Mesothelioma Prevention
Obviously, with the inhalation of asbestos being the greatest risk factor and prime cause of mesothelioma, the best way to prevent the development of mesothelioma is to limit one’s exposure to asbestos or take appropriate safety precautions when exposed to asbestos particles. Asbestos can still be found in homes and buildings today, and everyone should limit their exposure to it, but the people who are at the greatest threat are those who work with asbestos and come in contact with asbestos particles on a regular basis.
Occupations that deal with construction and the installation of insulation are at the greatest risk. But other fields of labor involve contact with asbestos particles. People who work in mines, on the railroads, in the shipyards, and even those who make or wear gas masks can come into contact with carcinogenic asbestos particles. Safety precautions, such as the use of protective equipment and procedures, can and should be implemented to reduce the threat of asbestos inhalation. Other steps you can take to prevent mesothelioma include:
- Get informed – Conduct research on the Internet and elsewhere and learn as much as possible about mesothelioma, its causes, and the risk factors involved.
- Raise awareness in the workplace – If you work in an environment where asbestos is used in manufacturing or work in the asbestos removal industry, raise awareness about mesothelioma, its symptoms, and preventative measures that can be employed to protect workers’ lives and families.
- Bring a change of clothes and shower after each shift – Cases of mesothelioma have been documented where the spouses and families of people working with asbestos have developed this form of cancer from asbestos dust and fibers brought home on hair and work clothes.
- Schedule regular doctor appointments – Men are notoriously bad about regular medical checkups but if you work with asbestos in any way, it is imperative that you see a doctor at least once each year.
If you live in a home that has asbestos insulation and want it removed, seek out a professional contractor who is experienced in safely removing asbestos related materials. Do not attempt to remove the asbestos yourself. The risk of asbestos exposure is at its greatest when installing or removing the asbestos-containing materials.