You might assume that the chance of developing an asbestos-related cancer is long gone. That’s not the case, however. One example is the risk of contracting it while renovating old buildings, as many still contain asbestos hidden under flooring, in ceiling tiles and behind walls.
Another example is the recent product recall of a children’s toy due to concerns over possible asbestos contamination. Knowing how much small children love to put toys in their mouths, the dangers are obvious — as is the absurdity of how long these products have been allowed on the market.
Various industries keep lobbying for asbestos use
Many countries said a definite no to asbestos some time ago, with bans in place in 60 of them. Here in the US, the previous administration moved to strengthen protections by putting a comprehensive ban in place, only for the Environmental Protection Agency to announce in June 2025 that it would revisit the rule because of concerns that the ban might have gone too far. A month later, they decided they would let the ban stand, thankfully.
It’s no secret that there is considerable lobbying from certain industry groups who want to continue using asbestos. So it’s likely that in years to come we will continue to see people suffering from asbestos-related cancers that should never have occurred.
If you discover you have mesothelioma, it is likely due to something that happened in your past, rather than your present, as the symptoms typically take many years to present. With the appropriate legal help, you may still be able to hold those responsible to account.