Memorial Day Brings Recognition to Asbestos Victims

Article Added May 9th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story

Workers will be honored on Memorial Day by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization. The Day of Remembrance is a step towards increasing awareness of the dangers of asbestos.

More than 56,000 workers will be remembered on Workers Memorial Day by the Asbestos Disease Awareness Organization, a division dedicated to working as the voice of asbestos victims. The number one cause of cancer in the work place, asbestos exposure has fallen since the 1970s, although an estimated 100,000 people die from disease related to exposure every year. Homes, schools and public buildings still contain the hazardous material, making it dangerous for workers in the construction trades. As buildings are repaired or demolished, thousands of workers are exposed to asbestos worldwide.

Thousands will be remembered as lobbyist try to force reforms, not only for increasing safety, but for compensation to those already afflicted. Education and awareness will also be a focus for the day, with an added stress on prevention. Mesothelioma, the most common disease related to asbestos exposure, can take decades to manifest and is often times fatal by the time of detection. Those who have passed while building the country will be somberly remembered during the ceremony.

Article Added May 9th, 2006 - Print This Story - Bookmark This Story