Occupational Asbestos Risk Raise Mesothelioma Concerns
Asbestos Risk in The Work Place
Chrysotile, also known as white asbestos, used to be the predominant form of asbestos that was used commercially; amphiboles were of minor commercial importance. Asbestos fibers do not have any detectable odor or taste. It does not dissolve in water or evaporate and are resistant to heat, fire, chemical and biological degradation. In terms of building material, it was considered resistant to degradation by salt air, damp and heat - ideal for seaside conditions.
These properties cause the management of environmental asbestos risk to be a highly scientific and expensive effort.
Because of these properties, asbestos has been mined for use in a wide range of manufactured products, mostly in building materials, friction products, and heat-resistant fabrics. Since asbestos exposure had been identified as one of the causes of mesothelioma, all new uses of asbestos have been banned in the United States by the EPA, to lessen occupational asbestos risk.
Asbestos was also the building material of choice close to the sea. Click here to view pictures of asbestos in a seaside holiday destination.
Today, asbestos is heavily regulated and has ceased to exist in all but a few, closely monitored, products and industries. Despite this reduction in usage, a study completed in 1980 by the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), a subsidiary of the Centers for Disease Control’s Prevention (CDC) of the federal Department of Health and Human Services, maintains that there is no safe level of exposure to asbestos fibers.
Because of the difficulties in obtaining good quantitative exposure assessments, cumulative exposure expressed in fiber-years is often selected as the common metric for the levels of exposures reported in epidemiological studies.
Asbestos Risk Management
The Control of Asbestos at Work Regulations (CAWR) requires asbestos to be identified and assessed. Regulation 4 (CAWR 2002) places an explicit duty on the employer in occupation to manage the risks from asbestos in their premises.
The new H.S.E. Regulations, requires the employer, property owner or manager to make an assessment, as to whether asbestos is or liable to be present, internally or externally.
The employer, property owner or manager must then produce a written plan to locate and manage the occupational asbestos risk and to implement the plan in an asbestos management programme.
Click here to read more about Asbestos Risk management
Occupations with Asbestos Risk
If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related condition and are currently, or have ever been employed in the following occupations, you may be entitled to compensation from the parties responsible for your exposure.
- Bricklayers - Carpenters - Cement Finishers - Construction Workers - Electricians - Railroad workers - Engineers - Insulators - Mine workers - Machinists - Dry wall removers - Mechanics - Teachers - Metal Workers - Civil servants - Pipefitters - Renovators - Plumbers - Asbestos mill factory workers - Roofers - Shipyard Workers - Steamfitters - Welders - Wives of the above and of asbestos workers
Security measures to prevent asbestos mesothelioma
The measures taken to prevent take-home contamination are varied. Operators may choose the most effective method for eliminating this hazard based on the unique conditions in the mine, including the nature of the hazard. For example, in one situation providing disposable coveralls could minimize or prevent asbestos take-home contamination. Another situation may require on-site shower facilities coupled with clothing changes to provide the same protection.
The existing standards, together with lower PELs, provide sufficient enforcement authority to ensure that mine operators take adequate measures, when necessary to prevent asbestos take-home contamination.
Commenters urged MSHA to expand the rulemaking to include specific requirements to prevent take-home contamination. NIOSH also encouraged MSHA to adopt measures included in its 1995 Report to Congress on their Workers’ Home Contamination Study Conducted under the Workers’ Family Protection Act.
About the Author
Pieter Pepler is a management consultant to small and medium enterpises. His work on asbestos mesothelioma and related research is published on his Mesothelioma-Junction.com website. His unique asbestos picture study of asbestos in a popular seaside holiday distination can also be viewed on his website.
Causes of Lung Cancer - Information You Need to Know
Lung Cancer Causes
Smoking - Most lung cancer related deaths (about 90 percent) have been associated with smoking. Each time a person smokes a cigarette, they increase their chances of getting lung cancer. Based upon doctors’ formula regarding the quantity of packs to the amount of years smoked, someone who has a 30 pack to year history has a greater chance to develop lung cancer. For those people who smoke two, three or more packs a day, statistics show that one in seven diagnosed will die from the disease. Cigarette smoking is not the only culprit to lung cancer. Cigar smoking and pipe smoking can also lead to the disease at a lower rate. Those who smoke cigars or pipe smoke are five times more likely to get lung cancer than a person who never smoked.
The smoke found in tobacco has over 4,000 element compounds. Many of these are cancer causing. Two key carcinogens are polycyclic aromatic hdrycarbons and nitrosamines. Once a person has given up tobacco use, lung cancer risks decreases every year. Normal cells will begin to grow and outnumber damaged lung cells. After 15 years of not smoking, lung processes and the threat of the disease gets close to that of someone who has never smoked.
Passive Smoking - What is passive smoking? This is when people who are in close quarters smokers breathe in the smoke filled air. Those who don’t smoke have a 24 percent likelihood to develop lung cancer if they live with a smoker. Nearly 3,000 deaths can be associated with passive smoking.
Asbestos Fibers - Mesothelioma and lung cancer through asbestos exposure is high. People who work in asbestos related fields and smoke dramatically increase their chances of getting a lung cancer connected disease. When compared with their non smoking counterparts, they have a 50 to 90 percent greater risk of getting lung cancer or other lung related illness.
Radon Gas - Radon gas has been documented to be the next leading cause in lung cancer deaths, killing anywhere from 15,000 to 22,000 people in the United States every year. Like asbestos exposure, radon exposure augments lung cancer risks. The gas is able to travel through soil. It can gain entrance into homes by the gaps found in its foundation, its drains and its pipes. Nearly one in 15 homes is found with dangerous level of radon gas according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency. Can a person tell if their home has high amounts of radon gas? Only by a kit. The gas cannot be smelled, nor can be it seen.
Genetics - It’s true that most cases of lung cancer can be linked back to smoking. However, not every smoker will get the disease. That means other factors like genetics could play a part behind the causes of lung cancer. Studies have revealed that cancer can and does occur in families that have smokers and nonsmokers. It would seem a gene can increase the vulnerability of smokers in getting lung cancer.
Lung Diseases - When a smoker or even non smoker has other lung diseases such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), they are at an increased risk to develop the disease even if they quit smoking and all the effects have worn away.
History of Lung Disease - People with a record of lung cancer are at a higher risk of developing it a second time. People who have survived a non-small cell lung cancers have a one to two percent risk to getting the disease a second time while those who have beaten small cell lung cancers have a six percent increase each year.
Air Pollution - The chances of getting lung cancer from air pollution is raised in individuals that breathe in polluted air every day. Pollution from cars, power plants and industrialized areas increases these risks. Yet, they only account for one percent of lung cancer related deaths. Experts have suggested that every day exposure to air heavily polluted can be compared to passive smoking.
About the Author
eCancerAnswers.net is a comprehensive Cancer guide that covers topics from Cancer Symptoms to Breast Cancer and Cancer Treatment.
Mesothelioma - A Crisis
It is unfortunate that this cancer is increasing at a rapid rate that it has already infected millions of people all over the world. These people are generally those who are working in companies that deal with asbestos refinery or manufacturing of asbestos products in one form or the other. People who are working in these companies day in and day out for their families, to give them better future do not know that while they are working so hard they are putting their own lives at stakes. They are exposed to harmful particles of asbestos all the day. They constantly inhale the white powder and even carry them to their home. And the worst thing to imagine is that they aren’t aware of what harm they are doing to themselves. Mesothelioma has a relatively long latency period of nearly 30 years or more so it becomes too late for a person to realize that he have this cancer because this is how long it can take to manifest.
