Asbestos Exposure Abroad

Even though its cancer-causing properties have been known for many years, asbestos is still produced in some parts of the world. Fortunately, most industrialized nations, including the United States, carefully regulate its use. Nonetheless, if you have spent a significant amount of time in a nation that uses asbestos, and you believe you were exposed to large amounts of asbestos, you are at risk for asbestos-related diseases.

Asbestos Dangers

The main danger of asbestos comes from inhaling it as dust. Working anywhere near asbestos production or manufacturing can lead to dust inhalation, as can dust from construction work that uses asbestos-containing materials. Unfortunately, these hazards remain relatively common in some parts of the world.

Of the nations that still produce asbestos, Russia accounts for 40% of all asbestos produced. China is in second place with 20%. If you were regularly exposed to construction-related dust in one of these countries (among others), you are at risk.

Past Asbestos Exposure

Remember that any time spent around asbestos, no matter how far in the past, is a risk. Asbestos-related illnesses frequently do not develop until many years after exposure. The lung cancer mesothelioma, which is caused by long-term inhalation of asbestos, commonly takes at least 20 years to appear. There are even been patients who developed no asbestos-related symptoms for 40 or more years after their last exposure.

If you believe you have been exposed to asbestos in the past, seek medical help. Early detection is key for preventing the growth and spread of cancer—even if you have not yet experienced symptoms. In addition, exposure to asbestos dust is very frequently the result of an employer or other organization not taking the necessary steps to protect the public.

Contact Us

The compassionate asbestos and mesothelioma lawyers of Williams-Kherkher will work with you to seek justice for your asbestos exposure. To discuss your case with a lawyer, contact 800-781-3955 today.