If you or your loved ones have been exposed to asbestos recently, you might be worried about contracting the diseases linked to asbestos exposure, including mesothelioma.
While this disease is one of the most aggressive cancers associated with asbestos exposure, the myths around it might be causing false hopes of safety.
It’s important to learn what’s true about asbestos exposure and how it links to mesothelioma so you can effectively protect yourself and your family. Here are some demystified myths and misconceptions about mesothelioma and asbestos exposure that you must learn about.
Myth #1: Asbestos Is Partially Banned in the United States
While the U.S. government has been pressured over the years to enact a total ban on all asbestos products, the full ban was only passed recently, in March 2024. Before that, U.S. citizens were still exposed to the danger of exposure as some products that contained asbestos, such as automobile components and building materials, remained legal.
If you’re part of the population that still believed asbestos was only partially banned, it’s best to know there have been some positive changes that will keep everyone safer. However, it’s still important to maintain high levels of care as some legal products until March 2024 could still find their way into the citizen communities.
Myth #2: Taking Legal Action Is a Waste of Time
Many mesothelioma patients who deserve compensation drag their feet when required to take legal action against the companies they worked for during the asbestos exposure. While many legal processes tend to take some months or even longer, mesothelioma patients suffering from poor health can request an expedited case.
If a patient gets a good attorney, such as a renowned mesothelioma attorney Missouri, they can expedite their cases so they’re compensated much faster. With the right evidence, such as a written notice from the doctor stating asbestos caused the current health condition, patients can win an expedited hearing and solve their case.
Myth #3: Only Those Working Directly With Asbestos Can Develop Mesothelioma
While direct asbestos exposure is a big risk, indirectly handling the material can equally expose one to the primary dangers of asbestos exposure. This is because there are no safe levels of asbestos exposure, and even a tiny fiber can expose someone to the risk of mesothelioma. Indirect exposure can take any form, including interacting with someone who works with asbestos or handling a product with traces of asbestos fibers.
Asbestos fibers in the air can also cause as much harm as they would in a factory setup. If you live in a country where the product isn’t completely banned, you should take caution of the asbestos products and factories near you.
Myth #4: A Mask Is All You Need
While wearing a respirator mask is important for removing asbestos, care should be taken to keep everyone safe. Asbestos fibers can remain in the air for hours, and only putting on a mask during the removal exercise can be a risk. Having a mask on is not enough, especially if you’re not trained and licensed to remove asbestos-containing materials. Consider hiring professional asbestos removers who understand the precautionary measures that must be taken to remove the material safely.
Knowing the facts about asbestos is an important step to safely handling any asbestos exposure risk you might face. Understanding the existing myths allows you to protect yourself and your family with minimal strain.
