In this video, attorney Eric R. Winnert explains the health risks associated with asbestos exposure, including both malignant diseases—like mesothelioma and lung cancer—and non-malignant conditions such as asbestosis and pleural disease.

Exposure to asbestos—whether through direct occupational contact or secondary exposure, such as laundering contaminated clothing—places individuals at risk for developing asbestos-related diseases. These conditions fall into two primary categories: malignant and non-malignant diseases.

Malignant diseases include mesothelioma and lung cancer. Non-malignant conditions include asbestosis and pleural diseases.

Asbestosis occurs when microscopic asbestos fibers are inhaled and become lodged in the lungs. These fibers are invisible to the naked eye and are resistant to the body’s natural defenses. In response, the immune system attempts to isolate and remove the fibers, leading to inflammation and the formation of scar tissue. Over time, this scarring interferes with the lungs’ ability to expand and contract, causing shortness of breath and other serious respiratory symptoms.

Pleural disease affects the pleura—the thin membrane that surrounds the lungs. This can manifest in several forms, including:

• Pleural plaques, which are localized areas of scar tissue within the pleural lining.

• Pleural thickening, which involves more diffuse scarring and hardening of the pleura.

Both conditions can impact lung function and may be indicators of a more serious underlying disease.

If you have a known history of asbestos exposure, it is important to speak with your physician. Routine imaging, such as chest X-rays or CT scans, may be recommended to monitor for early signs of asbestos-related conditions.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an asbestos-related disease, please consider reaching out to us. At Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford, we treat our clients like family, and we would be honored to represent you.

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Since 1995, the attorneys at Lipsitz, Ponterio & Comerford, LLC have been helping clients in Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse, NY, who have been injured due to asbestos exposure. Through our tireless efforts, we have helped to shape and reform asbestos laws throughout the state of New York. We have a full team of lawyers devoted to representing people exposed to asbestos.

If you have been diagnosed with mesothelioma or lung cancer, please contact us today and we will schedule an appointment to come to your home and meet with you and your family to explain your legal rights.