New Orleans Asbestos Lawyers

New Orleans has a long history with asbestos, and the city’s residents have paid a heavy price. The mineral was once widely used in construction and manufacturing, and many New Orleanians were exposed to it on the job or in their homes.

Today, New Orleans has one of the highest rates of asbestos-related illnesses in the country. Mesothelioma, a rare and deadly cancer caused by asbestos exposure, is particularly prevalent in the city.

Prevalence of Asbestos-Related Illnesses in New Orleans

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), New Orleans has the third-highest rate of mesothelioma in the country. The city also has high rates of asbestosis, a lung disease caused by asbestos exposure.

A 2020 study by the Louisiana Tumor Registry found that the mesothelioma rate in New Orleans was more than twice the national average. The study also found that the rate of mesothelioma among black New Orleanians was more than three times the national average.

Causes of Asbestos-Related Illnesses in New Orleans

There are a number of reasons why asbestos-related illnesses are so prevalent in New Orleans. One reason is that the city has a long history of using asbestos in construction and manufacturing. Asbestos was used in a variety of products, including insulation, roofing materials, and brake pads.

Another reason for the high rate of asbestos-related illnesses in New Orleans is that the city has a large number of workers who were exposed to asbestos on the job. Workers in the construction, shipbuilding, and oil and gas industries were particularly at risk of exposure.

Impact of Asbestos-Related Illnesses on New Orleans Residents

Asbestos-related illnesses have had a devastating impact on New Orleans residents. Mesothelioma is a particularly aggressive form of cancer, and the survival rate is low. Asbestosis can also be a debilitating disease, making it difficult to breathe and exercise.

Asbestos-related illnesses can also have a significant financial impact on New Orleans residents. Medical bills and lost wages can be a major burden for people with these diseases.