Hairdryers And The Risk Of Mesothelioma

Malignant mesothelioma is a cancer that develops in the mesothelium, the protective lining that envelops internal organs. The most common mesothelioma begins in the pleura, the outer lining of the lungs and internal chest wall. Exposure to asbestos is the only known cause of mesothelioma. Most mesothelioma victims worked where they inhaled asbestos fibers or were exposed to asbestos dust. Far too many employers and manufacturers who use asbestos have failed over the years to warn people of the dangers and have failed to take appropriate steps to keep employees and others safe. Despite a decline in asbestos use over the last four decades, people are still being diagnosed with mesothelioma. If you are one of them, you may qualify to receive compensation.

The January 2015 issue of the International Journal of Occupational and Environmental Health highlights the potential link between the frequent use of hairdryers and a heightened risk of mesothelioma. The same qualities that make asbestos a good insulator in construction products also make it ideal as an insulator and heat shield in hairdryers; hundreds of models were once made with asbestos. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission recalled hairdryers that use asbestos in 1979, but many continued to use them. Asbestos crumbles as it deteriorates, and mesothelioma can take years to develop, so people who worked with these hairdryers years ago, in some cases, are only now being diagnosed with mesothelioma.

Older people who worked around hairdryers when they were younger should be particularly aware of the risk of mesothelioma and learn the symptoms. Mesothelioma victims in the Chicago area can seek compensation with the help of an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer. You may be able to recover damages for your medical treatment and related expenses. Help is available for mesothelioma victims, but you should speak to an experienced Chicago personal injury lawyer about your case as quickly as possible.