Today, scientists and medical professionals are well aware of the dangers of asbestos. One of the greatest risks is that it can lead to a type of cancer known as mesothelioma. This is typically in the chest cavity or the abdomen, and it has a very high fatality rate.
But if asbestos is so dangerous to people that remediation teams have to wear hazmat suits and special air filters so that they can breathe, why was the product used in the first place? After all, it was very common in previous decades, which is why it can still be found in many older homes and structures today. Why were people using it if the risk level was so high?
It is heat resistant
One of the top reasons for asbestos use is that it does not burn. This high level of heat resistance made it excellent for insulation. It was often used around ducts and pipework because it was not a fire hazard, which was thought to make homes safer.
It is highly durable
It is also a very strong and durable substance. This is why you have products like asbestos cement and why it was often used in tiles and other materials. This durability was highly prized in construction projects.
Mesothelioma has a long latency period
Finally, the latency period between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma can be decades long. Someone could be exposed in their 30s but not develop mesothelioma until they are in their 60s or 70s.
Because of this long latency period, the connection between exposure and mesothelioma was not immediately obvious. People just saw the benefits of a durable, heat-resistant material and did not understand the risks that it posed.
These risks are clear now, and many people do suffer from mesothelioma and other related disorders. It is important for them to understand all their legal options.