The Relationship Between Asbestos & Mesothelioma
Posted in Asbestos Removal, on December 03, 2021
Breathing in asbestos mineral fibers can lead to such fibers being trapped in the lungs, where they can remain for a long period of time. This can ultimately lead to breathing issues or serious health problems, with cancer being one of them. The most common form of cancer associated with asbestos exposure is mesothelioma, which is why asbestos removal in Mississauga must be treated with urgency and diligence.
Eight out of 10 people diagnosed with mesothelioma trace asbestos exposure back to their disease, with the average life expectancy of a person with mesothelioma being 12 to 22 months. The numbers may be startling, but thanks to an expanded knowledge around the subject and asbestos testing in Mississauga, experts have the upperhand in treating the disease.
How Does Asbestos Cause Mesothelioma?
According to the American Lung Association, scientists don’t know for certain what causes mesothelioma. What they do know is that there are a number of factors that are linked to increasing the risk for developing the cancer, with one of them being asbestos exposure.
Asbestos fibers, when inhaled, can travel down small airways and irritate the lung lining. Such irritation can lead to inflammation and damage that can result in the creation of abnormal cancer cells. Cancer Care Ontario notes that 816 Ontarians died from mesothelioma from 2012 to 2016.
Although the use of asbestos fibers as insulation and for fire-retardant materials has been a discontinued practice in the construction industry since the 1990s, the fibers still remain in many old homes and buildings. Asbestos removal in Mississauga can not only prevent people from developing mesothelioma, but it can save lives too. If you’re worried about asbestos on your property, Canada’s Restoration Services offers fast and accurate 3rd party asbestos testing in Mississauga.
Who is Most At Risk for Mesothelioma?
While anyone with a history of asbestos exposure is at risk of developing mesothelioma, Asbestos.com said that the typical mesothelioma patient is a man over the age of 65 who comes from a blue-collar or military background.
Men are 4.6 times more likely to be diagnosed with mesothelioma than women, and of all the diagnosed patients, more than 90% are white. For people older than 60, the risk of developing mesothelioma is 10 times higher than people younger than 40.
Who is At Risk for Asbestos Exposure?
Construction, firefighting, manufacturing, mining and milling, chemical refining, power generation, shipbuilding and military service are just some of the occupations with the greatest risk to asbestos exposure. Occupations in manual labour and the skilled trades are especially at risk of exposure. Many older buildings can become hazardous during home and commercial renovation, because when asbestos-containing materials are cut, sanded, drilled or disturbed, the microscopic fibers make their way into the air.
Prevent Asbestos Exposure & Related Illnesses With Asbestos Removal
Asbestos testing in Mississauga can not only prevent the development of mesothelioma, but it can also ward off any other asbestos-related illnesses or diseases. Workers who are concerned about asbestos exposure in their workplace should discuss the issue with their employers. It’s important that workers use approved, protective equipment provided, such as respirators, eyewear, and disposable coveralls. At home, if you suspect that asbestos is present, the best way to deal with the situation is by getting in contact with a trusted restoration company, such as Canada’s Restoration Services.
Canada's Restoration Services has years of experience conducting asbestos removal in Mississauga. Their process includes inspections and third-party lab testing to help identify any asbestos-containing materials on your property, as well as the level of danger it presents before moving onto a full-scale asbestos removal.
