Who are at Risk of Developing Mesothelioma?

The only major risk factor of development of Mesothelioma cancer is the exposure to asbestos, which may be chronic occupational exposure or accidental chronic exposure (e.g. living in houses made of asbestos roof shingles). Since 19^th century asbestos is mined and used commercially till date. The use of asbestos was greater during II World War. The use of asbestos was much more before discovery of asbestos as the only major cause of mesothelioma.

Some studies also indicate that there is some risk of development of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases among family members of a worker who works in asbestos factory or who is exposed to asbestos professionally. This risk may be due to exposure to asbestos dust brought home on the clothing and hair by the asbestos worker. To reduce the chance of exposing family members to asbestos fibers, asbestos workers are usually required to shower and change their clothing before leaving the workplace, under Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA guidelines.

Those at risk of developing Mesothelioma cancer:

There is increased risk of developing mesothelioma among shipyard workers, people who work in asbestos mines and asbestos factories, producers of asbestos products, workers in the heating and construction industries, and in many more industries. There is also report of increased risk of development of mesothelioma among the US veterans, who were exposed to asbestos in the warships during their service. This is also causing major concern.

Many countries including US (Occupational Safety and Health Administration or OSHA), has set limits for acceptable levels of asbestos exposure in the workplace. Under these limits workers who work with asbestos wear personal protective equipment so that there are lower risks associated with exposure to asbestos. The risk of mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis, increase with heavier exposure to asbestos and longer duration of exposure time. But there are some incidences of mesothelioma with only brief exposure to asbestos. Another fact about asbestos is, all those who are exposed to asbestos do not develop mesothelioma or other asbestos-related diseases like asbestosis.