Asbestos VictimAn asbestos victim is someone that has had either direct or indirect exposure to asbestos and has developed health complications related to that exposure. Because asbestos was used in such a widespread manner starting in the late 1800's through the 1970's, many people were unwittingly exposed to the dangers and the subsequent health related issues that can sometimes occur. Asbestos Related Health Issues Asbestos is a fibrous material that is considered to be a carcinogen, which means that it is a known cancer causing agent. Lung cancer and mesothelioma are just two of the illness that can occur from asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is cancer of the lining that surrounds a person's organs. The lining of the heart, lungs and the organs of the abdominal cavity can be affected. An asbestos victim may not even develop many of the conditions that are associated with exposure for many years.Other health issues can also occur. Asbestosis is a condition that affects the lungs. It causes lung damage, coughing and shortness of breath. It can also cause fluid build up of the tissue between the chest cavity wall and the lungs, a condition that can be painful and cause breathing difficulties. Lung disorders are common themes that are seen in many people that have prolonged exposure to asbestos. In order for someone to be considered an asbestos victim, a detailed personal and medical history must be recorded. Click here to learn about Asbestos attorneys. People that are at risk for asbestos related health issues can include people that worked in the shipbuilding industry, especially during World War II. People that perform asbestos mining and work in the construction trade can also be at risk. Another more recent set of people have been exposed to asbestos. This includes people that were integral to the rescue and clean up of the World Trade Center in 2001. Much of the North Tower was constructed of products that were made from asbestos. Many of them have reported health issues that may very well be related to asbestos. Risk Factors Of course, not everyone that is exposed to asbestos will develop health problems. People that already have decreased lung function tend to be more susceptible than people who are otherwise healthy. Smokers seem to be more at risk than non smokers for developing asbestos related conditions. There are risk factors that are generally followed for labeling someone as an asbestos victim. It depends on how much asbestos a person was in contact with or exposed and how long the exposure was for. There are a few different types of asbestos and some of them are more dangerous than others, so the type is important as well. How the victim was exposed is a key factor, too. Was it at work? Or was it within the community or at home?
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Asbestos was often used in drywall, electrical wiring and even in brakes. It is a fire retardant and heat resistant material that has many uses. It is very flexible yet strong so using it in insulation, drywall and even fire retardant clothing used to be considered the norm. 