Iowa Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
Iowa, like many other states, has faced challenges related to asbestos exposure and subsequent mesothelioma lawsuits. Industries such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture have historically used asbestos-containing materials, putting workers and residents at risk of exposure to harmful asbestos fibers.
Job sites like manufacturing plants, power plants, refineries, and construction sites across Iowa have been associated with asbestos exposure. Workers in these industries often encountered asbestos while handling insulation, pipes, boilers, and other materials containing asbestos. Additionally, agricultural workers may have been exposed to asbestos through the use of asbestos-containing products like insulation in farm buildings or machinery.
Asbestos exposure can lead to serious health issues, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis, with symptoms often appearing decades after initial exposure. As a result, many individuals in Iowa have pursued mesothelioma lawsuits to seek compensation for their medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering caused by asbestos exposure.
Efforts to address asbestos hazards in Iowa include regulations on asbestos handling and disposal, as well as programs for asbestos abatement and remediation. Mesothelioma lawyers in Iowa specialize in representing victims of asbestos exposure and advocating for their rights in legal proceedings. Raising awareness of asbestos risks and implementing preventive measures are crucial for protecting the health and well-being of workers and residents in Iowa.
History of Asbestos Exposure in Iowa
The history of asbestos exposure in Iowa is intertwined with its industrial and construction sectors. Beginning in the early to mid-20th century, asbestos was widely used in various industries across the state due to its heat-resistant and insulating properties. Iowa’s manufacturing plants, power generation facilities, refineries, and construction projects frequently utilized asbestos-containing materials in their operations.
Workers in these industries, including factory workers, construction laborers, insulation installers, and maintenance personnel, were routinely exposed to asbestos fibers while handling, installing, or removing asbestos insulation, pipes, boilers, and other materials. Additionally, workers in shipyards and agricultural settings may have encountered asbestos through equipment and buildings insulated with asbestos-containing materials.
Asbestos exposure in Iowa peaked during the mid-20th century when the use of asbestos was at its height. However, even after the health risks associated with asbestos became widely known, asbestos-containing materials remained in many buildings and structures across the state, posing ongoing risks of exposure.
Who Qualifies for Mesothelioma Lawsuits in Iowa?
In Iowa, individuals seeking compensation for asbestos exposure must meet specific criteria:
Diagnosis: A formal diagnosis of mesothelioma or asbestos-related diseases by a licensed medical professional is required to pursue legal action.
Exposure History: Providing evidence of exposure to asbestos due to negligence from manufacturers, companies, or products is crucial. Detailed documentation of where and when the exposure occurred is essential.
Legal Assistance: Consulting with an experienced attorney specializing in asbestos-related cases is highly recommended. They can assist in gathering necessary documents, building a strong case, and representing individuals in court if needed.
Timely Filing: It’s essential to file asbestos trust fund claims or mesothelioma lawsuits within Iowa’s statute of limitations to ensure eligibility for compensation.
Securing Compensation: Compensation is essential for covering medical expenses, lost wages, and emotional distress caused by asbestos-related illnesses. Seeking guidance from professionals familiar with Iowa’s legal process ensures individuals receive the compensation they rightfully deserve.
TO GET HELP – Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline Number is 888.640.0914
FAQs about Iowa Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits
How were people exposed to asbestos in Iowa?
Exposure to asbestos in Iowa occurred primarily in industrial settings such as factories, construction sites, shipyards, and mining operations. Additionally, individuals may have been exposed to asbestos in buildings containing asbestos-containing materials, such as insulation, roofing materials, and floor tiles.
What health risks are associated with asbestos exposure?
Prolonged exposure to asbestos fibers can lead to serious health conditions, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, and other respiratory diseases.
What is mesothelioma? Mesothelioma is a rare and aggressive form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, or heart. It is primarily caused by exposure to asbestos fibers.
Who is at risk of developing mesothelioma in Iowa?
Individuals who worked in industries with high levels of asbestos exposure, such as manufacturing, construction, mining, and automotive repair, are at increased risk of developing mesothelioma. Additionally, family members of workers exposed to asbestos may also be at risk due to secondary exposure.
How can I know if I’ve been exposed to asbestos?
If you have worked in industries known to use asbestos or have lived or worked in buildings containing asbestos-containing materials, you may have been exposed to asbestos. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional if you believe you have been exposed to asbestos and are experiencing symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, or persistent cough.
What legal options are available for individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma in Iowa?
Individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma in Iowa may be eligible to file a lawsuit against the parties responsible for their asbestos exposure. This legal action can help them recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages associated with their illness.
How can I find a mesothelioma lawyer in Iowa?
It’s crucial to work with an experienced mesothelioma lawyer who specializes in asbestos litigation. You can research law firms with expertise in handling mesothelioma cases in Iowa and schedule consultations to discuss your legal options.
Is there a time limit for filing a mesothelioma lawsuit in Iowa?
