With over 17 deaths linked to asbestos-related illnesses over the past 10 years in Nobles County, residents should always be wary of the potential dangers of asbestos exposure. Nationally, 3,000 new diagnoses of mesothelioma cancer happen every year with most patients only living up to 21 months after.
September 26th is a national day of awareness called Mesothelioma Awareness Day. Information, tips, statistics, and stories will be shared both online and through events across the nation. The goal is that the general public will be able to better recognize potentially dangerous situations in their homes, schools, or work buildings.
Mesothelioma cancer is a rare, preventable cancer that is directly tied to being exposed to asbestos. Asbestos was commonly used to build older homes and workplaces up until the early 1980’s. It was most commonly used in insulation but also was used in windows, pipes, cement, siding, roofing, and more. Once researchers found a link between mesothelioma cancer and asbestos, The United States started to regulate how much asbestos could be used.
Today, it is important to note that asbestos still is not banned in the United States. It is possible that your home or property may contain asbestos if it was built before the early 1980’s. As these homes and buildings age, it is possible that safely installed asbestos will become damaged and if it becomes airborne, there is a high risk for anyone living or working in that property.
Unless you have the proper equipment, do not try and remove any loose asbestos yourself. There are locally trained professionals and inspectors that can come test your home and safely remove the hazard to protect yourself and your family’s health.
Some of the best advice can be to question whether any home, apartment or business space you are thinking about buying or renting has asbestos currently in it. This allows you to ask for it to be removed, or so you can keep a close eye on it to ensure everyone’s safety. If you’re unsure whether your home or building contains asbestos, you can still hire an asbestos inspector to have your home safely checked for harmful asbestos.
If you happen to think you were exposed to asbestos, please see a doctor as soon as possible. Although symptoms can take years to develop, early detection can lead to more successful treatment options and a longer life expectancy.
With over 2,500 deaths due to mesothelioma a year, every person educated on the dangers of asbestos could be a life saved. Readers are invited to participate through their social media on September 26th with the hashtag #EndMeso. In addition, feel free to share any personal stories, findings, with the world, so that everyone is aware of the dangers of asbestos and mesothelioma cancer. Together we can end mesothelioma.
For more information or to further learn what mesothelioma cancer is, visit here: https://www.mesothelioma.com/mesothelioma/
