Asbestos, Cancer, and Shipyard Workers

Asbestos exposure can take place in a number of various methods, but most people are exposed to asbestos by means of workplace or jobsite exposure. There are several various occupations that could improve the danger of exposure to asbestos. Construction and power plant workers, along with metal workers and demolition crews are among those who have an elevated risk of exposure to asbestos. Cancer, and the threat of exposure related with these professions pales in comparison to risk of cancer and of exposure skilled by shipbuilders and other shipyard workers.

For decades, asbestos was used to insulate various portions of ships. The product’s all-natural insulative and fire-proofing qualities made it a logical option for this use. Asbestos was used to coat steam pipes, incinerators, and boilers amongst other high-temperature parts of ships.

Prior to the mid-1970s most workers were unaware of the possible dangers of asbestos exposure and frequently worked with the material in poorly ventilated regions with tiny or no protection from the hazardous fibers.

A study conducted by the Mt. Sinai School of Medicine located that 86% of shipyard workers with over 20 years in the field were affected by some form of asbestos-associated illness. Asbestos, cancer, and other well being complications are now thought of to be straight linked.

If you or a loved worked in a shipyard during the time that asbestos was typically used, among WWII and the Korean War, it is important to be tested. It can take decades for signs and symptoms and ailments to arise from exposure to asbestos, but as with most with most illness early detection can have an huge influence on the prognosis of the affected person.