While Hawaiʻi residents are increasingly aware of the serious health risks associated with occupational exposure to asbestos in the workplace and from military service, many don’t realize how frequently they may come in contact with the material.
Used for insulation, as a fire retardant and many other applications, asbestos can be found in homes and in military housing throughout Hawaiʻi. In addition, generations have been exposed to asbestos in the workplace and in military service.
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In the United States, the use of asbestos peaked in the early 1970s. Its ubiquity in construction materials and in the workplace means the exposure risk continues. Asbestos fibers are often released during demolition work, home maintenance and remodeling. The fibers break down into tiny particles, which can be inhaled and settle in the lungs. These particles are known to cause scarring and inflammation that can lead to mesothelioma and other forms of cancer.
Three Dangers of Asbestos
Asbestos exposure has been linked to the following health issues:
Asbestosis
Caused by inhaling asbestos fibers over an extended period, asbestosis is an inflammatory condition that affects lung tissue and can cause permanent lung damage. In addition, asbestosis causes decreased lung elasticity, resulting in difficulty breathing.
Symptoms of asbestosis include persistent dry cough, shortness of breath, and a cracking sound during inhalation. Asbestosis may not show up for a long time – as long as 40 years or more after the time of exposure.
Mesothelioma and Lung Cancer
Mesothelioma is a deadly form of cancer of the lining of the lungs and other internal organs. Symptoms can include:
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- Chest pain
- Persistent cough
- Lethargy
- Weight Loss
- Fatigue
- Shortness of breath
Asbestos exposure is also linked to an increased risk of other types of cancers, such as cancers of the stomach, ovaries and colorectum.
Pleura Disease
Pleura refers to the tissue that covers the lungs and lines the interior wall of the chest cavity. It protects and cushions the lungs and secretes fluids that act as a lubricant. This allows the lungs to move smoothly in the chest cavity while breathing.
Exposure to asbestos affects the pleura in various ways, leading to a condition called pleura disease. This presents in several ways – the most common is an overproduction of fluid known as pleural effusion.
Symptoms of pleura disease include:
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- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pains
- Shortness of breath
How to Ensure Your Home is Safe
Although the use of asbestos in building materials has significantly declined thanks to government regulations, older homes may contain materials laced with the material. Up until the 1970s and even later, many types of building products and insulation materials used in homes contained asbestos. In Hawaiʻi, many residential buildings contain some asbestos products.
If you suspect asbestos may be present in your home, here are some tips to keep your home – and your loved ones – safe.
- Leave it alone: Often, the best approach is to leave asbestos material undisturbed. Generally, material that’s in good condition will not release asbestos fibers. Keep in mind that asbestos only becomes dangerous once the fibers are released into the air and inhaled.
- Perform regular checks: If you suspect certain materials in your home may contain asbestos, have a professional check them regularly for signs of wear and tear, such as abrasions or water damage. Damaged material may release asbestos fibers.
- Repair or remove materials: Fixing damaged asbestos-containing material helps seal the asbestos, binding the fibers and reducing their release into the environment. For example, exposed pipes may need a protective covering. If you plan on making changes to your home, consider removing asbestos-containing materials. The removal or repair of materials should be handled by a professional.
How We Help Victims of Asbestos Exposure in Hawaiʻi
Seek justice with the help of our experienced Hawaiʻi asbestos attorneys. Our mesothelioma law firm has represented Hawaiʻi residents like you affected by asbestos exposure for over 40 years, aggressively fighting the corporate giants responsible for their dangerous products. If you or a loved one were exposed to asbestos or suffered from a disease caused by asbestos, like mesothelioma, we can help.
