The main cause of mesothelioma, an aggressive type of cancer, is exposure to asbestos fibers. People usually inhale these fibers, but they could also be ingested, and any type of exposure is potentially dangerous. There is a long latency period, so people are often exposed when they are young, but they may not actually develop mesothelioma until much later.
If you want to reduce your risk, it is important to avoid asbestos. This is why it has been banned in many new building materials, when it used to be commonly used. But can you actually see asbestos fibers? How do you know what to avoid?
Avoiding common sources
Part of the issue is that asbestos fibers are microscopic. You cannot see them with the naked eye. You can see them under a microscope, and there are many tests that can be carried out. If you suspect that you have asbestos fibers in your home or your business, for example, you can send the materials to a lab and they can confirm for you if that is the case.
But since they are so small, the only way to really avoid them is to understand what common sources may look like. Often, these are older building materials, such as those used in the 1970s and before. They could include insulation, which may be used in the walls or to surround pipes. Many old types of bathroom tile also contain asbestos fibers. You should be wary of older buildings, especially during renovation projects.
If you do develop mesothelioma, it is important for you to understand all of the legal options you have at this time.