Sheet Metal Workers Face Danger of Mesothelioma

August 18, 2009

According to a study, which was completed by researchers at Duke University and the Center for Construction Research and Training in Maryland, those workers who use sheet metal are at an extremely high risk for contracting mesothelioma. The study looked at the mortality patterns of 17,345 workers with 20 years or more in the sheet metal trade.

The results showed that workers who fabricate and install heating and air conditioning ductwork, produce appliances such as refrigerators and air conditioners and work in shipyards and the railroad industry are often exposed to asbestos.

Mesothelioma is a deadly form of respiratory cancer that is caused when asbestos fibers are ingested or inhaled. They settle in the lungs and slowly cut at them and cause them to become enflamed.

Though the study subjects had a relatively high life expectancy- suggesting that they are generally healthy, hearty individuals- their chance of contracting mesothelioma is disproportionately large.