It is quite relieving to know that the death rate in Idaho caused by Mesothelioma is low. However, this does not absolve the people living here from all caution and preventive measures. In a research conducted by the Environmental Working Group (EWG), at least 179 cases of deaths caused by Mesothelioma have been reported in the state up till now since 1979.
Mesothelioma is an entirely preventable form of cancer. People working in asbestos related industries such as shipyards, asbestos mines and mills, asbestos factories and heating and construction industries can prevent this disease if they wear protective gear and masks when handling this deadly material. Being commercially mined and used since 1980’s in the state especially during World War II, large number of people living in Idaho inhaled asbestos dust, and suffer from Mesothelioma as a result. It was also due to negligence of asbestos handling companies which knew about its consequence but still persisted in its use.
As a result of the havoc created by Mesothelioma, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration implemented rules and regulations according to which asbestos can be safely handled in the industries.
There are two vulnerable areas in the body which are worst affected by Mesothelioma, the pleura or the lining of the lungs or the peritoneum, the lining of the stomach. However, it may take up more than 20-30 years for the symptoms to appear. By this time it may become too late and the patient may die within 16-18 months after diagnosis.
The worst thing about Mesothelioma is that it can harm you even after indirect exposure. If any one in your family has Mesothelioma you can also get it if you inhale asbestos particles and dust from their clothes, shoes and hair. Even you work or love near a place where asbestos is handled, you can get this disease.
Mesothelioma in Idaho
Below are the figures for the number of deaths, mortality rates (per million population), and years of potential life lost (YPLL) in Idaho State in the year 1999, among residents age 15 and over.
State |
|
Crude Mortality |
Rate |
Rank |
|
Age-Adjusted Mortality |
Rate |
Rank |
|
VYLL to life Expectancy |
Total |
Rank |
VYLL/death |
Rank |
|
Idaho |
14 |
39 |
14.48 |
14 |
15.33 |
12 |
192 |
39 |
13.7 |
25 |
According to CDC statistics results in 1999, Idaho ranks as the 39 th state for Mesothelioma incidents. However, this figure may go up with more people getting afflicted with Mesothelioma as its symptoms take a long period of 20-50 years to appear. Thus, a large number of people might be suffering from Mesothelioma and not know it. Most of the symptoms appear when this cancer is in its last stage.
Thus, you must be aware of that if you or your loved one have worked in an asbestos exposed environment, it is important to let your doctor know so that you can be checked out for Mesothelioma.
Contact a Mesothelioma attorney if you are suffering from this deadly disease and you caught it because of unsafe working environment. We have listed Mesothelioma attorney in each state on this site to help you with finding suitable legal help.
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