Asbestos Cancer
Even though various types of cancer can be related to asbestos exposure, the following cancers have been linked most strongly in the medical literature (in order of strength of association):
MESOTHELIOMA
(ASBESTOS-SPECIFIC CANCER OF THE LINING OF THE LUNG OR
ABDOMINAL CAVITY)
LUNG CANCERS (ALL TYPES)
LARYNGEAL CANCER / ORAL CANCER
ESOPHAGEAL CANCER
COLON/ GASTRIC CANCER
LYMPHOMA (B-CELL)
We have seen instances where a railroader’s wife or surviving children,
not knowing that his cancer was related to his work, failed to act within the 3 year legal
time limit, forever barring the family from receiving compensation.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis (as-bes-TOE-sis) is a breathing disorder caused by inhaling asbestos fibers. Prolonged accumulation of these fibers in your lungs can cause scarring of lung tissue and shortness of breath. Asbestosis symptoms can range from mild to severe, and usually don't appear until many years after exposure. Asbestos is a natural mineral product that's resistant to heat and corrosion. It was used extensively in the past in products such as insulation, fire-retardant materials, cement, and some vinyl floor tiles.
Most people with asbestosis acquired it on the job before the federal government began regulating the use of asbestos and asbestos products in the mid-1970s. Today, its handling is strictly regulated. Acquiring asbestosis is extremely unlikely if you follow your employer's safety procedures. Treatment focuses on relieving your symptoms.
