In 2015, we’re well aware of the dangers associated with asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral. Decades ago, the mineral was used in cigarettes, insulation and roofing due to its flame-resistant capabilities, but it also had more commercial uses. The light, white and fluffy nature of the fibers made it perfect for creating artificial snow. Prior more
There was a time when asbestos was seemingly in everything. Among other things, it was used in building materials such as pipe covering, cements, gaskets, pumps, clothing, gloves, and shipbuilding materials. This was due to its durability and high resistance to heat and corrosion as well as the fact it could be so easily processed. more
There was a time when asbestos was seemingly in everything. Among other things, it was used in building materials such as pipe covering, cements, gaskets, pumps, clothing, gloves, and shipbuilding materials. This was due to its durability and high resistance to heat and corrosion as well as the fact it could be so easily processed. more
Asbestos exposure is commonly associated with occupation, specifically in mills and plants, but many miss the risks found in everyday products. Even though the Environmental Protection Agency began regulating the use of asbestos products more than thirty years ago, most of these items still linger in the present. Aside from construction products, including asbestos roofing more
Asbestos has been a threat for centuries more than people realize. Modern use didn’t expand until the Industrial Revolution, but its discovery dates back to 2500 B.C. as a way to strengthen ceramic pots and utensils. Since then, it’s been used in many products, including tiles, insulation, crayons and clothing. Because most asbestos poisoning cases more
Because the Environmental Protection Agency began limiting the use of asbestos in the 1970s, many believe it is a disease of generations past. Unfortunately, it’s common use and the lack of a worldwide ban means it still poses significant risks. In fact, many predict resurgence. In 1990, a convention met to examine the threat of more
Chemotherapy remains one of the most effective treatments for mesothelioma. Because there is no cure, it works to prolong the lives of patients. Unfortunately, even the most effective methods can become inadequate as treatments continue. A current clinical trial is attempting to extend the usefulness period of chemotherapy and in turn extend the lives of more
Mesothelioma is a rare but deadly cancer, killing more than 3,000 people each year in the United States. Unlike many diseases, mesothelioma is wholly preventable because it’s only caused by asbestos exposure. After diagnosis, patients typically live around one year. When mesothelioma presents itself, 90 percent of patients experience chest pain and/or shortness of breath. more
It’s likely at some point in your life you’ve seen a mesothelioma commercial. Attorneys attempt to reach victims of asbestos exposure through visuals, large text and repeating messages. The goal is to deliver the message quickly and effectively for retention. While occasionally mocked, law firms have a reason for such tactics. Once diagnosed, mesothelioma patients more
The Mayo Clinic exists to provide the latest technology and different treatment options to those suffering from many ailments and diseases. Clinical trials are done to determine new and improved methods to make sure patients are receiving the most effective care. The Rochester, Minnesota, location is currently running several mesothelioma clinical trials, including one using more
A recent mesothelioma study found the addition of bevacizumab to the chemotherapy treatment of pemetrexed plus cisplatin may increase the survival rate in patients. From 2008 to 2014, patients were given the standard treatment in 21-day increments for six cycles, with some receiving bevacizumab. The addition of bevacizumab increased survival to a median of 19.8 more
There was a time when asbestos was seemingly in everything. Among other things, it was used in building materials such as pipe covering, cements, gaskets, pumps, clothing, gloves, and shipbuilding materials. This was due to its durability and high resistance to heat and corrosion as well as the fact it could be so easily processed. more
As it currently stands, mesothelioma is an incurable form of cancer that affects the lining of organs. Caused only by asbestos, mesothelioma takes decades to develop and once symptoms present themselves, has typically progressed to a Stage 4 cancer. Those diagnosed typically survive less than two years. Current treatments involve surgery and chemotherapy, but they more
Twenty years ago, Lung Cancer Awareness Month began as a day to increase public consciousness around the most deadly cancer in the United States. As the movement continued to grow, one day expanded to a month of people coming together in communities around the world to spread information about lung cancer through events, social media, […]
In the early 1970s, a series of lawsuits forced companies to admit responsibility for exposing workers to the carcinogen known as asbestos. Used as insulation, tiling, roofing and more, this fiber was found all around steel mills, chemical and power plants, putting hundreds of thousands of workers at risk for asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma and […]