Causes of Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is nearly always related to Asbestos exposure. Asbestos is an extremely dangerous material and low exposure levels can trigger Mesothelioma. This means that even family members of asbestos workers are at risk because of the asbestos fibers brought into the home on their clothing.

Scientists have known about asbestos's carcinogenic (cancer-causing) properties since the 1930's, but asbestos was a cheap insulator and fire-proofing material. Corporations continued to put workers and their families at risk for decades after its lethality was discovered.

If you or a family member has worked at the following jobs or with the following materials before the 1980's, then you are at risk. Most victims are involved with asbestos product plants, insulation and shipbuilding. Below is a list of industrial sites, occupations, and products related to asbestos. In addition to workers, family members may be at risk and should be tested.

Industrial Sites
Oil Refineries
Power Plant
Railroad
Residents of towns with former asbestos manufacturing plants
Shipyards
Steel Mills

Workers in Old Buildings
Contractors working on an old building can often stir up asbestos fibers that can poison the workers in the building.

Maritime occupations
Longshoremen
Merchant Marines
U.S. Navy Veterans

Construction Trades & Other Occupations
Automotive Mechanics
Boilermakers
Bricklayers
Carpenters
Electricians
Insulators
Iron Workers
Laborers
Maintenance Workers
Millwrights
Plasterers
Plumbers
Sheet metal Workers
Steam Fitters
Tile Setters
Welders

Partial List of Dangerous Products
acoustical panels/plaster
brake linings
fireproof aprons
fire brick
floor tiles
gasket material
glassblower mitts
pipe covering
insulation