Choosing a profession is a difficult process. When it comes to selecting a specific career field, individuals must consider not only the salary expectations for the position, but also the risks and benefits of working in a unique area. Despite drops in the housing market, jobs in the field of construction and building continue to be quite popular. Those who are considering entering the construction market may want to want avoid jobs that require significant amounts of asbestos exposure, due to the significant health risks posed by the compound. Asbestos can not only lead to certain types of cancer, but has also been linked to pulmonary disease and other chronic health conditions.
While individuals who remove asbestos on a regular basis are exposed to a number of serious health risks, the development of cancer is perhaps one of the most frightening. Asbestos has been associated with various types of cancer, including those which affect the lungs, gastrointestinal tract, throat, and even ovaries. Builders and construction workers who remove asbestos should familiarize themselves with the warning signs of these types of cancers. When identified and treated early, the severity of the cancer can decrease quite substantially.
Though cancer is a serious health consequence of repeated exposure to asbestos, it is not the only risk faced by those in the building or construction industries. In fact, according to the Veterans Administration, asbestos is shown to be related to the development of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, a progressive disease which can make breathing difficult. As one might guess, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease—or COPD—develops primarily through the inhalation of asbestos particles, which may occur during asbestos removal and disposal. Unlike other health conditions, COPD is considered to be chronic in nature, and typically cannot be reversed with medical therapy.
Finally, recent research suggests that builders and construction workers who are exposed to asbestos on a regular basis may be more likely to develop heart disease than those who do not face similar toxins. Though a variety of different types of heart disease may be caused by asbestos, congestive heart failure is the most common. Unfortunately, there is no reversible therapy for congestive heart failure at this time, making it a serious condition which should not be ignored. Smoking increases the risk of congestive heart failure for those who are exposed to asbestos to even greater levels.
Obviously, asbestos exposure is a serious health condition that should not be ignored. But are those who work in the construction industry doomed to develop these health risks simply because of their field of employment? Most experts agree that as long as respirators are used during the removal of asbestos, the risk for the conditions described above diminishes quite substantially. Before considering employment in the field of asbestos removal, individuals should be sure to obtain licensure in the state in which they work. Failure to do so cannot only be life-threatening, but may also lead to high fines and other unwanted penalties.
If you think you have suffered injury or poor health as a result of Asbestos Exposure it is highly recommended that you consult Gemma Law immediately. They have experience in cases regarding asbestos exposure and its consequence on your health.
