Workplace Cancer Origins: Is Your Job Giving You Cancer?
Although smoking remains the primary cause, many people still develop lung cancer without ever smoking a single cigarette in their entire lives. Similarly, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), national rates of colorectal and intestinal, prostate, and breast cancers seem to be increasing without a clear explanation.
So, the question is, what’s causing these health abnormalities? The surprising answer may be found at your workplace.
Carcinogenic (Cancer-Causing) Substances in the Workplace
If you have been exposed to certain substances at work, especially over the course of many years, your risk of getting cancer may have increased without your even realizing it.
The National Cancer Institute notes that certain chemical exposures can aid in the development of tumors, and ultimately cancer. Some substances found in certain work environments have actually been known to cause cancer. These carcinogenic substances include asbestos, arsenic, chromium, nickel, beryllium, cadmium, and silica (found in concrete and glass dust). All of these substances can enter the bloodstream through inhalation or skin absorption. Once inside the body, they can attack and damage cells, promote swelling and tissue calcification, as well as create tumors.
The most susceptible industries for carcinogenic chemical exposure include chemical manufacturing, construction, coal production, and iron and steel production.
Workplace Safety Rights
If you have a job that may expose you to cancer-causing substances, you have rights as an employee. Your employer should have made any exposure risks clear to you from the beginning. He also should have provided proper safety equipment and gear to prevent or limit exposure.
Your employer has an obligation to make your work environment as safe as possible. When he fails to keep you safe, he becomes liable for any and all injuries you may sustain—including long-term effects of chemical exposures. If you think more could have been done by your employer to prevent your cancer, consider contacting Attorney Steve Lee for a FREE, professional evaluation of your case.
Do you know someone with cancer and think that his occupation may be to blame? Share this blog with him, so he can begin to understand what may have happened. Did you find value in the information provided? If so, please let us know in the comment section provided on this page, or by liking and following us on Facebook.