It has long been known that exposure to asbestos significantly increases the risk of developing diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. Now, a new study has reportedly found that people who are exposed to asbestos fibers for an extended period of time may also be at an increased risk for diseases such as heart disease and stroke.
Asbestos concerns prompt closure of St. Louis streets
A St. Louis intersection recently reopened after being closed for several days due to the likely risk of asbestos exposure in the area. City officials say that risk is now eliminated, but that assurance will likely fail to restore confidence to St. Louis residents who live or work near the intersection, and who fear that the potential asbestos fibers in the area could cause harm to their health.
Illinois town sues over benzene exposure
An Illinois town has filed a lawsuit against Shell Oil and several other defendants, alleging that the companies are responsible for the benzene exposure that has contaminated the town's groundwater and endangered the health and safety of its residents.
Asbestos risk may force hockey team to find new home
Last month, we wrote about the investigation into a potentially major risk of asbestos exposure at the historic Nassau Coliseum in Long Island, New York. At the time of that asbestos blog post, county officials planned to keep the arena open for hockey games and other events, potentially putting thousands of employees and guests at risk of asbestos exposure and the often-deadly consequences of such exposure.
WTC insurer says it has exceeded limit on asbestos claims
The insurance company that covered the initial construction of the World Trade Center has filed a claim in New York County Court, stating that it has already exceeded the policy's limit of $10 million for asbestos claims and asking the court to relieve it of any future liability on such claims. The company has also asked the court to recoup previously made asbestos claim payments that exceeded that limit.
National Asbestos Awareness Week concludes
Tomorrow, the eighth annual National Asbestos Awareness Week will come to an end, marking the conclusion of a poignant and hopeful week for residents of Libby, Montana, and people who suffer from the effects of asbestos exposure throughout the country.
Illinois court remands secondhand asbestos suit to Madison County
Last month, the Illinois Supreme Court ordered that a lawsuit be remanded back to Madison County, where a judge will be tasked with determining whether the plaintiff's asbestos exposure and eventual mesothelioma diagnosis was foreseeable or not.