Its is quite unfortunately that even after knowing that asbestos is so much detrimental to human body, the companies are still employing people in vast number and are making millions, if not billions, of dollars. People have no choice but to work there, risking their own life for making money for their living. These companies are so selfish that instead of taking some steps to assuage the problem they choose to make profit with a deadly product.
It is not that mesothelioma is any new disease but it is now when it is showing its existence and devastating effects. In the recent past we have heard so many cases of mesothelioma that we are bound to do something to counteract it otherwise it will continue spreading its terrible disease over mankind.
About the Author
I’m a health care professional who writes about mesothelioma at Mesothelioma Straight. My latest post on the outlying causes of the mesothelioma crisis is here: mesothelioma crisis
Injury lawyer claims asbestos victory
Many became terminally ill after their jobs at the firm brought them into close contact with the dangerous substance. The families of workers at the factory were also put at personal risk through contact with contaminated workers, in addition to facing the pain of losing loved ones.
The case has been ongoing due to the slow appearance of the effects of working with asbestos, which can manifest themselves years later in the form of aggressive cancers.
The latest twist in the rollercoaster trail of legal successes and setbacks comes with this month’s test case judgment defeating insurers, who were reluctant to validate ongoing payouts to ill workers. “It is a milestone. I feel enormous relief for the families involved,” said Mr Hankins, consultant to Rowcroft solicitors AES Winterbothams.
“This is probably one of the most aggressively fought areas of injury and disease in my professional life,” he said.
“This is also a very important case for Stroud as the lead defendant insurer was BAI and six test case victims defeated the insurers.”
Mr Hankins maintains that the insurer, BAI, had gone along for years with the payouts to the ex employees of Fibrecrete, before arguing in 2007 that the payments should only begin once symptoms of the associated diseases began to manifest themselves.
For many victims, diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer which are caused by exposure to the dangerous asbestos particles do not develop until up to 30 years after the original contact, by which point the majority of insurance policies would have expired.
Luckily after 6 weeks of arguing, the High Court found in favour of Mr Hankins and the ex employees of Fibrecrete.
“If they’d won there would have been nothing more disappointing than finding that, after working through a case with either a very ill person or a widow, that there was no insurance policy to pay out their compensation,” Mr Hankins said.
“These men are totally innocent but die dreadful deaths with these illnesses. There are also the wives and daughters who washed their clothes for them and inhaled the asbestos particles. These women had not done anything wrong and yet they too are deprived of their health.”
Mr Hankins, who said he came into his profession on a vocation to “right all wrongs”, expects asbestos cases to peak in about 2015.
“During the test case litigation BAI admitted that over the last two years they had rejected 284 fatal mesothelioma claims, whose f families are consequently still awaiting compensation averaging £125,000 each, which is a total of a staggering £35.5 million,” Mr Hankins said.
About the Author
Carys has more articles pertaining to injury lawyers and other legal related articles.
What should you do if diagnosed with asbestos-related disease?
They are either direct methods or alternative methods. Some of the direct methods are Surgery-both Aggressive and Pallative, Chemotherapy, Radiation therapy etc. Immunoagumentive Therapy (IAT), Gene Therapy, Intraoperative Photodynamic Therapy (IPT) etc. are some of the commonly practiced alternative methods.
Also one can take the help of Support Groups, which are available to help sufferers deal with the challenges that they are facing. A recent publication says that over 20% of Americans have participated in some type of self-help group. There are mainly two types of support groups that are available namely- online support groups and community centred support groups.
If you have already been diagnosed with mesothelioma it is important for you to have a positive frame of mind and keep yourself well informed about the latest medical developments that has taken place pertaining to this field. Also as a victim of the Asbestos industry you can have certain legal and social claims. The following propositions can be considered if you are a victim of Mesothelioma caused due to negligent asbestos exposure.
1. Legal Aid and Financial Compensation People who contract the disease must be absolutely sure that the cause for the same was asbestos exposure and then take steps to get the right legal counsel. Once the legal counsel has been retained the law will ensure that he or she gets the compensation for employers negligence if any.
2. Claim from the Asbestos Industry Mesothelioma victims have the option to claim large monetary compensation from the asbestos industry. These claims can go into the millions of dollars depending on the rights and cause of the claims. A Law firm that specializes in mesothelioma cases ensures that the families of victims gets ample compensation.
3. Claim Social Security Disability Victims can claim social security disability after getting advice from an attorney that specializes in these cases.
4. Disability Insurance You are legally entailed to claim disability insurance if you have disability insurance either privately procured, within your life insurance policy or through your employer.
5.Worker’s Compensation It is one of the core responsibilities of an employer to take care of its employees. Thus, even while the victim takes legal action against the asbestos industry he or she can simultaneously claim workers compensation for being ‘disabled’ during work. A lawyer who has experience in the asbestos industry should handle this sort of claim.
6. Health Insurance A victim of mesothelioma can incur huge medical bills due to the expensive nature of treatment that’s required for the treatment of this disease. If a victim is admitted to the hospital he or she should talk to the Discharge Planner or other personnel who can help with hospice and hospital coverage. Laws cover medial treatments and action can be taken health insurance company if they fail to provide proper coverage. Again it is imperative to ensure that the victim employs a proper legal representative.
About the Author
About the author: Did you know that mesothelioma symptoms are hard to detect? Find out why by visiting
What is Mesothelioma (Asbestos Cancer)?
Both types of mesothelioma can be very painful and lead to a number of undesirable symptoms. Pleural mesothelioma can cause breathlessness, coughing and chest pain. It can also lead to pleural effusion where lubricating fluid in the lungs becomes trapped between the inner and outer layers of the pleura. Peritoneal mesothelioma can lead to abdominal pain, bowel problems and it swelling in the abdomen.
Almost every case of mesothelioma is caused by exposure to asbestos. In the past asbestos was a very popular construction material in the UK. However, as people became more knowledgeable they learnt about the dangers associated with this material. In particular they discovered that the very fine fibres that make up asbestos are easily released when the material is handled. This led to a complete ban on the importing and use of asbestos being imposed in the UK in 1999.
Mesothelioma is a very rare type of cancer and is believed to affect one person in every million. However, it can be deadly. If you have previously been exposed to asbestos you should go see your doctor right away and explain your concerns. Even if it turns out that you do not have this type of cancer it is better to be safe than sorry.
Whilst every intention has been made to make this article accurate and informative, it is intended for general information only. Mesothelioma is a very serious, life threatening condition and you should discuss any concerns, treatments or lifestyle changes fully with your doctor.
About the Author
Tom Parker owns and operates a number of useful fitness resources and websites. You can learn more about mesothelioma and how improving your fitness can help you prevent cancer by visiting his Free Fitness Tips Blog
ASBESTOS Q & A ASBESTOS Faqs ASBESTOS Questions and Answers Asbestos Information Asbestosis Info Mesothelioma Texas Attorneys
- What is asbestos?
- Chrysotile, or white asbestos;
- Crocidolite, or blue asbestos;
- Amosite, which usually has brown fibers; and
- Anthophyllite, which usually has gray fibers.
