Asbestos derives its meaning from the Ancient Greeks, meaning "inextinguishable," because of its harmful biological effects. A person who is exposed to asbestos may contract a disease known as asbestosis. This respiratory disease scars the tissue in the lungs. The lungs are prevented from freely exchanging gases, as well as, expanding and contracting properly.
Additionally, Lung Cancer or Mesothelioma
can develop. Lung Cancer and Mesothelioma are highly aggressive diseases that
are usually the result of exposure to asbestos that has occurred over a long
period of time. Treatment options are expanding but there is currently no cure.
Discovery
of the Harmful Effects of Asbestos
Asbestos was first diagnosed in 1924 when
a young woman died in her twenties after being exposed. Eventually, studies
performed on English workers showed that asbestos presented a real risk and
exposure could cause sickness and even death.
Unfortunately, the United States
did not act on this information immediately. Workers continued to be exposed to
this harmful substance and it would be years before the extent of the damage
was know. This harmful substance particularly affected workers in specialized
occupation including Naval Veterans, fire-fighters, shipyard workers, brake
mechanics, steam fitters and construction workers.
People who have worked in these
occupations may be particularly vulnerable to contract asbestosis or another
asbestos-related disease because they were often in close contact with it.