It is quite common knowledge that asbestos is dangerous to human health and can cause various fatal diseases. Asbestos still exists in many old houses and buildings. As it served as an inexpensive means of insulation, construction companies used it in various buildings. Therefore, it is important to be knowledgeable about this toxin and take preventive measures.
Asbestos fiber can become airborne and enter people’s bodies through inhalation. Negligence about this toxin is becoming common with each passing day. If you are one of many victims of asbestos exposure, toxic exposure in Jersey City can help you recover compensation.
Five things you need to know about asbestos
- It is a naturally occurring mineral.
You may be surprised to learn that the toxin asbestos is not man-made but a naturally occurring mineral. It belongs to a group of fibrous silicate minerals mined throughout North America, Canada, and Southern Africa.
It is made up of needle-like fibers poisonous to human health. Asbestos has an excellent ability to absorb heat. Moreover, it can absorb organic materials like resin and polymers. This is why many manufacturers took advantage of it.
- Many products today still contain asbestos legally.
The material’s ability to resist heat has made it popular in use mainly in the construction industry. It is used as an acoustic and thermal insulator, in fireproofing and building materials. It is also used in various products that people use in Jersey City today. For example, ceiling tiles, adhesives, fire blankets, chalkboards, thermal paper products, electrical wiring insulation, etc.
- Asbestos kills more people than skin cancer.
According to EWG Action Fund’s data, the diseases caused by asbestos kill about 15,000 Americans every year. The deaths are classified into three categories:
- Asbestosis: A condition that causes the lungs to malfunction, making it difficult for the victims to breathe properly.
- Mesothelioma: It is a type of cancer in which the lining of most of your internal organs gets damaged, leading you to death in a few months.
- Other lung cancer: A condition caused due to inhalation of asbestos particles.
- It is not banned in various countries.
As of 2022, 67 countries and union territories have banned the use of asbestos, such as the UK, Canada, New Zealand, most of Europe, Australia, and Japan. However, it is still in use in other nations. Major countries where the dangerous chemical is still very common in use include the US, India, Russia, Brazil, and China. These are also among the top consumers of asbestos.
Asbestos can take your and the lives of your loved ones’. If you believe you have been a victim of asbestos exposure which has led you to experience health issues, contact an attorney today.