Yes, Iowa has a statute of limitations that sets a deadline for filing personal injury lawsuits, including those related to mesothelioma. It’s essential to consult with a mesothelioma lawyer as soon as possible to ensure your legal rights are protected.
Can I receive financial assistance if I’ve been diagnosed with mesothelioma in Iowa?
Yes, individuals diagnosed with mesothelioma in Iowa may be eligible to receive compensation through asbestos trust funds, settlements, or jury verdicts obtained through legal action. Additionally, various resources and support services are available to help mesothelioma patients and their families navigate the challenges associated with the disease.
Iowa Asbestos Exposure Hot Spots
More than 131,000 tons of asbestos shipments were received in the state of Iowa. High asbestos exposure was in Douglas County, Lancaster County, Sarpy County, Lincoln County and Cass County.
Construction Sites:
Construction sites in Iowa often utilized asbestos-containing materials like insulation, cement, and roofing. Workers involved in renovations or demolitions faced exposure as asbestos fibers were released during cutting or drilling.
Factories:
Factories in Iowa, particularly those in manufacturing industries like automotive and aerospace, used asbestos in machinery, gaskets, and insulation. Workers handling equipment or working near asbestos-containing materials risked exposure.
Power Plants:
Power plants in Iowa used asbestos in equipment such as boilers, turbines, and pipes. Maintenance workers, boiler operators, and electricians were exposed to asbestos fibers during repairs, leading to potential health hazards.
Refineries:
Refineries across Iowa employed asbestos in insulation, pipes, and machinery due to its heat-resistant properties. Workers involved in maintenance, repair, or installation tasks faced exposure to asbestos dust and fibers.
Shipyards:
Shipyards along Iowa’s waterways utilized asbestos extensively in shipbuilding materials like insulation, gaskets, and pipes. Shipyard workers handling or installing these materials faced exposure risks during construction and repairs.
Steel Mills:
Steel mills in Iowa utilized asbestos-containing materials for insulation in high-temperature areas like furnaces and ovens. Workers involved in steel production, maintenance, or repair were at risk of inhaling asbestos fibers.
Textile Mills:
Textile mills in Iowa used asbestos in machinery, textiles, and insulation. Workers involved in textile production, maintenance, or repair tasks faced exposure to asbestos fibers released during equipment operation or maintenance.
Oil Refineries:
Oil refineries in Iowa employed asbestos in insulation, piping, and equipment due to its fireproofing properties. Workers involved in refinery operations, maintenance, or repairs were at risk of asbestos exposure.
Railroad Yards:
Railroad yards in Iowa used asbestos in locomotives, brakes, and insulation. Workers involved in railroad maintenance, repair, or renovation tasks faced exposure to asbestos fibers released during equipment handling or repair.
Chemical Plants:
Chemical plants in Iowa utilized asbestos in insulation, machinery, and protective gear. Workers involved in chemical production, maintenance, or equipment repair faced exposure risks during handling or repair tasks.
Automotive Plants:
Automotive plants in Iowa used asbestos in brake pads, gaskets, and insulation. Workers involved in automotive manufacturing, maintenance, or repair tasks faced exposure to asbestos fibers released during equipment handling or repair.
Foundries:
Foundries in Iowa utilized asbestos in insulation, protective gear, and machinery. Workers involved in foundry operations, maintenance, or equipment repair faced exposure risks as asbestos fibers were released during handling or repair tasks.
Asbestos Cover up – Quotes from Asbestos Executives
Evidence in thousands of court documents have shown that asbestos companies hid and destroyed memos, documents and ignored doctor’s medical reports about the dangers of asbestos exposure. Despite all of the information about the deadly dangers of asbestos exposure available in the scientific and medical literature asbestos companies chose not to take any action to protect workers.
They chose profit over the safety of their workers and then lied and covered it up. This is why U. S. Courts are making asbestos manufacturers and companies pay millions to asbestos victims for their asbestos cover up.
“…if you have enjoyed a good life while working with asbestos products, why not die from it.” 1966 memo from an executive of the Bendix Corporation (now part of Honeywell)
In early 1940s, the president of Johns-Manville called the managers of another company “a bunch of fools for notifying employees who had asbestosis.” When asked by another company executive, “Do you mean to tell me you would let them work until they drop dead?” he responded, “Yes. We save a lot of money that way.”
Iowa Mesothelioma Statistics (Asbestos-Related Deaths)
- Iowa ranks 24th in the U. S. for deaths from malignant Mesothelioma.
- The mortality rate from Mesothelioma in Iowa is 9.2 per million.
- 670 Iowa residents died from malignant Mesothelioma.
- 758 asbestos-related deaths were reported in Iowa since 1979.
- Polk County, IA has more than 108 asbestos-related deaths and more than 88 Mesothelioma Deaths.
*Statistics on Mesothelioma and asbestos related deaths were compiled from CDC (Center for Disease Control’s National Center for Health Statistics), and NIOSH (National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) and other cancer reporting sources.
