Women's Health Week: Mesothelioma Caused by Exposure to Asbestos

National Women's Health Week wrapped up a couple of days ago, but there are ongoing issues that not just women need to be aware of, one of which is Mesothelioma. This rare cancer is caused by exposure to asbestos, and since
this is found naturally in South Lake Tahoe and El Doraado County, as well as in 43 other counties in California, I thought I'd share this information

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is the name for a group of naturally-occurring silicate minerals. Naturally-occurring asbestos, often found in serpentine rock formations, is present in several foothill areas of Placer County. When naturally-occurring asbestos-containing material is disturbed asbestos fibers may be released and become airborne, thereby creating a potential health hazard.

You can be exposed to natural asbestos by dust from unpaved roads or driveways that are surfaced with ultramafic or serpentine rock. The California EPA has a lot of helpful information on their website.

Besides naturally occurring asbestos it can also be found in many old building products. Since it was such a popular material at one time, the Environmental Protection Agency has rules in place for its removal. Two South Lake Tahoe businesses were fined $50,000 in 2004 for illegally disposing of asbestos from their businesses: Super 8 Motel and Mulligan's Irish Pub.

Mesothelioma

This disease is the direct result of being in contact with asbestos,both in the workplace and at home.

Here is an article submitted to South Tahoe Now by Heather Von St. James, an American cancer survivor who had malignant mesothelioma and is a cancer research advocate:

My name is Heather Von St. James and I’m reaching out to you today in hopes that you will help me with a cause that is very near and dear to my heart.

Eight years ago, I was diagnosed with mesothelioma; a rare and deadly cancer caused only by exposure to asbestos. I had just given birth to our daughter Lily, and was only given 15 months to live. After a life saving surgery that included the removal of my left lung, I’ve made it my life’s mission to spread awareness about mesothelioma and the dangers of asbestos.
My father had worked in construction and would come home with dust all over him. As a child I would wear his work coat, unknowingly exposing myself to the asbestos he worked with daily. Mesothelioma was once considered a ‘man’s disease’, but women have swiftly become the new patient profile due to second-hand exposure.

In honor of National Women’s Health Week, I am reaching out to ask for help in spreading the word about mesothelioma and it’s causes. During this week, individuals, families, and communities work to help women learn how to achieve longer, healthier, and safer lives!

The site I blog for, the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, has a great deal of information on mesothelioma and asbestos exposure. It would mean the world to me if you could help me with my mission by spreading awareness to help educate and inform people about this preventable disease!