A recent report published by a California firm has concluded that many consumer products contain a form of asbestos called tremolite asbestos. Tremolite asbestos is a non-commercial form of asbestos and like all other types of asbestos, carries the risk of asbestosis, lung cancer, and malignant mesothelioma. Although the greatest risk of developing one of these diseases applies to people who work in asbestos mines or live near them, tremolite asbestos also poses a risk to consumers of developing mesothelioma.
If you have been exposed to asbestos and have been diagnosed with one of these diseases or conditions, it is important to consult with a New Mexico asbestos attorney who can provide your family crucial advice. In many cases, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your injuries.
According to the California study, well-known occupations with a risk for asbestos exposure such as career auto mechanics have an estimated risk of exposure to tremolite of 0.028 f/cc per year. Surprisingly, however, consumers who regularly use items such as potting soil or other gardening products are exposed to a higher amount of tremolite asbestos – 0.034 f/cc per year. Even though this risk may be less than that of asbestos miners, enough asbestos exists in consumer products for concern. Further, the more asbestos-containing products a consumer uses regularly, the greater their lifetime risk of developing life-threatening diseases such as asbestosis and mesothelioma. Researchers estimate that every year 2500 – 3000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with mesothelioma.
For more information, or if you or a loved one has been exposed to asbestos and has developed one of these life-threatening conditions, contact an experienced New Mexico mesothelioma attorney at the Branch Law Firm for an immediate consultation.