- How is asbestos used?
Asbestos was mined and used commercially in North America beginning in the late 1800s. Its use increased greatly during World War II. Since then, it has been used in many industries. For example, the building and construction industry has used it for strengthening cement and plastics as well as for insulation, fireproofing, and sound absorption. The shipbuilding industry has used asbestos to insulate boilers, steampipes, and hot water pipes. The automotive industry uses asbestos in vehicle brakeshoes and clutch pads. More than 5,000 products contain or have contained asbestos. Some of them are listed below:
- Asbestos cement sheet and pipe products used for water supply and sewage piping, roofing and siding, casings for electrical wires, fire protection material, electrical switchboards and components, and residential and industrial building materials;
- Friction products, such as clutch facings, brake linings for automobiles, gaskets, and industrial friction materials;
- Products containing asbestos paper, such as table pads and heat-protective mats, heat and electrical wire insulation, industrial filters for beverages, and underlying material for sheet flooring;
- Asbestos textile products, such as packing components, roofing materials, and heat- and fire-resistant fabrics (including blankets and curtains); and
- Other products, including ceiling and floor tile; gaskets and packings; paints, coatings, and adhesives; caulking and patching tape; artificial ashes and embers for use in gas-fired fireplaces; plastics; vermiculite-containing consumer garden products; and some talc-containing crayons.
In the late 1970s, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) banned the use of asbestos in wallboard patching compounds and gas fireplaces because the asbestos fibers in these products could be released into the environment during use. Additionally, asbestos was voluntarily withdrawn by manufacturers of electric hair dryers. In 1989, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) banned all new uses of asbestos; uses established prior to 1989 are still allowed.
The EPA has established regulations that require school systems to inspect for damaged asbestos and to eliminate or reduce the exposure to occupants by removing the asbestos or encasing it. In June 2000, the CPSC concluded that the risk of children’s exposure to asbestos fibers in crayons was extremely low. However, the U.S. manufacturers of these crayons agreed to reformulate their products within a year. In August 2000, the EPA recommended that consumers reduce possible asbestos exposure from vermiculite-containing garden products by limiting the amount of dust produced during use. The EPA suggested that consumers use vermiculite outdoors or in a well-ventilated area; keep vermiculite damp while using it; avoid bringing dust from vermiculite use into the home on clothing; and use premixed potting soil, which is less likely to generate dust.
The regulations described above and other actions, coupled with widespread public concern about the hazards of asbestos, have resulted in a significant annual decline in U.S. use of asbestos: Domestic consumption of asbestos amounted to about 719,000 metric tons in 1973, but it had dropped to about 9,000 metric tons by 2002. Asbestos is currently used most frequently in gaskets and in roofing and friction products.
- What are the health hazards of exposure to asbestos?
Exposure to asbestos may increase the risk of several serious diseases:
- Asbestosis-a chronic lung ailment that can produce shortness of breath, coughing, and permanent lung damage;
- Lung cancer;
- Mesothelioma-a relatively rare cancer of the thin membranes that line the chest and abdomen; and
- Other cancers, such as those of the larynx, oropharynx, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney.
- Who is at risk?
Nearly everyone is exposed to asbestos at some time during their life. However, most people do not become ill from their exposure. People who become ill from asbestos are usually those who are exposed to it on a regular basis, most often in a job where they work directly with the material or through substantial environmental contact.
Since the early 1940s, millions of American workers have been exposed to asbestos. Health hazards from asbestos fibers have been recognized in workers exposed in shipbuilding trades, asbestos mining and milling, manufacturing of asbestos textiles and other asbestos products, insulation work in the construction and building trades, brake repair, and a variety of other trades. Demolition workers, drywall removers, and firefighters also may be exposed to asbestos fibers. As a result of Government regulations and improved work practices, today’s workers (those without previous exposure) are likely to face smaller risks than did those exposed in the past.
Although it is known that the risk to workers increases with heavier exposure and longer exposure time, investigators have found asbestos-related diseases in individuals with only brief exposures. Generally, those who develop asbestos-related diseases show no signs of illness for a long time after their first exposure. It can take from 10 to 40 years for symptoms of an asbestos-related condition to appear.
There is some evidence that family members of workers heavily exposed to asbestos face an increased risk of developing mesothelioma. This risk is thought to result from exposure to asbestos fibers brought into the home on the shoes, clothing, skin, and hair of workers. This type of exposure is called paraoccupational exposure. To decrease these exposures, people exposed to asbestos at work are required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace.
- How great is the risk?
Not all workers exposed to asbestos will develop diseases related to their exposure. The risk of developing asbestos-related diseases varies with the type of industry in which the exposure occurred and with the extent of the exposure. Asbestos that is bonded into finished products such as walls and tiles poses no risk to health as long as it is not damaged or disturbed (for example, by sawing or drilling) in such a way as to release fibers into the air. When asbestos fibers are set free and inhaled, however, exposed individuals are at risk of developing an asbestos-related disease.
- How does smoking affect risk?
Many studies have shown that the combination of smoking and asbestos exposure is particularly hazardous. Smokers who are also exposed to asbestos have a greatly increased risk of lung cancer. However, smoking combined with asbestos exposure does not appear to increase the risk of mesothelioma.
There is evidence that quitting smoking will reduce the risk of lung cancer among asbestos-exposed workers. People who were exposed to asbestos on the job at any time during their life or who suspect they may have been exposed should not smoke. If they smoke, they should stop.
- Who needs to be examined?
Individuals who have been exposed (or suspect they have been exposed) to asbestos fibers on the job or at home via a family contact should inform their physician of their exposure history and any symptoms. Asbestos fibers can be measured in urine, feces, mucus, or material rinsed out of the lungs. A thorough physical examination, including a chest x-ray and lung function tests, may be recommended. It is important to note that chest x-rays cannot detect asbestos fibers in the lungs, but they can help identify any lung changes resulting from asbestos exposure. Interpretation of the chest x-ray may require the help of a specialist who is experienced in reading x-rays for asbestos-related diseases. Other tests also may be necessary.
As noted earlier, the symptoms of asbestos-related diseases may not become apparent for many decades after exposure. If any of the following symptoms develop, a physical examination should be scheduled without delay:
- Shortness of breath;
- A cough or a change in cough pattern;
- Blood in the sputum (fluid) coughed up from the lungs;
- Pain in the chest or abdomen;
- Difficulty in swallowing or prolonged hoarseness; and/or
- Significant weight loss.
- How can workers protect themselves?
Employers are required to follow regulations dealing with asbestos exposure on the job that have been issued by the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the Federal agency responsible for health and safety regulations in maritime, construction, manufacturing, and service workplaces. The Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) enforces regulations related to mine safety. Workers should use all protective equipment provided by their employers and follow recommended work practices and safety procedures. For example, National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)-approved respirators that fit properly should be worn by workers when required.
