Asbestos has not disappeared from South Carolina. Whether from old buildings and products or in new uses, asbestos can still be found in many — all over and even in the workplace. Almost anyone could be at risk for exposure, but there are some who face an even greater risk than others. Here are some of the industries in which workers are most likely to develop mesothelioma.

Chrysotile asbestos has not been mined in the United States since 2002. However, many of these mines remained open for many years, with the last one not closing until 2019. Miners who worked in these environments were routinely exposed to small particles of asbestos. This might be at least part of the reason why miners are some of the workers most likely to develop mesothelioma.

South Carolina construction workers are another at-risk population. Asbestos was once a staple in drywall, spackling, shingles, tiles and much more. People who worked with these in the past were exposed during installation, while current workers are most at risk when renovating or demolishing older buildings. Both of these groups can easily develop mesothelioma related to exposure.

Mesothelioma is a devastating, fatal cancer. Treatments may briefly extend patients’ lives, but there is currently no cure. This means that asbestos exposure victims have to make the difficult decision between taking on medical debt to have a little more time with their loved ones, or succumbing to their illness much sooner. Whether exposed at work, home or somewhere else, these victims may want to consider how getting compensation and holding responsible parties accountable for their actions can help.