Asbestos &amp; Mesothelioma News

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The use of asbestos to create picture perfect snow

In 2015, we’re well aware of the dangers associated with asbestos, a naturally occurring fibrous mineral. Decades ago, the mineral was used in cigarettes, insulation and roofing due to its flame-resistant capabilities, but it also had more commercial uses.The light, white and fluffy nature of the fibers made it perfect for creating artificial snow. Prior to the banned uses, asbestos snow could be purchased by the box to sprinkle around the house during the Christmas season. Other decorations, like wreaths and trees, were covered in this dangerous snow to create the appearance of a light dusting.Its use as snow spread...

29 May

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Be a quitter this November

Every year, the third Thursday of November is designated by the American Cancer Society as ‘The Great American Smokeout.’ The day is used to encourage smokers to quit, even for a day, and embrace a healthier life for themselves and those around them.Beginning in 1977, the Great American Smokeout became an official event after several years of smaller initiatives around the United States. In 1970, it was as simple as not smoking cigarettes for one day and donating the money to a local high school in Massachusetts. By 1976, the American Cancer Society in California held an event where almost...

29 May

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Secondhand asbestos exposure poses threat to workers’ families

In the early 1970s, a series of lawsuits forced companies to admit responsibility for exposing workers to the carcinogen known as asbestos. Used as insulation, tiling, roofing and more, this fiber was found all around steel mills, chemical and power plants, putting hundreds of thousands of workers at risk for asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma and lung cancer.While much of the focus falls on those with occupational asbestos exposure, the families of the workers are at risk for developing illnesses through exposure at home.There is no safe level of asbestos exposure and theories suggest any amount of the fiber can cause...

29 May

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Asbestos-related lung cancer aids in killing 15,000 Americans each year

As the number two cause of death for adults in the United States, cancer remains a very real threat for many. An average 1,600 Americans die each day from cancer with almost two million new cases diagnosed each year. Statistics show one in two men and one in three females will develop cancer during their lifetime.The science of determining why someone gets cancer and another does not is incomplete. Genetic defects play a minor role, causing between five and 10 percent of all cancers. The other 90 to 95 percent are caused by genetic changes, environmental exposure and lifestyle. Certain...

29 May

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GPW to relocate after nearly three decades on Fifth Avenue

FOR RELEASE September 29, 2015Pittsburgh, PA – After almost three decades, the principle office of Goldberg, Persky & White, P.C. is relocating. Effective Friday, Oct. 2, the firm will move from its 1030 Fifth Avenue location across from Consol Energy Center to 11 Stanwix Street in the First Niagara Building.“After looking at many properties in Pittsburgh and trying to stay in Uptown, we toured the 11 Stanwix space and it felt like the right fit,” said Managing Shareholder Dave Chervenick. “Leaving our location at 1030 Fifth Avenue is sad because of all the time spent here, dating back to when...

29 May

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Lack of asbestos permits puts Pittsburgh community at risk for exposure

Prior to regulations established in the 1970s and 1980s, asbestos was commonly used in building materials such as roofing, tiles, insulation and more. Because of this, many homes built before the new laws contain the deadly fiber, undisturbed above their heads and below their feet.When demolition of a property is commissioned, a major concern is securing the proper permits and safety for all those near the site. In some cases, contractors may forget or move forward without asbestos clearances, possibly releasing the fibers into the air. Asbestos removal is time consuming and expensive, causing companies to try to complete the project...

29 May

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Workers still exposed to asbestos at high levels

Many years have passed since asbestos use became limited in the United States, yet the effects are still felt by workers and families alike. Those employed by steel mills, paper mills, shipyards and more put their lives in danger every day simply by going to work. Unlike other substances, overall evidence suggests there isn’t a safe level of asbestos exposure and any amount can lead to health problems.Numerous countries around the world have enforced an asbestos ban, but others continue using the dangerous fibers at different levels. During the peak year of 1980, asbestos use hit 4.7 trillion metric tons....

29 May

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Asbestos-related deaths in Allegheny County surpass national average

Recent media coverage of the Environmental Working Group Action Fund’s interactive map highlighting the number of asbestos deaths in the United States brings to light many issues we’re reminded of every day. As asbestos attorneys, we see just how devastating the effects can be through our clients and their families.This reality hits home in Allegheny County. In Monday’s Post-Gazette, Don Hopey wrote about the findings in an article titled “Study: Asbestos deaths in Allegheny County, Pa. much higher than national average.” Because of the area’s history in industry, especially with steel mills, the residents have higher than the national...

29 May

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May Day marks bloody history for workers rights in United States