How to Avoid Mesothelioma cancer in the Workplace
The effects of asbestos on employees are well documented Mesothelioma cancer in the Workplace. Asbestos is a mining and industrial by-product that is widely found in the air, water, and workplace. Since its discovery in the early 1900s, the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos have become increasingly apparent. In fact, asbestosis, a disease caused by exposure to asbestos fibers, has become one of the most prevalent long-term diseases caused by work in jobs where asbestos is present.
If you are reading this then you are probably one of the tens of millions of Americans who work in an industry where asbestos is present. It may be hard to believe but over 25% of all employees in the U.S. work in industries that produce or process asbestos. This percentage rises drastically among working professionals such as doctors, dentists, construction workers, and lawyers.
What Are the Risks of Working with Asbestos?
The main health risks associated with working with asbestos are cancer and asbestosis. There are many other health risks as well such as a lowered immune system, an increased risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Although the risks are significant, the chance of getting cancer is extremely rare. Asbestosis is a condition caused by exposure to asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is incredibly common among workers in industries that use asbestos. However, asbestosis does not occur in people who are completely healthy.
People with a Beacon- Livingston score of 50 or higher are at risk of developing asbestosis. There are several risk factors that can increase the chances of developing asbestosis. These include: – Age – Anyone over the age of 50 is at an increased risk of developing asbestosis. – Smoking – Both asbestos cigarettes and asbestos-containing fills are associated with an increased risk of developing asbestosis. – Fatty Liver – A precursor to asbestosis. – Exposure to Other Fibers – Exposure to other fibers such as copper, lead, and silver is a significant risk factor.
What Are the Risks of Breathing in Asbestos Dust?
Asbestos dust contains fibers that can cause asbestosis if breathed in. Asbestosis is a rare disease that mainly affects people over the age of 50. People younger than 50 are not thought to be at risk of developing asbestosis from breathing in asbestos fibers. However, younger people should be cautious when breathing in large amounts of asbestos dust since it can cause a condition called fibrosis, or scarring, in the lungs.
How Dangerous is Asbestos Dust?
As best ovulid is the technical term for the sticky, glue-like substance that fills the air passages in the lungs. This is the substance that causes fibrosis and alveolar macrophage inflammation (a condition that can damage your lungs) when breathed in large amounts of dust. This type of dust is not only heavy but also very hard to remove.
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Should You Work in an Industry Where Asbestos Is Found?
Studies have shown that levels of exposure to asbestos in the workplace are very low. The chances of developing mesothelioma are very low even in workers who are exposed to high levels of asbestos. However, some experts recommend that workers in industries where asbestos is found wear appropriate protective clothing and gloves when in rooms where the mineral is present.
How to Avoid Getting Mesothelioma Cancer at Work
There are a number of factors that workers can do to reduce their chances of developing mesothelioma cancer. These include: Wear gloves and apron when handling asbestos materials. Wear gloves when opening new frozen or canned food packages. Wear gloves when handling metal objects like tools, hose, etc. Use a protective mask when handling air elemental pollution like dust, fumes, etc. Use a dust mask when working with asbestos. Follow the OSHA guidelines on safe exposure to asbestos. Keep your larynx, mouth, and accessory breathing passages clean. Maintain a healthy weight. Get enough exercise every day. Change your diet regularly. Drink plenty of water.
Conclusion
Mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the lining of the colon, stomach, liver, and small intestine. While it is rare, it is one of the most serious forms of asbestos cancer. The good news is that there are a number of ways to reduce your risk of developing Mesothelioma cancer in the Workplace. These include wearing gloves when handling asbestos, maintaining a healthy weight, getting enough exercise, changing your diet regularly, and getting enough sleep. If you are reading this then you are probably one of the tens of millions of Americans who work in an industry where asbestos is present. It may be hard to believe but over 25% of all employees in the U.S. work in industries that produce or process asbestos.