Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive cancer primarily caused by exposure to asbestos. This disease affects the thin lining of various internal organs, most commonly the lungs, but also the abdomen and heart. Historically, steel mills were environments where asbestos was extensively used, creating significant exposure risks for workers. The long latency period of mesothelioma means symptoms often appear decades after initial exposure.
The Link Between Steel Mills and Asbestos
Steel mills posed a high risk for asbestos exposure due to widespread use of asbestos-containing materials throughout their operations. Asbestos was valued for its exceptional heat resistance and insulating properties, making it suitable for the extreme temperatures found in steel production. Furnaces and ovens, such as blast furnaces, coke ovens, and annealing furnaces, commonly incorporated asbestos in their linings and insulation to manage intense heat.
Beyond the primary heat-generating areas, asbestos also served as insulation for steam pipes, hot water lines, and boilers distributed across the mill. Workers frequently wore protective gear, including gloves and aprons, which were woven with asbestos fibers to shield them from burns and heat. The presence of asbestos extended to machinery components like brakes and gaskets in heavy machinery, cranes, and other vehicles used for transporting materials within the mill.
Asbestos was also incorporated into structural building materials within the steel mill facilities, including roofing, flooring tiles, and wall insulation. Exposure primarily occurred when these materials were installed, maintained, repaired, or demolished, releasing microscopic asbestos fibers into the air. This pervasive use led to workers routinely inhaling hazardous fibers.
How Asbestos Exposure Causes Mesothelioma
Mesothelioma develops when microscopic asbestos fibers become airborne and are inhaled into the lungs, or less commonly, ingested. Once inside the body, these durable and sharp fibers are difficult for the body’s natural defenses to remove. The trapped fibers then irritate and damage the mesothelial cells, which form the protective lining around organs like the lungs (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum), and heart (pericardium).
This chronic irritation and inflammation, occurring over many years, can lead to cellular damage and genetic mutations within the mesothelial cells. Over time, these mutated cells may begin to grow uncontrollably, leading to the formation of tumors characteristic of mesothelioma.
Recognizing Symptoms and Seeking Diagnosis
Recognizing the symptoms of mesothelioma can be challenging because they often resemble those of less serious conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis. For pleural mesothelioma, which affects the lung lining, common indicators include a persistent cough, chest pain, and shortness of breath. Individuals may also experience fatigue and unexplained weight loss.
Peritoneal mesothelioma, affecting the abdominal lining, can manifest with symptoms such as abdominal pain, swelling, nausea, and weight loss. Given the non-specific nature of these symptoms, a thorough medical history, particularly regarding any occupational asbestos exposure, is an important diagnostic step. Imaging tests like X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs are often used to identify abnormalities.
A definitive diagnosis of mesothelioma requires a biopsy, where a tissue sample is taken and examined under a microscope. Individuals with a history of asbestos exposure, especially those who worked in environments like steel mills, should seek medical evaluation from a doctor experienced in asbestos-related diseases if they experience any concerning symptoms. Prompt medical attention is important for managing the disease.
Legal Avenues for Victims
Victims of mesothelioma and their families have a legal right to seek compensation for damages resulting from corporate negligence related to asbestos exposure. This compensation can cover medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Many companies responsible for manufacturing or supplying asbestos-containing products, including those used in steel mills, faced bankruptcy due to asbestos liabilities.
These bankrupt companies often established asbestos trust funds to compensate victims without requiring traditional litigation. These funds operate by setting aside money for future claims, providing financial recourse for victims. For companies that remain financially viable and were responsible for asbestos exposure, victims may pursue lawsuits to recover damages.
Veterans diagnosed with mesothelioma due to asbestos exposure during their service may also be eligible for specific Veterans Affairs (VA) benefits. Individuals must be aware of state-specific statutes of limitations, which are strict deadlines for filing claims. Seeking timely legal action is therefore important to preserve the right to compensation.
Consulting with a specialized mesothelioma law firm is recommended for victims. These firms possess expertise and resources to navigate the complexities of asbestos litigation, often working on a contingency fee basis where they only get paid if the client wins. They understand historical occupational exposure contexts, like those in steel mills, and can assist victims in pursuing claims.