Asbestos

Illinois Mesothelioma Attorneys

Exposure to asbestos can have many medical consequences. The most lethal consequence is mesothelioma, a rare form of cancer associated with working with or around products containing asbestos. Asbestos was used in a wide variety of construction and manufacturing applications for the past 100 years as a flame retardant. These products include: drywall tape, mud and texture coats; floor and ceiling tiles; roofing tars, felts and shingles; insulation; brake pads; caulk; gaskets; as well as hundreds of other products.

The United States Center for Disease Control estimates that currently, 1.3 million construction and general industry workers are potentially being exposed to asbestos. In addition, mesothelioma has a long latency period, meaning a worker first exposed to asbestos may not develop the disease for 20-40 years later. Spouses and family members of workers exposed to asbestos are also at risk for developing mesothelioma.