For many years, mesothelioma and other asbestos-related diseases were primarily associated with industrial workers, mainly men employed in shipyards, mines, construction sites, and factories during the height of asbestos use. However, as time progresses, new research is uncovering a more complex reality. The individuals impacted by asbestos-related diseases now come from a wider spectrum than previously recognized, and traditional occupational exposure cases appear to be declining.
“The landscape of asbestos exposure is changing, and the cases we’re seeing are more varied. But at our firm, we’ve been dealing with the broader impact of asbestos for years. That’s why we’re committed to getting justice for those affected and raising awareness.”
— Case A. Dam, Senior Attorney, Asbestos Litigation
From the Factory Floor to the Home
A meta‑analysis of epidemiologic studies in the medical literature found increased rates of mesothelioma among individuals exposed domestically through family contact with asbestos workers.
Public health sources and long‑term case reports now estimate that up to about 30% of mesothelioma cases in the U.S. may be linked to secondary exposure, particularly among women and younger adults who never worked in traditionally dangerous jobs themselves.
“Families can and are indeed exposed through secondary exposure, but my team has also seen cases where people were exposed to asbestos-containing products directly in their homes. Items like old insulation, flooring, or appliances, products many people never knew contained asbestos, can release dangerous fibers into the air, putting entire families at risk. These products were sold and used in homes for years, unknowingly exposing those who never worked in hazardous jobs to the same dangers.”
— Benjamin Pyle, Senior Attorney, Asbestos Litigation
The Importance of Expanding Our Understanding of Exposure Risks Beyond Traditional Workers
Raising awareness about this shift in “who is at risk” is key to ensuring that anyone who is diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness knows their rights and can find the support they need, both legal and medical.
“At our firm’s nationwide practice, we’ve clearly seen how asbestos exposure affects people far beyond traditional industrial settings. Yes, we still handle cases involving workplace exposure, but more often we’re representing family members exposed secondarily or from talc-containing cosmetic and personal hygiene products. That broader view gives us a unique insight into how widespread these risks really are, and it’s important that those impacted understand exposure isn’t limited to what they may have once assumed.”
— Darron E. Berquist, Managing Attorney, Asbestos Litigation
About The Lanier Law Firm
The Lanier Law Firm is an award-winning national trial firm specializing in a variety of practice areas, including asbestos exposure, pharmaceutical liability, business litigation, and product liability. As one of the most experienced asbestos litigation law firms in the world, the Lanier Law Firm provides mesothelioma legal services in all 50 states. With talented attorneys in Houston, New York and Los Angeles, the firm has won more than $20 billion for clients since its founding in 1990.
If you have been diagnosed with an asbestos-related illness, contact our firm today. We will provide a free case evaluation, help you identify sources of asbestos exposure, build a strong case, and recover the compensation you deserve.