Second-Hand Asbestos Exposure

The dangers of asbestos exposure are not limited to those who worked directly with or around the carcinogenic material. Family members of those exposed to asbestos on a regular basis are also at risk of developing mesothelioma or lung cancer via second-hand asbestos exposure.

If you or a loved one suffers from mesothelioma or asbestos-related lung cancer, a New York asbestos lawyer can be reached from The Williams Law Firm, P.C. We are here to fight for fair compensation and help you through this challenging experience. We’ve recovered millions in relief for our clients and are ready to assess your legal options.

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THOSE AT RISK FOR SECOND-HAND ASBESTOS EXPOSURE

Second-hand asbestos exposure—also referred to as passive asbestos exposure, secondary asbestos exposure, and take-home asbestos exposure—most often affects spouses and children of those who worked in occupations with high asbestos exposure risk.

Families of individuals who worked in the following industries between the 1940s and the 1980s may be especially vulnerable to second-hand asbestos exposure:

• AEROSPACE
• AUTOMOTIVE
• CONSTRUCTION
• ENERGY/OIL AND GAS
• MILITARY, ESPECIALLY THE U.S. NAVY
• PLUMBING
• RAILROAD/SUBWAY
• SHIPBUILDING/SHIPPING
• TEXTILE MANUFACTURING

Those who resided near sites where asbestos was mined, used for industrial purposes, or utilized in the manufacture of certain products also face a risk for second-hand asbestos exposure.

HOW SECOND-HAND ASBESTOS EXPOSURE OCCURS

When asbestos is broken apart, it releases tiny fibrous particles that can cling to hair and clothing. These asbestos fibers are easily transferred to others and it is these particulates that can accumulate in the lungs, where they lead to scarring and the cellular mutations that cause mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Because workers were often unaware of the dangers of asbestos, or even that they were working with asbestos, their family members were likewise exposed without the knowledge that by simply handling a spouse’s laundry or hugging a parent on a regular basis they were at risk for developing mesothelioma or lung cancer. These asbestos-related cancers have latency periods of decades, sometimes upward of 40 or 50 years, which makes life-saving treatment essentially impossible.

If you’re a family member of someone who worked with asbestos and you experience lung cancer or mesothelioma symptoms, it’s advisable to schedule a medical evaluation as soon as possible and alert your physician to the possibility of second-hand asbestos exposure.

Long-Term Health Risks of Second-Hand Asbestos Exposure

The dangers of asbestos exposure have long been associated with individuals working directly with the material. However, those who are exposed indirectly may be affected as well. Second-hand asbestos exposure, often experienced by family members of workers or individuals living near asbestos-contaminated areas, can pose serious long-term health risks.  

Understanding these potential risks is critical, not only for those who may have been exposed but also for their loved ones. Some of the long-term health risks that victims of second-hand asbestos exposure may be at risk of developing include the following:

• Mesothelioma: This is a rare and aggressive form of lung cancer affecting those who have been exposed to asbestos. Individuals who have suffered second-hand asbestos exposure may be at risk of developing this terrible disease for up to 30 years after the date of the initial exposure. Throughout this time period, their risk of developing mesothelioma never decreases.

• Other Forms of Cancer: When asbestos fibers are inhaled, the fibers can become lodged in various parts of the body and remain there for a long period of time. This can lead to a person developing various forms of cancers as a result of their second-hand exposure to the harmful mineral.
• Asbestosis: This is a chronic lung disease resulting in severe respiratory complications that occurs after a person is directly, or indirectly exposed to asbestos.

If you have suffered second-hand exposure to asbestos, you have the right to pursue justice for the losses you and your loved ones may have suffered. With the help of Attorney Joe Williams, you can build a strong personal injury claim and pursue the fair compensation you are owed.

Recognizing Symptoms of Second-Hand Asbestos Exposure

The effects of asbestos exposure are often associated with those who work directly with the material, but second-hand exposure can be just as harmful. Recognizing the early symptoms of second-hand asbestos exposure is essential for seeking timely medical attention and potentially mitigating long-term health risks. 

Some of the common symptoms of second-hand asbestos exposure to look out for are as follows:

• Coughing: If you or a loved one has been suffering from a lingering cough that worsens over time, this may be a sign of second-hand asbestos exposure. Additionally, if you are coughing up blood, this may be a symptom and you should seek immediate medical help.
• Shortness of breath: A common early sign of asbestos-related illness is when a person is dealing with shortness of breath. This can often be attributed to certain lung diseases caused by the exposure to the harmful mineral.
• Chest pain: Experiencing sharp or sudden chest pains, or chronic chest pain, can be a symptom of second-hand asbestos exposure.
• Fatigue: If you or a loved one has been feeling tired a lot of the time, or is more drowsy than what would be considered normal, this, coupled with other common symptoms, could be a symptom of second-hand asbestos exposure.
• Weight loss: Unexplained and sudden weight loss is a common symptom of exposure to the harmful mineral known as asbestos.
• Swelling: If you or a loved one is experiencing unexplained swelling in the face or neck, this may be associated with exposure to asbestos.
• Loss of appetite: This is a possible sign of asbestos-related diseases, especially for those that are cancerous.
• Hoarseness: If you or a loved one is experiencing extreme hoarseness or difficulty swallowing, this could be a potential symptom of second-hand asbestos exposure.

While many of these symptoms on their own may not be a cause for immediate concern, experiencing many of them together can indicate a serious health issue. It is important that you diligently monitor your health if you have been exposed to asbestos, either directly or indirectly, and notify a doctor if you recognize these symptoms. 

In addition to looking out for your health, it is also important you consider your next step in regards to pursuing justice. Our trusted asbestos exposure attorney will fight for you and your rights by helping you build a strong case. To understand how our law firm can help you pursue the justice you are owed after suffering second-hand exposure to asbestos, contact us today.

IF YOU HAVE RECEIVED A DIAGNOSIS, THEN THE TIME TO ACT IS NOW. CALL OUR AWARD-WINNING NEW YORK ASBESTOS ATTORNEY AT (855) 575-6376 TODAY TO START EXPLORING YOUR LEGAL OPTIONS.