Millions of potential years of life lost due to asbestosis and mesothelioma
At this point, the dangers of asbestos exposure are well known, yet asbestos-related illnesses such as asbestosis and mesothelioma continue to claim thousands of lives each year. A study was recently conducted with the aim of estimating the global burden of asbestos exposure in terms of potential years of life lost to these diseases.
Study Results
According to data collected by the World Health Organization, 128,015 people in 82 countries died of mesothelioma and 13,885 people in 55 countries died of asbestosis between 1994 and 2010. Applying the established Potential Years of Life Lost (PYLL) standard, the researchers concluded that mesothelioma cut a collective total of 2.18 million potential years of life from the population, while asbestosis robbed a total of 180,000 potential years of life. This works out to an average of 17 PYLL for mesothelioma victims and 13 PYLL for asbestosis sufferers. The researchers plan to use the results of this study to increase awareness of the huge benefit that can be gained by eliminating asbestos exposure as a health risk.
Sources of Asbestos Exposure
In the past, many homes and businesses were constructed using asbestos-containing materials. As these materials break down, they release dust and fibers into the air which can lodge in the lungs and cause serious medical problems. Ceiling tiles, floor coverings, roofing materials, insulation, and popcorn ceilings are all prime offenders. Construction and remodeling workers are at particular risk for exposure because they may inadvertently disturb these old materials in the course of a renovation or demolition.
Compensation for Asbestos Exposure
It may take years or even decades for the health effects of asbestos exposure to manifest themselves in any given individual. However, if and when this does occur, it is often possible to trace the disease back to its cause and hold any responsible parties accountable. Countless asbestos lawsuits have been filed against employers who knowingly allowed workers to handle asbestos unprotected, as well as against companies that manufactured dangerous asbestos-containing products and failed to issue proper disclosures and warnings.
Preventing Asbestos Exposure
If you suspect that there are asbestos-containing materials on your property, take steps to prevent exposure now! The best thing to do is to contact a professional asbestos remediation company such as AQHI Inc. We can remove the offending materials safely, effectively, and completely to leave your property cleaner and safer.
