How to Prevent Mesothelioma
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), they have banned asbestos use in building materials. However, many houses, buildings, automobiles, and products that were made before the 1980s most likely still contain this dangerous mineral.
Exposure to asbestos is the main cause of contracting mesothelioma.
This is why the best way to lower your chances of contracting the disease is to limit your exposure to the dangerous mineral. Whether at home, in buildings, or at work, remember to take precautions.
There are certain defenses that decrease your risk of developing mesothelioma or any asbestos-related health issue.
Here are a few ways to start:
Avoid Disturbing Asbestos If Possible to Prevent Mesothelioma
Buildings and houses made in the 1960s or 70s most likely contain asbestos because this mineral was not yet banned at the time.
Walls, shingles, pipes, or roofing of older buildings and houses most likely contain asbestos. It is best not to disturb these constructions to avoid exposure. If you suspect the wearing of these walls, contact a professional to help seal or encase the structure or material to prevent the fibers from circulating in the air.
Have an Asbestos Expert Check Your Home
Older homes are more likely to contain asbestos than newer ones. This is because asbestos was not yet banned during the late '90s. So before you decide to remodel your home or office, make sure to call an asbestos abatement expert to check the building first.
It may be unnecessary to remove asbestos in the walls, roof, or ceilings if you aren't touching or disturbing those parts of the building. This will avoid the exposure of asbestos.
It is never a good idea to try and remove the materials containing asbestos by yourself. This is important not just for your own safety but for the safety of your family and other people in the building as well.
Remove Asbestos With Proper Safety Precautions
Call an asbestos remediation or removal professional to remove or seal any item that may contain asbestos. This is a very important step to prevent mesothelioma.
Hiring a Good Mesothelioma Lawyer
If you have already been exposed to asbestos and developed mesothelioma, the next best step to take is to work with a good mesothelioma lawyer
We have listed down the important factors to take into consideration when choosing a mesothelioma lawyer.
The process of mesothelioma treatment is definitely expensive. This is why choosing the best lawyer is essential to help you pursue legal actions and get the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Smoke
Smoking is dangerous to your health. This we've heard again and again because it is true. According to studies cigarette smoking can compound the risk of developing mesothelioma. Additionally, it also compounds your risk of contracting lung cancer and other types of cancer.
Avoid “disturbing” asbestos
If you speculate that there is asbestos in your home or your office, don't try to remove it by yourself. This is dangerous not only for you but for the people you live with.
The best thing to do is to hire a professional asbestos remediator. They will first test, check, and analyze the building before doing any work.
Don't try to sweep, vacuum, drill, or hammer structures that you suspect may contain asbestos. This is an important reminder to prevent asbestos exposure and prevent mesothelioma.
Wear Protective Gear
Those who work under construction, mining, or the electric industry, are at more risk of asbestos exposure. This is why these workers should wear protective gear to prevent exposure to and breathing in asbestos.
The protective gear also includes protection of the whole body in order to avoid getting the particles of asbestos on their clothes, hair, and shoes.
Talk to Your Doctor and Have Regular Check-Ups
There is a 1% of patients with Mesothelioma who have contracted it due to genetics. If you have a history of mesothelioma in the family, you are at increased risk for contracting this cancer. Additionally, exposure to asbestos means that your chances of contracting the cancer are even higher.
Talk to your doctor about early screening to catch symptoms earlier.
To learn more about workplace safety to prevent mesothelioma, click the next page.
