound influence on the risk of falling ill. A new study finally uncovered evidence and data to support the long-held hypothesis that the length of time a person is employed in an asbestos-related field is directly related to a person’s chance of developing cancer. Mesothelioma is an especially fatal form of cancer that is caused by asbestos, and it continues to affect Ohio workers.
SPISAL, the research group that fronted the investigation, focuses on safety and health in the workplace. International scientists looked through public data that followed the health and well-being of individuals who had previously worked in asbestos-related fields. They focused on a period of time that spanned two decades and kept their subjects limited to individuals who had either taken early retirement or were eligible to do so because of exposure to asbestos while at work.
The highest risk of developing mesothelioma fell with those who had worked in the industry for the longest period of time. Lung cancer rates also increased the longer an individual had worked in asbestos industries. Aside from these conclusions, scientists advise that the takeaway from this study should be for individuals who have worked in any asbestos-related fields to be monitored early and regularly for signs of cancer.
Workers who have been exposed to asbestos can help stay proactive by familiarizing themselves with the symptoms of mesothelioma and lung cancer. Getting the right diagnosis as early on as possible can be helpful when treating serious forms of cancer. Similarly, victims in Ohio who develop devastating illnesses from asbestos exposure in the workplace can typically achieve compensation for their injuries when they take civil action in a timely manner.
Source: benzinga.com, “New Study Supports Link Between Length of Occupational Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Risk, According to Surviving Mesothelioma“, March 12, 2016