Workers who are concerned about asbestos exposure in the workplace should discuss the situation with other employees, their employee health and safety representative, and their employers. If necessary, OSHA can provide more information or make an inspection. Regional offices of OSHA are listed in the “United States Government” section of telephone directories’ blue pages (under “Department of Labor”). Regional offices can also be located at http://www.osha-slc.gov/html/RAmap.html on the Internet, or by contacting OSHA’s national office at:
Organization: Office of Public Affairs
Occupational Safety and Health Administration
U.S. Department of Labor
Address: Room N-3647
200 Constitution Avenue, NW.
Washington, DC 20210
Telephone: 202-693-1999
1-800-321-6742 (1-800-321-OSHA)
TTY (for deaf or hard of hearing callers): 1-877-889-5627
Internet Web site:
http://www.osha.gov/as/opa/worker/index.html(Worker’s Page)Mine workers may contact:
Organization: Office of Information and Public Affairs Mine Safety and Health Administration (MSHA)
U.S. Department of Labor
Address: 23rd Floor
1100 Wilson Boulevard
Arlington, VA 22209-3939
Telephone: 202-693-9400
Internet Web site:The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is another Federal agency that is concerned with asbestos exposure in the workplace. The Institute conducts asbestos-related research, evaluates work sites for possible health hazards, and makes exposure control recommendations. In addition, NIOSH distributes publications on the health effects of asbestos exposure and can suggest additional sources of information. NIOSH can be contacted at:
Organization: Information Resources Branch
National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
Address: Robert A. Taft Laboratories
Mailstop C-18
4676 Columbia Parkway
Cincinnati, OH 45226-1998
Telephone: 1-800-356-4674 (1-800-35-NIOSH)
E-mail: pubstaft@cdc.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh - Will the Government provide examinations and treatment for asbestos-related conditions? What about insurance coverage?
Medical services related to asbestos exposure are available through the Government for certain groups of eligible individuals. In general, individuals must pay for their own medical services unless they are covered by private or Government health insurance. Some people with symptoms of asbestos-related illness may be eligible for Medicare coverage. Information about benefits is available from the Medicare office serving each state. For the telephone number of the nearest office, call toll-free 1-800-633-4227 (1-800-MEDICARE) or visit http://www.medicare.gov on the Internet.
People with asbestos-related diseases also may qualify for financial help, including medical payments, under state workers’ compensation laws. Because eligibility requirements vary from state to state, workers should contact the workers’ compensation program in their state. Contact information for the workers’ compensation program in each state may be found in the blue pages of a local telephone directory or at http://www.dol.gov/esa/regs/compliance/owcp/wc.htm on the Internet.
If exposure occurred during employment with a Federal agency (military or civilian), medical expenses and other compensation may be covered by the Federal Employees’ Compensation Program. Workers who are or were employed in a shipyard by a private employer may be covered under the Longshoremen and Harbor Workers’ Compensation Act. Information about eligibility and how to file a claim is available from:
Organization: Office of Worker’s Compensation Programs
Employment Standards Administration
U.S. Department of Labor
Address: Room S-3229
200 Constitution Avenue, NW.
Washington, DC 20210
Telephone: 202-693-0040
E-mail: OWCP-Mail@dol-esa.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.dol.gov/esa/owcp_org.htmWorkers also may wish to contact their international union for information on other sources of medical help and insurance matters.
Eligible veterans and their dependents may receive health care at a Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Medical Center. Treatment for service-connected and nonservice-connected conditions is provided. If the VA cannot provide the necessary medical care, they will arrange for enrolled veterans to receive care in their community. Information about eligibility and benefits is available from the VA Health Benefits Service Center at 1-877-222-8387 (1-877-222-VETS) or on the VA Web site at http://www.va.gov/health_benefits on the Internet.
- Is there a danger of nonoccupational exposure from the environment and products contaminated with asbestos fibers?
Asbestos is so widely used that the entire population has been exposed to some degree. Air, drinking water, and a variety of consumer products all may contain small amounts of asbestos. In addition, asbestos fibers are released into the environment from natural deposits in the earth and as a result of wear and deterioration of asbestos products. Disease is unlikely to result from a single, high-level exposure, or from a short period of exposure to lower levels of asbestos.
- What other organizations offer information related to asbestos exposure?
The organizations listed below can provide more information about asbestos exposure.
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) is responsible for preventing exposure, adverse human health effects, and diminished quality of life associated with exposure to hazardous substances from waste sites, unplanned releases, and other sources of pollution present in the environment. The ATSDR provides information about asbestos and where to find occupational and environmental health clinics. The ATSDR Information Center can be reached at:
Organization: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry Division of Toxicology
Address: Mailstop E-29
1600 Clifton Road, NE.
Atlanta, GA 30333
Telephone: 404-498-0160
1-888-422-8737 (1-888-42-ATSDR)
E-mail: ATSDRIC@cdc.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.atsdr.cdc.govThe U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) regulates the general public’s exposure to asbestos in buildings, drinking water, and the environment. The EPA’s Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) Assistance Information Service, or TSCA Hotline, can answer questions about toxic substances, including asbestos. Printed material is available on a number of topics, particularly on controlling asbestos exposure in schools and other buildings. The EPA’s Asbestos and Vermiculite Home Page has suggestions for homeowners who suspect asbestos in their homes, lists laws and regulations applicable to asbestos, and links to the Agency’s findings on asbestos exposure at the World Trade Center and the Pentagon. Questions may be directed to:
Organization: TSCA Assistance Information Service
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Address: Mailcode 74080
401 M Street, SW.
Washington, DC 20460
Telephone: 202-554-1404
TDD: 202-554-0551
E-mail: tsca-hotline@epa.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.epa.gov/asbestos/The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is responsible for the regulation of asbestos in consumer products. The CPSC maintains a toll-free information line on the potential hazards of commercial products; the telephone number is 1-800-638-2772. In addition, CPSC provides information about laboratories for asbestos testing, guidelines for repairing and removing asbestos, and general information about asbestos in the home. Publications are available from:
Organization: Office of Information and Public Affairs
U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
Address: 4330 East-West Highway
Bethesda, MD 20814-4408
Telephone: 1-800-638-2772
TTY (for deaf or hard of hearing callers): 1-800-638-8270
E-mail: info@cpsc.gov
Internet Web site:
http://www.cpsc.govInformation about asbestos is also available from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Web site at http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2001pres/20010916a.html on the Internet. In addition, people can contact their local community or state health or environmental quality department with questions or concerns about asbestos.
Materials about cancer and how to quit smoking are available by calling the Cancer Information Service (CIS) (see below).
“Asbestos” is the name given to a group of minerals that occur naturally as bundles of fibers which can be separated into thin threads. These fibers are not affected by heat or chemicals and do not conduct electricity. For these reasons, asbestos has been widely used in many industries. Four types of asbestos have been used commercially:
Chrysotile asbestos, with its curly fibers, is in the serpentine family of minerals. The other types of asbestos, which all have rod-like fibers, are known as amphiboles.
Asbestos fiber masses tend to break easily into a dust composed of tiny particles that can float in the air and stick to clothes. The fibers may be easily inhaled or swallowed and can cause serious health problems.
Comment: Mesothelioma can be caused by exposure to all types of asbestos.
References:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (September 2001). Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/ToxProfiles/phs9004.html”.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (November 25, 2002). Asbestos: Health Effects of Exposure to Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: www.atsdr.cdc.gov/asbestos/asbestos_effects.html.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (November 2000). Case Studies in Environmental Medicine: Asbestos Toxicity. Retrieved August 21, 2003, from: www.atsdr.cdc.gov/HEC/CSEM/asbestos/index.html.
