How Much Asbestos Exposure Is Harmful?

Most people are exposed to low levels of asbestos at some time or another, and the vast majority of people exposed to asbestos won’t develop mesothelioma. However, the latest findings¹ have shown that:

• Even low levels of asbestos exposure can be risky.
• The type of asbestos matters. Chrysotile asbestos has a far greater risk of mesothelioma than amphibole asbestos.
• Higher levels of asbestos exposure increase the risk of mesothelioma.

How Much Asbestos Exposure Will Cause Mesothelioma?

There is no clear-cut answer to this question because several factors can contribute to the development of this deadly cancer. In fact, asbestos exposure is just one potential risk factor. Others that can also increase the chances of developing mesothelioma include (and are not limited to):

• Gene mutations that can make it difficult for the body to fight cancerous cells
• Exposure to radiation, which can occur as part of the treatment for other forms of cancer
• Smoking

How Quickly Does Asbestos Exposure Cause Mesothelioma?

Not quickly at all—it takes several years for asbestos exposure to give rise to mesothelioma. Depending on the level of exposure and the type of asbestos involved, it may take anywhere from 20 to 50 years after asbestos exposure for:

• The symptoms of mesothelioma to become apparent
• A mesothelioma diagnosis to be made

In most cases, mesothelioma is not diagnosed until:

• At least 15 years after asbestos exposure has occurred
• The condition has progressed to stage 3, when symptoms tend to be more distinct, pronounced, and debilitating.

How Can I Minimize My Exposure to Asbestos?

Depending on where and how you exposed to asbestos, some helpful tips for reducing your exposure can include any combination of the following:

• Get the air in your home and/or workplace tested for asbestos if you’re concerned about potential exposure levels.
• Wear the proper protective gear and follow all required safety procedures when working around asbestos.
• Change your clothes and shower after known asbestos exposure. This can limit your future exposure while preventing secondary exposure to your loved ones.
• Get asbestos in an older home or building remediated by trained professionals. Never try to remove asbestos by yourself.
• Fix or get rid of any asbestos-containing products that are damaged.
• Avoid using products that have been reported to contain asbestos, like some talc powders and cosmetics, for example.

How Can I Determine if Asbestos Exposure Caused My Mesothelioma?

Contact the Amaro Law Firm. Our lawyers have vast experience:

• Investigating mesothelioma cases: We know what to look for and how to determine where and when asbestos exposure has occurred. This is key to knowing who may be liable for your mesothelioma and what you need to do to hold them accountable.
  
• Building the strongest possible claims: Our attorneys are skilled at gathering and presenting evidence to set mesothelioma cases up for success.
  
• Helping mesothelioma patients seek financial recoveries: We can help you seek the full recovery you may be entitled to. Generally, mesothelioma compensation includes damages for losses like past and future medical bills and lost earnings. While compensation can’t change a diagnosis, it may help you and your family focus on healing.

Do I Have a Mesothelioma Claim?

Simply contact a mesothelioma lawyer at the Amaro Law Firm. We’re here for you, ready to explain your legal options, answer your questions, and advocate your rights moving forward. 

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1: According to the American Cancer Society