After a recent steam pipe explosion in New York City, residents are concerned about potential exposure to asbestos after county workers confirmed the deadly carcinogen’s presence. Research has shown that a single exposure to asbestos could cause the deadly cancer, mesothelioma.
About Mesothelioma
There are different forms of mesothelioma. The most common form of mesothelioma is pleural mesothelioma. This cancer develops in the lining of the lungs. Also, it accounts for around 75% of all mesothelioma cases. Symptoms of pleural mesothelioma often affect breathing and the thoracic cavity(chest), and they can often be taken for problems related to other diseases, such as pneumonia, flu, or even lung cancer.
Exposure to asbestos is the number one risk factor for pleural mesothelioma. Studies have linked pleural mesothelioma to high levels of the carcinogen in the workplace. With bundles of tiny fibers, asbestos is a group of minerals found in soil and rocks. However, something disturbs asbestos fibers they can become airborne and embed in the lungs. Fibers that stay in the lungs can travel to the ends of the small airways and enter the pleural lining of the lung and chest wall. These fibers can then injure the cells of the pleura and cause mesothelioma. Asbestos fibers can also damage cells of the lung and result in scar tissue in the lung and even lung cancer.
Most products stopped asbestos use decades ago, however, it only takes one exposure to develop mesothelioma. The workplaces at risk the most are miners, factory workers, insulation manufacturers and installers, railroad and automotive workers, ship builders, gas mask manufacturers, plumbers, and construction workers. Workers exposed family members by carrying the deadly fibers home on clothing.
Asbestos in NYC Streets
In NYC, extreme underground pressure caused a steam pipe to explode. This pushed up the street and left a large crater. Since the pipe was decades old, asbestos was a concern. Steam pipes used to be the main system for providing wide-spread heating. Also, manufacturers used asbestos as pipe insulation until the 1970s. Unless the pipes burst, the asbestos-ridden pipes are not hazardous. But, when an explosion happens, the asbestos becomes airborne. The fibers are odorless and invisible to the naked eye, therefore impossible to recognize.
Since that happened in NYC, the city immediately evacuated dozens of surrounding buildings. Then, city workers started the decontamination process. People had to remove, bag clothing, shower and relinquish the contaminated clothing. The evacuation happened without warning, and while residents appreciate the effort many are still nervous. Did this explosion expose them to asbestos which will develop into mesothelioma a decade from now? This is how quickly someone can become exposed.
Get Help with a Specialized Complex Litigation Attorney
If you develop mesothelioma, seek the counsel of a complex litigation attorney. A complex litigation attorney like those found at The Michael Brady Lynch Firm is critical when seeking help to cover your asbestos-related expenses. Identifying when and where you were exposed to asbestos is crucial to your lawsuit. Experienced lawyers are familiar with companies that used the deadly material and know which job sites had a significant amount of asbestos use. Also, they know which products contained high concentrations of the toxic mineral.
Also, consultations are completely free, confidential and have no obligation. The Michael Brady Lynch Firm has successfully represented thousands of consumers and recovered millions of dollars for their clients. Our team of attorneys has been recognized as some of the most experienced and successful in the country. Our award-winning staff is also sought after for our knowledge on complex litigation, scientific evidence development, negotiation strategies and trial tactics.
Most of all, our law office is resourceful and dedicated to pursuing any compensation you are due. Because of this, we have also received a high degree of peer recognition and professional achievement, such as inclusion on numerous Plaintiff Steering Committees. In fact, we will take whatever legal measures are necessary when fighting for your rights to damages.