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (September 11, 2001). ToxFAQ’s for Asbestos. Retrieved March 5, 2003, from: www.atsdr.cdc.gov/tfacts61.html.
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Sources of National Cancer Institute Information:
- Cancer Information Service
Toll-free: 1-800-4-CANCER (1-800-422-6237)
TTY (for deaf and hard of hearing callers): 1-800-332-8615 - NCI Online
Internet
Use http://cancer.gov to reach NCI’s Web site.LiveHelp
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MESOTHELIOMA GLOSSARY - Glossary Of Mesothelioma
MESOTHELIOMA GLOSSARY - Glossary Of Mesothelioma
ASBESTOS CONTAINING MATERIALS (ACM): Materials such as ceiling tiles, floor tiles, gaskets, packing, joint compound, heat insulation and brake linings produced before 1990 commonly contained asbestos.
ADENOCARCINOMA: type of cancer that begins in the cells that line certain internal organs such as the lungs.
ADJUVENT THERAPY: a supplemental treatment to the main medical procedure. This treatment usually comes in the form of radiation therapy or chemotherapy, and is employed after surgery.
AFFIDAVIT: a written statement whereby the signer swears to its truth before a notary or other judicial officer. A witness affidavit may be accepted in place of testimony in court.
AJCC STAGING SYSTEM: American Joint Committee on Cancer staging system (also called the TNM system), which describes the extent of a cancer’s spread in Roman numerals from 0-IV.
ALIMTA: a chemotherapy drug developed by Eli Lilly specifically for mesothelioma patients.
ALVEOLAR EPITHELIAL CELLS: cells that line the lung air sacs.
ALVEOLAR SACS: small air chambers in the lung.
ALVEOLI: tiny, thin walled air sacs in the lungs where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange places. Asbestos fibers in the lungs cause scar tissue to form on the walls of the alveoli, decreasing oxygen intake.
AMPHIBOLE: a type of mineral, distinguished by a chain-like crystal structure and chemical composition. Asbestos amphiboles include actinolite, amosite, anthophillite, crocidolite, and tremolite.
ANEMIA: a condition in which the number of red blood cells is below normal.
ANXIETY: anxiety is a state of apprehension or fear, either real or imagined, resulting from anticipation of a threatening event or situation. Many victims of mesothelioma and their loved ones are faced with stress and anxiety.
APPEAL: a request to a higher court to reverse the decision of a lower court.
ARRHYTHMIA: an arrhythmia is any deviation from or disturbance of the normal heart rhythm.
ASBESTIFORM: a mineral that looks like asbestos.
ASBESTOS: is the commercial name given to a naturally occurring fibrous silicate mineral commonly used in construction materials and other products because of its high heat resistance, strength and durability. Over time, exposure to asbestos may lead to asbestosis, mesothelioma, lung cancer and other cancers.
ASBESTOSIS: scarring of the lungs caused by inhaled asbestos fibers. Asbestosis is irreversible.
ASBESTOS PLEURAL DISEASE: a disease characterized specifically by scarring of the membranes lining the lungs and chest cavity.
ASCITES: abnormal build-up of fluid in the abdomen that may cause swelling. In late-stage cancer, tumor cells may be found in the fluid in the abdomen. Ascites is a common manifestation of peritoneal mesothelioma and can occur as a manifestation of recurrent mesothelioma after surgery for the disease in the chest.
ASPIRATION: the medical process of removing a small sample of tissue for testing with a needle-like suction device.
ATELECTASIS: incomplete expansion of a portion of the lung or the whole lung.
AUTOPSY: a surgical procedure after death which involves the examination of body tissues, often to determine cause of death.
BACKGROUND LEVEL: the average or expected amount of a substance in a specific environment.
BILATERAL: disease in both lungs.
BIOMARKERS: a protein or compound easily detectable in the body that indicates an exposure has occurred.
BIOPSY: the removal of cells or tissues for examination under a microscope. When only a sample of tissue is removed, the procedure is called an incisional biopsy or core biopsy. When an entire lump or suspicious area is removed, the procedure is called an excisional biopsy. When a sample of tissue or fluid is removed with a needle, the procedure is called a needle biopsy or fine-needle aspiration. Pleural biopsies are used to make the diagnosis of mesothelioma.
BIPHASIC: a mesothelioma which has both epithelial and sarcomatoid elements. Also called a mixed mesothelioma.
B-READER: a person certified by NIOSH as qualified to interpret chest x-rays especially for dust disease, including asbestos disease.
BRONCHI: the two main air passages leading from the windpipe (trachea). They allow air to move in and out of the lungs.
BRONCHIOLE: one of the smaller subdivisions of the bronchi.
BRONCHOGENIC CARCINOMA/CANCER: a type of lung cancer.
BRONCHOPLEURAL FISTULA: a complication after extrapleural pneumonectomy in which there is a leakage of air from the closed bronchial tube.
BRONCHOSCOPY: a thin, lighted tube (bronchoscope) inserted through the nose or mouth to examine the breathing passages at the entrance to your lungs.
BUTCHART STAGING SYSTEM: the staging system most often used for mesothelioma. It is divided into stages I-IV with the levels determined by the tissue involved.
CACHEXIA: loss of body weight and muscle mass, and weakness that may occur in patients with cancer, AIDS, or other chronic disease. Cachexia is a common manifestation of late stage mesothelioma.
CALCIFICATION: process in which tissue becomes hardened as a result of calcium deposits.
CANCER: an abnormal growth of cells which tend to proliferate in an uncontrolled way and, in some cases, to metastasize (spread).
CANCER CENTER: a hospital that specializes only in the care of patients with cancer. An NCI designated cancer center is specifically recognized and partially funded by the National Cancer Institute.
CARCINOGENIC: substances that produce cancer or cancer growth.
CARDIOLOGIST: a specialist in the treatment of conditions related to the heart who would perform the appropriate tests to see if a patient is functionally able to tolerate surgery for mesothelioma.
CATHETER: a tube which could be used to drain urine from the bladder; an intravenous catheter is used to give fluids in the vein.
CHEMOTHERAPY: drug treatment to destroy cancer cells.
CHEST X-RAY: a chest x-ray is a radiology test that involves exposing the chest briefly to radiation to produce an image of the chest and the internal organs of the chest. Chest x-rays can be used to define abnormalities of the lungs such as excessive fluid, pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma, cysts, and cancers.
CHRONIC: occurring over a long time.
CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD): a progressive lung disease process characterized by difficulty breathing, wheezing, and a chronic cough. Complications include bronchitis, pneumonia and lung cancer.
CHRYSOTILE: type of asbestos with a white curly fiber, chrysotile accounts for 90% of asbestos in products and is a member of the serpentine group. It is a magnesium silicate.
CISPLATIN: platinum-containing chemotherapy agent that works by binding to DNA of tumor cells.
CLINICAL TRAILS: research studies that test how new medical treatments and other interventions work in people. Tests may be preventative, diagnostic or therapeutic.
COMPLAINT: the document filed with the court stating the facts of your case and your legal claims against the asbestos companies.
COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE (CAM): forms of treatment that are used in addition to (complementary) or instead of (alternative) standard treatments. These practices generally are not considered standard medical approaches. CAM may include dietary supplements, megadose vitamins, herbal preparations, special teas, acupuncture, massage therapy, magnet therapy, spiritual healing, and meditation.
