A mesothelioma diagnosis often comes as a shock. This is especially true since mesothelioma is often diagnosed decades after exposure to asbestos.

Following a mesothelioma diagnosis, it is important to begin tracing where and when the asbestos exposure occurred in order to seek compensation.

What is risk factor? Risk factor is anything that increases an individual’s risk of developing a disease.

It is important to note that not all individuals with several risk factors develop cancer – and individuals with no known risk factors can develop cancer.

Assessing risk factor can be beneficial for individuals who are looking to make informed decisions about lifestyle and health care.

Who is most at risk for developing mesothelioma? Let’s take a look at some risk factors:

Individuals who have been exposed to asbestos

Exposure to asbestos causes mesothelioma.

Many people who are diagnosed with mesothelioma were exposed to asbestos at work. The exposure may have occurred decades ago in jobs such as:

• Shipbuilding
• Roofing
• Pipe fitting
• Electric utility
• Construction
• Insulation installation

Asbestos fibers can be transmitted on clothing or on personal items. Family members can be exposed when asbestos fibers come into the home.

Individuals who smoke

Smoking alone does not cause mesothelioma. However, smokers who have been exposed to asbestos have an increased risk of developing mesothelioma and other types of lung cancer.

Less common secondary risk factors

• Individuals who have been exposed to radiation
• Individuals who have been exposed to zeolite
• Individuals who are genetically predisposed to develop mesothelioma (this accounts for approximately 1 percent of mesothelioma cases)

When mesothelioma is caused by asbestos exposure in the workplace, victims may be eligible for significant compensation. It is advisable to speak to an attorney for help in determining the cause of the mesothelioma as well as determining the individual’s legal options.