While employers have a duty to ensure that their employees’ workplaces are free from hazards that can potentially cause injury or illness, unfortunately, it is not uncommon for them to fail to implement adequate safety and protection measures to keep their workers safe. As a result, workers in some fields may be exposed to carcinogenic chemicals, which can be very harmful to a person’s health and could even end up afflicting them for life.
Cancer is a group of different diseases that share the same characteristic: uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. Each type of cancer has its causes and different factors can contribute to its development. To this day, this group of diseases remains one of the leading causes of death in the developed world.
The CDC estimates that between 4-10% of cancer cases diagnosed in the United States each year are due to occupational causes, this equates to about 46,000 to 95,000 cases annually. In light of this alarming reality, American workers must be aware of the presence of cancer-causing chemicals in their workplace and must be prepared to act if they develop this type of disease.
If you are diagnosed with cancer and suspect that the disease is due to occupational causes, then there is something you should know: You can get compensation to deal with your medical bills and cover your lost wages. However, obtaining these benefits can be an uphill battle. That’s why you should consider working with a Los Angeles workers’ compensation law firm to increase your chances of success, and C&B Law Group may be a very good option.
C&B Law Group is a California workers’ compensation law firm that has helped hundreds of workers get the money they need to deal with their workplace injuries or illnesses. If you want to know how they can help you, contact them now for a free consultation.
Carcinogens found in the workplace
Organizations like the National Toxicology Program (NTP) and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) have conducted studies on the major carcinogenic chemicals that can be found in workplaces. According to their findings, these are the most common and need a self contained breathing apparatus and working around them:
- Asbestos: Asbestos fibers are used to reinforce things like roof shingles, ceiling tiles, and car parts. However, you are at risk of breathing them in and they could get lodged in your lungs.
- Wood dust: Similar to asbestos, workers are at risk of breathing in wood dust particles and these can accumulate in the lungs.
- Benzene: This chemical is used to manufacture products such as lubricants, detergents, rubbers, drugs, etc. Benzene is a natural part of crude oil, gasoline, cigarette smoke and can be found in pesticides.
- Formaldehyde: This is a colorless gas with a very strong odor, which is used for the manufacture of wood products, plastic, and resins. Besides, it is used to embalm bodies in the funeral industry.
- Radiation: Radioactive elements and ionizing radiation are emitted by X-rays and various sources of nuclear power.
The cancers they can cause
Long-term exposure to any of the above chemicals can lead to the development of different types of cancer. Among the most common types of cancer are the following:
- Lung Cancer
- Bladder Cancer
- Nasal Cancer
- Larynx/Pharynx Cancer
- Mesothelioma
- Lymphatic and Blood Cancers
- Skin Cancer
- Liver Cancer
You’re not alone, talk to an attorney
To get workers’ compensation benefits for your work-related cancer, you must be able to demonstrate that your illness is directly related to your job. However, this can be much more complicated than it seems, especially when cancer has developed over a long period of time.
During this difficult time, be aware that you don’t have to deal with this on your own. Working with a Los Angeles workers’ compensation attorney will make the process easier and increase your chances of success.
C&B Law Group is a workers’ compensation law firm with a remarkable track record of success. During the last year, they recovered over $7 million for their hundreds of satisfied clients. This law firm works 24/7, so you can contact them anytime for a completely free consultation.
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