COMPLETE RESPONSE: the disappearance of all signs of cancer in response to treatment. This does not always mean the cancer has been cured. Also called a complete remission.
CONTAMINANT: a substance that is present in a certain amount of soil, water, air, food, blood, hair, urine, breath, or any other media.
CROCIDOLITE: a member of the amphibole group of asbestos, crocidolite takes the form of blue, straight fibers. It is sodium iron magnesium silicate.
CRYOSURGERY: the use of an extremely cold probing instrument to destroy unwanted abnormal tissues.
CT SCAN: a type of x-ray that takes cross-sections of the body (like slices). Much more precise than typical x-rays.
CURATIVE TREATMENT: treatment aimed at producing a cure. Compare with palliative treatment.
CYTOLOGY: the branch of biological science that deals with the structure and function of cells. In asbestos cases, it often refers to the testing of liquid removed from the outside of the lung.
DECORTATION: removal of the external layer of an organ.
DEFENDANT: the asbestos companies that you are suing for damages.
DERMAL: referring to the skin. For example, dermal absorption means passing through the skin.
DIAGNOSIS: The nature of a disease; the identification of an illness.
DIAPHRAGM: muscular, membranous partition that separates the abdominal and thoracic cavities.
DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: the determination of which two or more diseases with similar symptoms is the one from which a patient is suffering based on an analysis of the clinical data.
DIFFUSE: not limited or localized; widely distributed.
DISEASE: illness or sickness often characterized by typical problems (symptoms) and physical findings (signs).
DOSE: the amount of a substance to which a person is exposed over some time period. Dose is a measurement of exposure. In general, the greater the dose, the greater the likelihood of an effect. An “exposure dose” is how much of a substance is encountered in the environment. An “absorbed dose” is the amount of a substance that actually got into the body through the eyes, skin, stomach, intestines, or lungs.
DOSE-RESPONSE RELATIONSHIP: the relationship between the amount of exposure (dose) and the resulting changes in body function or health (response).
DYSPNEA: difficult, painful breathing or shortness of breath. One of the early symptoms of mesothelioma in the pleura due to the accumulation of fluid in the chest.
ECHOCARDIOGRAM: a test that uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart. The picture is much more detailed than an x-ray image and involves no radiation exposure.
ENDOSCOPE: an illuminated optic instrument that is inserted through an incision.
EPA: the US government agency founded to “protect human health and to safeguard the natural environment–air, water and land–upon which life depends.” The Environmental Protection Agency is known as the EPA.
EPIDEMIOLOGICAL: studies of how health-related conditions occur in specific populations.
EPIDEMIOLOGY: the study of the distribution and determinants of disease or health status in a population; the study of the occurrence and causes of health effects in humans.
EPIDURAL CATHETER: a catheter which allows injection of an anesthetic drug into the space between the wall of the spinal canal and the covering of the spinal cord. This is the most reliable means for short term pain relief after an operation for mesothelioma.
EPITHELIAL: refers to the cells that line the internal and external surfaces of the body; the term used to describe the appearance of the cells under the microscope for the most common type of mesothelioma.
ESOPHAGITIS: inflammation of the esophagus (the tube that carries food from the mouth to the stomach). This most frequently occurs in the area of chest radiation after an operation for mesothelioma.
EXPOSURE: contact with a substance by swallowing, breathing, or touching the skin or eyes. Exposure may be short-term (acute exposure), of intermediate duration, or long-term (chronic exposure).
EXTERNAL-BEAM OPERATION: radiation therapy that uses a machine to aim high-energy rays at the cancer. Also called external radiation. Most commonly used after removal of an entire lung for mesothelioma.
EXTRAPLEURAL PNEUMONECTOMY: surgery to remove a diseased lung, part of the pericardium (membrane covering the heart), part of the diaphragm (muscle between the lungs and the abdomen), and part of the parietal pleura (membrane lining the chest). This type of surgery is used most often to treat malignant mesothelioma.
FIBROSIS: formation of fibrous tissue (scarring) in an organ as part of a repair or reactive process.
FRIABLE: a material which when dry, may be crumbled, crushed, pulverized, or reduced to powder by normal hand pressure.
GENE: a segment of DNA that contains information on hereditary characteristics such as hair color, eye color, and height, as well as susceptibility to certain diseases.
GENE THERAPY: treatment that alters a gene. In studies of gene therapy for cancer, researchers are trying to improve the body’s natural ability to fight the disease or to make the cancer cells more sensitive to other kinds of therapy by either adding a gene which was lost in the cancer or interfering with a gene which contributes to the growth of the cancer.
HAZARD: a source of potential harm from past, current, or future exposures.
HEMOPTYSIS: coughing up blood.
HEMORRHAGE: in medicine, loss of blood from damaged blood vessels. A hemorrhage may be internal or external, and usually involves a lot of bleeding in a short time.
HILAR: pertaining to the part of an organ where nerves and vessels enter and leave.
HISTOLOGY: the study of the structure and behavior of cells and body tissues, usually involving microscopic examination of tissue slices.
HOSPICE: a program that provides special care for people who are near the end of life, either at home, in freestanding facilities, or within hospitals.
IDIOPATHIC: of a condition or disorder that occurs spontaneously for unknown reason.
INHALATION: the act of breathing. A hazardous substance can enter the body this way.
IMAGING TESTS: takes pictures of the lungs and can detect problems such as a mass, an infection or air in the pleural space. Visual imaging tests include: chest x-rays and CT scans.
IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL: refers to use of antibody-antigen stains to create reactions to locate markers specific to certain tissues or cells. This staining of human tissue is used to diagnose mesothelioma.
IMMUNOSTAINING: the use by pathologists of specific proteins with color producing labels attached to them to stain tissue sections in order to differentiate one tumor from another. It is particularly important to use a battery of immunostains in order to tell whether the biopsy is a mesothelioma or a lung cancer.
IMMUNOSUPPRESSANT: substance that reduces the effectiveness of the body’s defense mechanisms.
IMMUNOTHERAPY: administration of agents that induce a pro-inflammatory response.
INFORMED CONSENT: a process by which a person learns key facts about a clinical trial, including potential risks and benefits, before deciding whether or not to participate in a study. Informed consent continues throughout the trial.
INTERFERON: substance that helps regulate immune responses.
INTERSTITIAL DISEASE: fibrosis (scarring) in the lungs.
INTENSITY-MODULATED RADIATION THERAPY (IMRT): a type of 3-dimensional radiation therapy that uses computer-generated images to show the size and shape of the tumor. Thin beams of radiation of different intensities are aimed at the tumor from many angles. This type of radiation therapy reduces the damage to healthy tissue near the tumor and is being explored in mesothelioma.
INTRAOPERATIVE PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY: a new treatment that uses special drugs and light to kill cancer cells. Its use in the early states of mesothelioma in the chest is being studied.
INTRAPERITONEALLY: inserting chemotherapy drugs directly into the abdominal cavity.
INTRAPLEURALLY: inserting chemotherapy drugs directly into the chest cavity.
INTRAVENOUS: within a blood vessel.
INVASIVE CANCER: cancer that has spread beyond the layer of tissue in which it developed and is growing into surrounding, healthy tissues. Also called infiltrating cancer.
LATENCY PERIOD: the time between the actual exposure to a carcinogen like asbestos and the development of cancer, i.e. mesothelioma.
