Exposure to asbestos can eventually cause mesothelioma, harmful cancer that can jeopardize your quality of life and life expectancy. If you work in a high-risk industry, the likelihood of exposure increases significantly.
When you understand how to best protect yourself against harmful carcinogens, you might lower your risks of developing mesothelioma. However, avoiding exposure to asbestos at all is difficult to come by.
Identifying high-risk careers
High-risk careers can include construction, oil refining and shipbuilding. Asbestos exposure could also impact excavators, tile setters, painters, floor coverers and building inspectors. If you work in a high-risk industry, taking time to learn about the dangers of asbestos exposure and how it could impact your health can help you protect yourself.
Protecting yourself from exposure
Arguably the most effective way to protect yourself is to wear protective gear. This might include coveralls, aprons, shoe covers and disposable lab coats. Respirators, safety glasses and a hard hat can also increase your protection from carcinogens. Take precautions not to contaminate your home with asbestos. If you think you might have contaminated your clothing with asbestos at work, dispose of your clothing in an airtight bag. Washing clothing may only exacerbate and strengthen asbestos fibers while also exposing them to other surfaces.
Treating symptoms of mesothelioma
If you show signs of mesothelioma, you will want to seek medical care immediately. According to The Mayo Clinic, mesothelioma treatment may involve surgery, radiation, chemotherapy or clinical trials. The impact of your exposure can affect many areas of your life and could ultimately end your career. Catching mesothelioma at an early stage could keep it from taking your life.
Educating yourself about asbestos exposure and its consequences is an excellent start to protecting yourself. Your knowledge combined with your observance of safety precautions can improve your protection.