Many are well-acquainted with the risks asbestos exposure poses re developing malignant mesothelioma, but a new published study now indicates that asbestos workers may also be more prone to colorectal, esophageal, and liver cancers.
Asbestos & Colorectal Cancer
Specifically, doctors at the University of Caen measured cancer incidence amongst asbestos plant workers between the years of 1978 to 2009 and found that, in addition to mesothelioma, the workers had much higher rates of colorectal cancer as well as elevated risk for developing esophageal and liver cancers.
Men who had been exposed to asbestos for over 25 years were found to be especially prone to colorectal cancer. Doctors hypothesize that colorectal cancer is caused when the workers potentially ingest asbestos fibers through their mouth, and these fibers then get lodged in the gastrointestinal tract, causing the cancer.
Other Types of Cancers
There also appeared to be an especially high rate of peritoneal mesothelioma (affects the lining of the abdomen) for women. In addition, the results of the study found a link between long-duration asbestos exposure and cancer of the esophagus, as well as a possible association with the small intestine and liver cancers in men. Of course, if asbestos fibers are accidentally ingested by workers and enter the mouth, eventually causing colorectal cancer by lodging themselves in the gastrointestinal tract, they can also lodge themselves in the esophagus, causing cancer in that area as well.
Workers at Risk in U.S.
These new findings only strengthen the need to end all exposure to asbestos. Yet there are still plenty of U.S. workers who are exposed to asbestos on a regular basis, such as construction workers (especially demolition workers and those who perform renovations on buildings built before the 1970s) and firefighters (fibers can be released into the air when older buildings burn). Others exposed include painters and roofers.
Contact Our Asbestos Attorneys for Help
Sadly, because doctors have not known about the risk of asbestos exposure and these multiple cancers, many victims have likely passed away due to contracting colorectal cancer from asbestos and been unable to bring a claim. However, this new study (and others) are changing that, and will arguably make it easier for victims to bring claims to recover damages for their injuries.
Many individuals and their families have filed successful mesothelioma lawsuits against asbestos manufacturers, securing compensation for the physical and emotional devastation that can result from a prognosis and other asbestos-related diseases.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a deadly and aggressive disease related to asbestos exposure, or are experiencing symptoms of asbestos exposure, a lawyer with Harrell & Nowak, serving New Orleans and surrounding communities can help you secure the compensation you deserve. Contact an attorney at our office today to learn how you and your loved ones can receive maximum compensation in the wake of a cancer diagnosis due to asbestos exposure.