Asbestos Exposure Linked To Doll Manufacturers
The first uses of asbestos date back thousands of years, but it wasn’t until the 20th century that its use became rampant not only because of its versatility, but also because of the mineral’s unique characteristics; it’s durable, heat resistant, and abundant. Occupational exposure to this carcinogen is one of the main contributing factors in those who are suffering from asbestos-related illnesses such as lung cancer, mesothelioma, and asbestosis. Steelworkers, chemical plant workers, tradesmen, and even those who worked in shipyards were most likely exposed to asbestos due to the nature of their work, but as time has gone on, asbestos-related illnesses have been found to have surfaced in unique occupations.
A recent study published in La Medicinia del lavoro noted evidence of possible asbestos exposure at two doll manufacturing companies after three women were diagnosed with pleural epithelial mesothelioma. These three women initially had their asbestos exposure classified as “unknown” because occupational exposure is unlikely; women are more likely to be exposed to asbestos through bystander exposure. However, an autopsy revealed that one of the women showed a concentration of amphibole fibers of 12,000,000 per gram of dry lung tissue and that the other two victims were assumed to have similar exposure. The exposure is now believed to have originated in the fabric that was used to make cloth dolls. Textile workers often experience high rates of asbestos exposure because fabric was often spun using raw asbestos fibers.
After this discovery, the woman’s mesothelioma was reclassified to “occupational certified.”
This isn’t the first unique profession that has found a link to asbestos exposure. Earlier this year, the American Journal of Medicine noted the number of dentists who have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, linking their exposure to a number of dental products, including dental tape. Many workers, like those in the doll factory and in the dental profession were unaware they were even handling asbestos products.
Even though asbestos is banned in most countries and heavily regulated in the United States, its negative health effects continue to plague society since there is a latency period of 10 to 40 years between asbestos exposure and illness. Past exposure, no matter how little, can put you at risk for developing mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis.
If you are suffering from lung cancer and you believe you could have been exposed to asbestos, contact the attorneys at Goldberg, Persky & White. For over 30 years, GPW has specialized in asbestos law and can help pinpoint exactly where your asbestos exposure occurred. Our extensive exposure evidence can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call today at 1-800-Complex or contact us via our web form below.
Source:
Barbieri, PG. et al., “Pleural Mesothelioma in Doll Manufacture: Possible Asbestos Exposure,” La Medicina del lavoro” (April 21, 2017) [Link]
