Almost everyone is familiar with asbestos’s impact on respiratory health, and it is a proven cause of mesothelioma. However, asbestos can also lead to other health problems. A growing body of evidence suggests there may be a link between asbestos exposure and fertility problems in both men and women.
Mesothelioma and its treatments can cause male infertility, and there are rare cases of testicular mesothelioma.
In women, asbestos exposure has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer and problems with ovulation and menstrual cycles.
While the exact mechanisms by which asbestos affects fertility are not yet fully understood, it is clear that this is an area of concern that merits further study.
Which occupations might this be an issue with?
It can take years to notice the harmful effects of asbestos exposure. Here is a list of some of the most dangerous jobs for asbestos exposure that could have put you at risk of infertility:
- Construction Workers: Asbestos was once a common building material, so construction workers are at risk of exposure when working on older buildings.
- Factory Workers: Factories often used asbestos in insulation and other materials.
- Miners: Asbestos is a mineral sometimes found in mines.
- Shipyard Workers: Shipbuilders used asbestos in insulation and other materials on ships.
- Firefighters and other first responders: Many older buildings contain asbestos; therefore, fires in these sites can release asbestos particles into the air.
If you believe your fertility was damaged due to working with asbestos, don’t hesitate to find out more about your legal options to claim compensation.