By now it is widely known that exposure to asbestos, an naturally occurring product used for its insulating and fire resistance properties, can cause such devastating diseases as lung cancer and mesothelioma. But, what is it about asbestos which is so dangerous to the human body? Why does it cause such debilitating diseases? Let’s take a look at the current science on the subject.
According to the American Cancer Society there are two kinds of asbestos: chrysotile – which is also known as white asbestos and is often used in industrial applications, and amphibole – which is fibrous and composed of needle-like threads. Both of these types of asbestos are known to cause cancer. For years scientists knew that asbestos caused cancer, but were unsure of the exact mechanism which led to this result. But in 2010, researchers at the Hawai’i Cancer Research Center published this paper, which proposed a direct link between asbestos and cancer.
According to the paper, asbestos kills cells when it comes in contact with them, but in the process it causes a condition called “programmed cell necrosis” in which the cells release a chemical which causes inflammation. It is this inflammation which leads to the production and replication of cancerous cells.
Though it may seem like asbestos related disease is a problem of the past, nothing could be farther from the truth. It is estimated that millions of Americans continue to work in buildings which have been treated with products containing the deadly substance. If you, or anyone you know, has suffered from an asbestos related disease – such as malignant lung cancer or mesothelioma – call the attorneys of Brayton Purcell, LLP, at (800) 598-0314 today for a free consultation regarding getting you the compensation you deserve.
