Thursday, September 26, 2013

Mesothelioma Cancer Awareness Day

Hello loved ones,
I have been contacted by Emily Walsh, the Community Outreach Director for a cancer organization known as the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance.  Today is Mesothelioma Cancer Awareness Day and sadly, I was unaware of this type of cancer before being contacted by Emily.  With families each day learning heart wrenching news that cancer has entered their lives in one way or another or are celebrating the defeat of the horrible disease, I felt this blog was a great way to raise awareness to a type of cancer that is all around us but little known.  If you could take a minute to read the attached blog to educate yourself and your loved ones about the 8 things you should know about Mesothelioma and spread the word, it would be a wonderful gesture and push to help those who are in need.

As always....
Peace & Love,
Misty

http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/emily/8-things-you-should-know-about-mesothelioma.htm


Sep09

8 Things You Should Know About Mesothelioma

8 Facts About MesotheliomaMesothelioma -- a long word you may have heard on a commercial or two, but do you know what it means? This rare and deadly cancer is sadly lacking awareness. In honor of Mesothelioma Awareness Day this September 26, read on for the top 8 things you don’t know about this cancer, but should. Then share them. The key to saving lives starts with education.


1. Mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure. Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that is invisible to the naked eye. Once inhaled, these fibers may infect the protective lining of the lungs, abdominal cavity, or cardiac cavity.
2. No amount of exposure is safe. Just exposing yourself once could put you at risk for developing the disease later on in life. If you were exposed today, you may not be aware until 2043, as the average latency period is about 30 – 40 years.
3. Asbestos was once used in more than 3,000 consumer products. These include household items, some of which may still be in use. Some of these even include hair dryers, crock pots, and cigarette filters.
4. It can be found in many older homes, schools, factories, and commercial buildings. Homes built prior to the 1970’s, along with a myriad of public buildings still could potentially contain asbestos because of the materials used in the original construction.
5. Asbestos exposure is still the LEADING CAUSE of occupational cancer in the US. Even after 30 years since the United States government issued stern warnings about the continued use of asbestos, many workers who were once exposed are now at risk of developing the disease.
6. United States Veterans are at the greatest risk. For many years, asbestos was used across all branches of the military. Many veterans and shipyard workers were exposed to high levels of asbestos from several different applications. US Navy veterans who served during World War II and the Korean Conflict unfortunately have the highest incidences of asbestos related disease, including mesothelioma.
7. Asbestos is still not banned in the US. Federal law requires the newly manufactured products contain no more than 1% asbestos. Although its use is regulated, roughly 30 million pounds are still being used each year.
8. Mesothelioma can be caused by secondary exposure. Family members of those who were directly affected by on-the-job asbestos exposure may also at risk of developing mesothelioma.
Want to do something to help this Mesothelioma Awareness Day? Our friend and 7 year survivor, Heather Von St. James, needs your help. Check out her campaign and share her message to help educate and save lives. Be a voice for the victims.


Read more: http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/emily/8-things-you-should-know-about-mesothelioma.htm#ixzz2g0ydDawe