There is a direct connection between home improvement projects and being exposed to the risks of mesothelioma cancer. Mesothelioma is a cancer of the lung tissue that is caused by exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a chemical used in many homes for construction, insulation, HVAC systems, boiler systems, and more, for its heat-resistant and fire-resistant qualities.
One Australian study found that because of this, 60.5 percent of homeowners were exposed to this chemical during their DIY home improvement projects. Among those 40 percent of their children had been exposed. Mesothelioma would be a real concern for those families. Read more about this condition, and its connection to home improvement projects.
Health Risks of Asbestos During Home Improvements
When someone is exposed to asbestos, and its particles are in the air, those particles can be inhaled or ingested by the renovator. When those particles are ingested, they stay in the body. That leads to scar tissue, and could ultimately result in tumors for lung cancer or mesothelioma.
Asbestosis is another condition that could be caused by this risk.
It’s important to note that asbestos on its own in home improvement projects is often encased or enclosed. When that is the case, that reduces your risk of mesothelioma. When asbestos is disrupted, however, the risk for cancer increases.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma
Symptoms of mesothelioma may not appear for up to 20 years after exposure. These are the most common symptoms of mesothelioma:
- Chest pain
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Nodules under the skin
• Pain in joints and bones at later stages
• Shortness of breath
• Coughing
How to Respond to Asbestos in the Home
If you come across asbestos in the home when you are doing a home improvement project, consult an expert. If the product is not disturbed or damaged, your risk is reduced. If the product is encased or enclosed, there is no risk of asbestos exposure.
Stay away from pipes and systems that have cracks or are damaged. If you see signs of wear and tear, call an asbestos abatement company for a consultation. Be very careful because it is very easy to disturb an older encasement of a product that will contain asbestos. Leave this to the professionals.
Get Legal Assistance
If you are at the stage of your home improvement project where the costs are mounting because you are calling asbestos abatement professionals, you may have a few extra problems on your hand. You may even know of the health risks because of personal health struggles and are just learning how this happened. In any event, when you learn you are exposed to asbestos, you may be entitled to financial compensation. Schedule a free consultation with an asbestos legal specialist, and learn more about what compensation is available to you.