LAWSUIT: a legal action by one person or entity against another person or entity.
LOBECTOMY: a surgical procedure in which the lobe of a lung is removed.
LUNGS: the lungs are a pair of breathing organs located within the chest which remove carbon dioxide from and bring oxygen to the blood. There is a right and left lung.
LUNG CANCER: an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells in lung tissue. Primary lung cancer originates in the lungs, while metastic lung cancer spreads to the lungs from another organ. Classification is based on the type of cell the cancer originates from: adenocarcinoma, alveolar cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, large cell, and small cell carcinomas.
LYMPH: fluid composed of lymphocytes.
LYMPH NODE: a rounded mass of lymphatic tissue that is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue. Lymph nodes filter lymph (lymphatic fluid), and they store lymphocytes (white blood cells). They are located along lymphatic vessels. Also called lymph gland. The involvement of lymph glands by mesothelioma changes the stage to a higher one and is an indication of a more advanced tumor.
MACROPHAGE: a type of immune cell found in tissues that phagocytizes (engulfs and destroys) particles as part of its function.
MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI): a procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer are used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue. MRI makes better images of organs and soft tissue than other scanning techniques, such as CT or x-ray. MRI is especially useful for imaging the brain, spine, the soft tissue of joints, and the inside of bones. Also called nuclear magnetic resonance imaging.
MALAISE: feeling of general discomfort or uneasiness; often the first indication of an infection or other disease.
MALIGNANT: In regard to a tumor, having the properties of cancer that can invade and destroy nearby tissue and that may spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body.
MEDIAN: middle number in a series of numbers (for example: median survival of 10 months means that for that specific group of patients the survival varied from probably 2 months to 30 months).
MEDIASTINOSCOPY: a procedure in which a tube is inserted into the chest to view the organs in the area between the lungs and nearby lymph nodes. The tube is inserted through an incision above the breastbone. This procedure is usually performed to get a tissue sample from the lymph nodes on the right side of the chest.
MEDIASTINUM: area of the thoracic cavity between the lungs that contains the heart.
MESOTHELIAL CELLS: Specialized cells forming a tissue called the mesothelium which lines the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and the cavity around the heart. These cells also cover the outer surface of most internal organs.
MESOTHELIOMA: a form of cancer linked to asbestos exposure that occurs in the sac lining of the chest (pleural mesothelioma) or abdomen (peritoneal mesothelioma), or the lining of the heart (pericardial mesothelioma).
MESOTHELIUM: tissue formed by specialized cells lining the chest, abdominal cavities and outer surface of most internal organs. The mesothelium produces a lubricating fluid that helps organs by enabling them to move.
METASTASES(S)/METASTASIS: spread of disease from original site in the body to other sites.
MIXED TYPE MESOTHELIOMA: cancer involving the epithelial and mesenchymal cells of the mesothelium.
MUTAGEN: a substance that causes mutations (genetic damage).
MUTATION: a change (damage) to the DNA, genes, or chromosomes of living organisms.
NARCOTIC: an agent that causes insensibility or stupor; usually refers to opioids given to relieve pain.
NEEDLE BIOPSY: a procedure where a needle is inserted through a bronchoscope or the chest wall to collect tissue or fluid.
NEGLIGENCE: failure to exercise the care toward others which would reasonably be expected of a person in the circumstances, or taking action which a reasonable person would not.
NEOPLASM: new growth or tumor which may be benign or malignant.
NEUROPATHY: a problem in peripheral nerve function (any part of the nervous system except the brain and spinal cord) that causes pain, numbness, tingling, swelling, and muscle weakness in various parts of the body. Neuropathies may be caused by physical injury, infection, toxic substances, disease (e.g., cancer, diabetes, kidney failure, or malnutrition), or drugs such as anticancer drugs. Also called peripheral neuropathy.
NODULE: small, solid, slightly raised area.
ONCOLOGIST: a physician specializing in cancer diagnosis and treatment.
ONCOLOGY: the study of cancer.
ONSET: in medicine, the first appearance of the signs or symptoms of an illness as, for example, the onset of mesothelioma.
OSHA: the Occupational and Safety Health Administration is the federal government agency which regulates the use of asbestos and sets the standards for its distribution.
OXYGEN: a colorless, odorless and tasteless gas that makes up about 20% of the air we breathe (and at least half the weight of the entire solid crust of the earth) and which combines with most of the other elements to form oxides. Oxygen is essential to human, animal and plant life.
PALLIATIVE TREATMENT: therapy that relieves symptoms, such as pain or blockage, but is not expected to cure the cancer. Its main purpose is to improve the patient’s quality of life.
PARACENTESIS: insertion of a thin needle or tube into the abdomen to remove fluid from the peritoneal cavity. Commonly used to make the diagnosis of peritoneal mesothelioma in patients with ascites or to diagnose recurrence of the disease in the belly.
PARIETAL PLEURA: the lining on the inside of the chest wall which is composed of mesothelial cells and is the target organ for asbestos induced mesothelioma.
PATHOGENICITY: pertaining to the ability to cause disease.
PATHOLOGIST: a specialist physician expert in the origin of disease and the microscopic analysis of body tissues.
PERICARDIUM: the sac that covers the heart.
PERITONEUM: the tissue that lines the abdominal wall which is composed of mesothelial cells and is the target organ for abdominal or peritoneal mesothelioma.
PET SCAN: (Positron Emission Tomography Scan); A procedure in which a small amount of radioactive glucose (sugar) is injected into a vein, and a scanner is used to make detailed, computerized pictures of areas inside the body where the glucose is used. Because cancer cells often use more glucose than normal cells, the pictures can be used to find cancer cells in the body.
PHAGOCYTOSIS: the process of digestion by cells of solid substances; for example, bacteria and foreign particles.
PHENOTYPE: the observable properties of an organism, determined by the genotype in combination with the environment.
PHOTODYNAMIC THERAPY: treatment with drugs that become active when exposed to light. These drugs kill cancer cells.
PLAINTIFF: the party who initiates a lawsuit by filing a complaint.
PLATELET: a type of blood cell that helps prevent bleeding by causing blood clots to form. Also called a thrombocyte.
PLEURA: the thin covering that protects and cushions the lungs. The pleura is made up of two layers of tissue that are separated by a small amount of fluid. The most common site for mesothelioma.
PLEURAL CAVITY: the space enclosed by the pleura, which is a thin layer of tissue that covers the lungs and lines the interior wall of the chest cavity.
PLEURAL EFFUSION: accumulation of fluid between the lining of the lung and the chest cavity.
PLEURAL MESOTHELIOMA: cancer of the pleura (membrane lining the lungs and chest cavity). Pleural mesothelioma is different from lung cancer. Lung cancer refers to any type of malignant tumor that originates in the lungs. Pleural mesothelioma effects the pleura.
The pleura is the tissue lining that surrounds the lungs. There are two pleural membranes that protect the lungs by producing a lubricating fluid that fills the space between the pleura and the lungs.
PLEURAL PLAQUES: a patch or small differentiated area on the surface of the pleura.
PLEURECTOMY: a surgical procedure to remove part of the chest or abdomen lining (pleura) and some of the tissue around it.
