The Environmental Protection Agency has found that asbestos exposure poses an unreasonable risk of cancer to both workers and consumers who inhale it
As we reported in our blog last year, the EPA had been in the process of finalizing a rule that would have allowed for the limited use of asbestos in certain forms of manufacturing and business.
According to TheHill.com, in a draft review filed at the end of March, it appears the agency is beginning to take asbestos exposure and cancer links more seriously.
The EPA said, “workers who inhale asbestos from certain uses of the substance in the Chlor-alkali industry, chemical production industry, oil industry and automotive industry had risks of lung cancer and mesothelioma.”
If you follow our blog, you are aware that asbestos exposure is directly linked to mesothelioma, as well as colon cancer, stomach cancer, throat cancer and kidney cancer.
Some politicians and consumer advocates have said that they hope the news of the draft review indicates that the EPA will address asbestos exposure concerns, with some arguing for legislation that would effectively ban the substance.
“That EPA found this level of risk, despite the severe limitations and deficiencies of their evaluation speaks volumes,” Linda Reinstein, president and co-founder of the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization said, according to TheHill.com. “We have repeatedly noted their flawed approach fails to fully recognize and evaluate the public health threat of asbestos which is why Americans can’t wait for the EPA to get it right.”
We will continue to monitor this story, so visit our blog.
Have You Been Exposed to Asbestos?
It is estimated that asbestos exposure has contributed to 12,000 to 15,000 deaths each year in the U.S.
If you become sick because you are exposed to asbestos, our mesothelioma attorneys can help you fight back. We can investigate your claim and possibly obtain compensation for you that can help pay for healthcare treatment.
If you have been diagnosed with cancer and you believe it was the result of asbestos exposure, contact our mesothelioma attorneys. Call (800) 637-6347 today or fill out our online case review form.
