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Asbestosis in women

By October 6, 2009 - 9:20am
 
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my mother-in-law sadly died last week from lung cancer caused by asbestos, she has never worked in the asbestos industry and as fas as she knew had never been exposed to it in her working life. How can this be possible, for her to lose her life to asbestosis? Could it have developed simply by washing her 'plumber' husbands clothes for many years? - thanks Angela

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Angela,

I am so sorry to hear about your mother-in-law. I am surprised by this, but yes, a person can develop asbestosis from the asbestos found on family's clothing. Risk factors include:
* People who handle asbestos material at their workplace:
* Family members of people who work with asbestos and bring the fibers home on their hair or clothing
* People who work at sites where asbestos is found
* Smoking

https://www.empowher.com/media/reference/asbestosis#causes

Again, I am surprised by this, and I feel that many more women should hear your mother-in-laws story. I am wondering if her husband is still alive?

October 6, 2009 - 2:58pm
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