PLEURODESIS: a medical procedure that uses chemicals or drugs to cause inflammation and adhesion between the layers of the pleura (the tissue that covers the lungs and lines the interior wall of the chest cavity). This prevents the buildup of fluid in the pleural cavity. It is used as a treatment for severe pleural effusion. It can be performed with a variety of agents, including talc.
PNEUMOCONIOSIS: fibrosis and scarring of the lungs as a result of repeated inhalation of occupationally associated dust, such as silica, asbestos, and coal dust.
PNEUMONECTOMY: surgical procedure to remove the entire lung.
PNEUMOTHORAX: air within the chest cavity.
PROGNOSIS: the likely outcome or course of a disease; the chance of recovery or recurrence.
PROGRESSIVE DISEASE: cancer that is increasing in scope or severity.
PROTEIN: a molecule made up of amino acids that are needed for the body to function properly. Proteins are the basis of body structures such as skin and hair, and of substances such as enzymes, cytokines and antibodies.
PROTOCOL: an action plan for a clinical trial.
PULMONARY: having to do with the lungs.
PULMONARY FIBROSIS: interstitial disease; the presence of fibrous tissue in the lungs.
PULMONARY FUNCTION TESTS: measures how well the lungs are working and include: spirometry, which measures the amount of air the lungs can hold; lung volume tests to measure the amount of air remaining in the lungs after exhaling; and lung diffusion tests and pulse oximetry, which measure the amount of oxygen passed through the lungs to the blood.
PULMONOLOGIST: a specialist physician expert in the treatment of lung disease.
RADIATION THERAPY: treatment with high-energy rays to destroy or shrink cancer cells.
RADIOLOGY: the use of radiation (such as x-rays) or other imaging technologies (such as ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging) to diagnose or treat disease.
RELEASE: document signed to settle claims and get settlement money.
RESECTABLE: amenable to resection (surgical removal of a diseased portion of a tissue).
RISK FACTOR: something that increases a person’s chances of developing a disease.
SARCOMATOUS MESOTHELIOMA: type of mesothelioma arising from the mesenchymal cells of the mesothelium.
SERPENTINE ASBESTOS: asbestos characterized by curly fibers with a layered or tiered structure. Chrysotile, or white asbestos, is a member of the serpentine group and is also the most common form of asbestos.
SETTLEMENT: resolution of a lawsuit or legal dispute prior to a final court judgment.
SILICA: the chief component of sand and a substance responsible for lung disease and cancer. Silica is not asbestos.
SMALL CELL LUNG CANCER: a type of lung cancer in which the cells are small and round.
SPUTUM: the mucus and other matter brought up from the lungs, bronchi and trachea that one may cough up, spit or swallow. “Sputum” is borrowed directly from the latin “to spit.” It is also called expectoration.
STAGING: the process of finding out whether cancer has spread and if so, how far.
STATE-OF-THE-ART: has several meanings: (1) refers to medical, scientific and technological knowledge that what was reasonably known at the time the product was designed, manufactured or sold; (2) refers to evidence of industry customs, standards, or practices; (3) refers to a defense used by defendants where they claim lack of knowledge of the hazards of asbestos.
STATUTE OF LIMITATIONS: the period after which the right to file a lawsuit expires.
SYNERGISTIC EFFECT: a biologic response to multiple substances where one substance worsens the effect of another substance. The combined effect of the substances acting together is greater than the sum of the effects of the substances acting by themselves. This applies to asbestos and smoking for example.
THORACENTESIS: surgical puncture of the chest wall to remove fluid from the pleural space.
THORACIC: relating to the chest.
THORACOSCOPY: a surgical technique for tissue sampling in which a telescopic instrument (thoracoscope) fitted with a lighting system is inserted through a puncture in the chest wall. The physician can see the tumor and sample it using a forceps-like tool.
TISSUE: It is a broad term that is applied to any group of cells that perform specific functions.
TLV (Threshold Limit Value): refers to airborne concentrations of substances and represents a condition under which it is believed that workers may be repeatedly exposed day-after-day without adverse health effects.
TOXIC AGENT: chemical or physical (for example, asbestos) agents that can cause harmful effects to living organisms.
TOXICOLOGY: study of poisons.
TREMOLITE: a type of asbestos which has flexible fibers.
TRIAL: the examination of facts and law presided over by a judge with authority to hear the matter.
TUMOR: an abnormal mass of tissue that results from excessive cell division that is uncontrolled and progressive. Tumors perform no useful body function. Tumors can be either benign (not cancer) or malignant (cancer).
VERMICULITE: a naturally occurring mineral used for insulation, sometimes found contaminated with asbestos.
VISCERAL PLEURA: portion of the pleura that covers the external surface of the lungs.
WHEEZING: a whistling noise in the chest during breathing when the airways are narrowed or compressed.
WHITE BLOOD CELLS (WBC): refers to a blood cell that does not contain hemoglobin. White blood cells include lymphocytes, neutrophils, eosinophils, macrophages, and mast cells. These cells are made by bone marrow and help the body fight infection and other diseases.
X-RAY: high energy radiation with waves shorter than those of visible light. X-rays possess the properties of penetrating most substances (to varying extents), of acting on a photographic film or plate (permitting radiography), and of causing a fluorescent screen to give off light (permitting fluoroscopy). X-rays are used for making images that help to diagnose disease and to treat
cancer.
Are asbestos fibers visible to the eye ?
If you are in the construction business or employed by an industry that uses products containing asbestos, you may wonder “Are asbestos fibers visible to the eye”? Generally asbestos fibers are too small to be seen by the naked eye. Asbestos becomes dangerous when it has broken down into small fibers and is inhaled. It is nearly impossible to detect the presence of asbestos without taking the material to a lab for testing. A lab technician will put the material under a microscope to search for asbestos fibers. Asbestos does not cause an immediate reaction. It will not cause you to cough, sneeze, or your eyes to water. You cannot see, smell, or taste asbestos. If you skin becomes contaminated with asbestos it will not burn or itch.
Asbestos related diseases have a very long latency period. This is the time frame from when you are first exposed to asbestos until you become ill. Most persons do not become ill for at least ten years after exposure and some not until over forty years later. Asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma are all asbestos related diseases. Asbestosis occurs when asbestos fibers enter the lungs. The body will naturally produce an acid to combat the fibers. However, this acid can cause scarring in the tissue of the lungs and in advanced stages breathing becomes more difficult and painful. Asbestosis was first documented in shipyard workers. Asbestos can also cause lung cancer. If a person smokes and is exposed to asbestos, they have a much greater chance of developing lung cancer. Mesothelioma is a type of cancer that has only been linked to asbestos exposure. It is a cancer of the cells that line the peritoneum (area surrounding the abdominal organs) and the pleura (area outside of the lungs and inside of the ribs).
There is a lot of debate and controversy surrounding which types of asbestos is harmful. Some types of asbestos are thought to be more dangerous than others but all types of asbestos exposure should be avoided. Actinolite, amosite, anthophyllite, crocidolite, chrysotile (white asbestos), and tremolite are all types of asbestos. Chrysotile is the type of asbestos most commonly used in manufacturing products.
Asbestos fibers are not visible to the eye. If you feel you may have been exposed to asbestos, the most common method for testing is a chest x-ray. The x-ray will not show the asbestos fibers but it can spot early signs of lung disease. There is no known cure for asbestos related diseases.
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