Cancer Caused By Fiberglass?

The lung cancer mesothelioma is associated almost exclusively with inhalation of asbestos fibers. Asbestos-producing companies knew the dangers of asbestos for decades before that information finally became known to the public. Now that asbestos is largely banned in developed countries, other materials such as fiberglass have begun to take its place. Do these new materials also carry risks?

A significant part of the connection between asbestos fibers and mesothelioma is related to the size of asbestos fibers. Asbestos is derived from a mineral that fractures into threads. This means that asbestos can be woven into a fire-resistant cloth. However, the same physical properties that cause it to form large threads also cause it to form microscopic ones.

Asbestos dust contains fibers that are a thousand times thinner than human hair. When these microscopic threads enter the lungs, they are too small for the body to remove them easily and become permanently stuck. Over the years, these fibers cause dangerous mutations in the DNA of lung cells. This broken DNA is what causes cancer to develop and grow.

Now that asbestos’ cancer-causing properties are known, companies have turned to other materials for insulation. Fiberglass, as the name suggests, is another material that can form microscopic fibers and resist heat. There is evidence that fiberglass exposure can also lead to microscopic particles in the lungs and potentially lung cancer.

Companies that knowingly hit the dangers of asbestos exposure from the public are being brought to justice. However, the removal of asbestos from the market does not mean that other materials are free of risks.

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If you have developed mesothelioma because of exposure to asbestos or similar materials, you can take legal action to seek compensation for your medical bills and suffering. To discuss your case with an experienced lawyer, contact the compassionate mesothelioma lawyers of Williams-Kherkher today at 800-781-3955.