Asbestos exposure remains a major public health concern, particularly for people who work in high-risk industries. Despite regulations being in place, many individuals continue to suffer from serious illnesses linked to asbestos. If you or someone you care about has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, consulting a New York asbestos attorney can greatly help you obtain justice and compensation.
What Is Asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral valued for its strength, heat resistance, and insulating capabilities. Its fire-resistant properties made it a common material in construction, shipbuilding, automotive production, and various other industries, with widespread use peaking in the mid-20th century. Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers, however, has been linked to severe health complications, which is why strict regulations on its use have been enforced.
What Are the Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure?
Asbestos exposure can cause life-threatening diseases, including:
Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma is an uncommon yet aggressive cancer that mainly targets the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. It occurs after long-term exposure to asbestos fibers, which get trapped in the mesothelium and gradually lead to cellular mutations. Its symptoms include: symptoms:
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
- Persistent cough
- Unexplained weight loss.
This disease is often diagnosed at an advanced stage, making treatment challenging and primarily focused on symptom management and extending the patient’s quality of life.
Asbestosis
Asbestosis is a long-term lung condition resulting from inhaling asbestos fibers, which causes scarring of lung tissue and breathing problems. The severity of asbestosis varies, but the most common symptoms are:
- Persistent coughing
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Cubbing of fingers
Asbestosis significantly impairs lung function and can contribute to other severe conditions, including heart failure in advanced cases.
Lung Cancer
Exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of developing lung cancer, particularly among smokers. Asbestos-related lung cancer develops in the lung tissue, unlike mesothelioma, which impacts the mesothelial lining. Symptoms include:
- Persistent cough
- Wheezing
- Coughing up blood
- Fatigue
- Chest pain
The prognosis depends on the stage of detection, but individuals exposed to asbestos often develop lung cancer decades after their initial exposure.
Other Respiratory Complications
Prolonged asbestos exposure can lead to several other lung conditions, including pleural plaques, which are thickened areas of lung tissue, and pleural effusion, which is the buildup of excess fluid around the lungs. These conditions can cause chest pain, reduced lung function, and difficulty breathing. While not always fatal, they indicate asbestos-related lung damage and may lead to further complications.
What Are the Industries with High Asbestos Exposure Risks?
Some jobs carry a greater risk of asbestos exposure because of the materials used and the work environments involved. These occupations include:
- Construction and demolition workers – Many older buildings in New York contain asbestos, exposing workers during renovations or demolitions.
- Shipyard and dock workers – Asbestos was extensively used in shipbuilding, leading to exposure among shipyard employees.
- Firefighters – When older buildings catch fire, asbestos fibers can become airborne, which, in turn, increases inhalation risks.
- Factory workers – Many industrial plants used asbestos in machinery and insulation materials.
- Power plant employees – Former workers in power generation facilities that used asbestos as insulation or fireproofing were also exposed to asbestos, which put them at risk of asbestos-related conditions.
How Has Asbestos Regulations in New York Evolved Over the Years?
New York has implemented several laws and regulations to minimize asbestos exposure and protect workers. Key measures include strict asbestos abatement procedures, workplace safety requirements, and legal avenues for affected individuals. Despite these efforts, asbestos exposure remains a serious concern. Nationally, asbestos-related diseases cause between 12,000 to 15,000 deaths annually — proof of the ongoing risks associated with asbestos fibers.
While New York has taken steps to mitigate people’s exposure, the presence of asbestos in older buildings and industrial sites means individuals are still at risk. In many cases, legal action is necessary.
Legal Recourse for Asbestos Victims in New York
You may be entitled to compensation if you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness. Legal options include:
- Personal injury lawsuits – File a lawsuit to hold companies responsible for endangering workers through asbestos exposure.
- Wrongful death claims – These claims seek compensation for families of those who have passed away due to asbestos-related diseases.
- Asbestos trust fund claims – Many companies that used asbestos have established trust funds to compensate victims.
Working with an experienced New York asbestos attorney like Keith D. Silverstein & Associates can help ease these complex legal processes for you and maximize your compensation.
Why Choose Keith D. Silverstein & Associates?
At Keith D. Silverstein & Associates, we have extensive experience handling asbestos-related cases. We’re dedicated to securing justice and compensation for victims.
Our firm has a proven track record of successfully representing clients in asbestos litigation, securing the compensation they deserve. We provide personalized legal support, ensuring every client receives dedicated attention and guidance tailored to their unique case. Rest assured, we fight tirelessly to hold negligent parties accountable and achieve justice for asbestos victims.Don’t hesitate to take legal action if you or a loved one has been affected by asbestos exposure. Contact Keith D. Silverstein & Associates today for a consultation.
