It was in the 1960s that the connection between mesothelioma and asbestos was established. Asbestos is a naturally occurring product that has been put to use widely in ship building industries and cement manufacturing units. Millions of people all over the world are involved in its extraction, processing and industrial activities. Though its use increased steadily in the 1940s, no one suspected any side effects and no precautions were taken to protect the employees from inhaling or ingesting the fibers floating in the air.

The health of the workers was in peril since they were inhaling asbestos particles. Not only that the family members were also infected through the dangerous particles carried home through their dress or hair. This happened since the workers went back home without a shower or changing of cloths. As soon as the connection between mesothelioma and asbestos was established, restrictions were put forth by the governments regarding the use of asbestos. Some countries even banned the use of the product. But it was too late since many were already infected as there exited no precautionary measures earlier.

Once we inhale asbestos particles through the air, they get accumulated in the protective lining of the lungs and other vital organs. This triggers chemical reactions which result in abnormal and uncontrolled division of mesothelium cells. This continues for a number of years with the result that the infection spreads and cancer symptoms appear.

Mesothelioma is the deadliest of all diseases like lung cancer caused by asbestos. Various precautionary measures are taken these days like wearing protective masks, bathing and changing cloths at work place etc. In spite of this mesothelioma cases are still reported, though rarely. About 3000 people are diagnosed of carrying this disease every year in United States alone. The number would be much more around the world. The sorry state of affairs is that in spite of the link between mesothelioma and cancer many countries have not made asbestos laws and unscrupulous employers still exploit workers to satisfy their greed.

Since there is an umbilical relation between mesothelioma and asbestos, workers are entitled to monetary compensation. The amount, which may run to millions, can help to cover treatment expenses and loss of income.