If you are exposed to asbestos at elevated levels, your risks of mesothelioma increase. It is worth noting that everyone is exposed to asbestos to some degree. It is a natural substance. But that level of exposure is usually not problematic. The issue is when it is from man-made materials, like insulation or tile. This is why asbestos has been banned as a building material in most cases, even though it is a naturally occurring material.
What people sometimes wonder is if they can reduce their mesothelioma risk again by avoiding asbestos in the future. But the truth is that your risk level for developing mesothelioma is permanently altered by that exposure.
This doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t avoid asbestos in the future. It is certainly best to avoid all levels of exposure that you can. But this simply keeps you from pushing the odds that you will develop mesothelioma even higher, and it does not reduce those odds if you’ve already been exposed.
So, what can you do?
The biggest thing to remember is that there is a long latency period between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. This can last for decades. So, while you cannot reduce your risk level, you can keep an eye out for common signs and symptoms. Early detection of aggressive cancer like this is the key to getting proper treatment.
If you do develop mesothelioma, then it’s important that you take the time to look into all of your legal options. For example, there are asbestos trust funds that can help provide financial benefits to those who deserve them.