Mesothelioma Facts and Statistics
- More than 20 million American workers have been exposed to asbestos.
- Mesothelioma cases are found in 9 out of every 1 million people.
- 3,000 new cases of Mesothelioma are diagnosed each year in the U. S.
- Each year in U. S 10,000 Americans will die from an asbestos related disease.
- 30% of U. S. Veterans will develop an asbestos-related disease in their lifetime.
- 1 in 125 U. S. males who live over the age of 50 will die from an asbestos-related disease.
- Experts believe 60,000 Malignant Mesothelioma deaths will occur between 2010 and 2030.
Iowa Veterans and Asbestos Exposure
- Military Veterans that have a 1 in 3 chance of developing an asbestos related disease in their lifetime. Veterans have the right to bring lawsuits against negligent asbestos companies for exposing them to toxic asbestos-containing products and materials.
- There are 21.5 million current living Veterans according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Veterans who served between 1940 and 1970 have the greatest risk of developing Mesothelioma or an asbestos-related cancer. Navy Veterans who served during World War II and the Korean War have the highest incidence of Asbestos-related diseases.
- The U.S. Military used thousands of asbestos-containing products in their ships between the 1920-late 1970’s. 14 in every 1,000 WW II shipyard workers died of an asbestos-related disease compared to 18 in every 1,000 combat related deaths.
- Mesothelioma primarily occurs in Veterans between the ages of 55-75.
Asbestos was listed as the top contaminant at 32 U.S. Army base closures during the 1990s.
A recent study showed that as many as 30-40% of Mesothelioma victims is U. S. Veterans.
FIND OUT IF YOU QUALIFY TODAY! – Call Our Nationwide Toll-Free Mesothelioma Helpline – 888.640.0914
Asbestos Trust Funds and Mesothelioma Claims in Iowa
In West Virginia, asbestos exposure has been deeply intertwined with key industrial sectors such as coal mining, chemical manufacturing, and construction. Throughout the 20th century, asbestos was extensively used in various industries for its heat resistance, posing significant risks to workers.
Coal miners were exposed to asbestos fibers through equipment and protective gear, while chemical manufacturing facilities utilized asbestos in machinery. Construction projects incorporated asbestos-containing materials like insulation and roofing, further contributing to exposure risks.
The consequences of asbestos exposure have been profound, with many individuals developing asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. Despite regulatory efforts, the legacy of asbestos exposure persists, emphasizing the ongoing need for awareness, safety measures, and proper asbestos abatement practices to protect public health in West Virginia.
Asbestos Exposure in Iowa Cities:
Iowa cities have grappled with asbestos exposure, particularly in industries and older infrastructure. Places like Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, and Davenport have seen asbestos use in manufacturing, construction, and shipbuilding. Aging buildings and infrastructure renovations continue to pose risks, emphasizing the need for awareness and safety protocols.
| Ames, IA | Fort Dodge, IA |
|---|---|
| Ames experienced asbestos exposure primarily in its industrial facilities, construction sites, and older buildings, where asbestos-containing materials were commonly used, endangering workers and residents. | Fort Dodge’s manufacturing plants, power plants, and construction sites used asbestos-containing materials extensively, posing risks of asbestos exposure to workers and nearby communities. |
| Ankeny, IA | Iowa City, IA |
|---|---|
| Ankeny’s construction projects, automotive facilities, and manufacturing plants used asbestos-containing materials, exposing workers to asbestos fibers and increasing the risk of asbestos-related diseases. | Iowa City’s industrial sector, including factories and refineries, exposed workers to asbestos fibers, leading to health hazards such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. |
| Bettendorf, IA | Johnston, IA |
|---|---|
| Bettendorf’s shipbuilding industry and manufacturing plants used asbestos products, exposing workers to asbestos fibers and putting them at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. | Johnston’s industrial facilities, including factories and refineries, were sources of asbestos exposure, leading to health risks for workers and nearby residents. |
| Burlington, IA | Marion, IA |
|---|---|
| Burlington’s industrial sites, including factories and chemical plants, exposed workers to asbestos fibers, increasing the risk of asbestos-related diseases such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. | Marion’s construction projects, manufacturing plants, and industrial facilities used asbestos-containing materials, endangering workers and residents through exposure to asbestos fibers. |
| Cedar Falls, IA | Marshalltown, IA |
|---|---|
| Cedar Falls’ industrial sites, particularly its factories and construction projects, posed risks of asbestos exposure to workers due to the prevalent use of asbestos-containing materials. | Marshalltown’s manufacturing facilities and construction projects used asbestos-containing materials extensively, resulting in widespread asbestos exposure among workers. |
| Cedar Rapids, IA | Mason City, IA |
|---|---|
| Cedar Rapids’ industrial sector, including its factories and shipyards, exposed workers to asbestos fibers, leading to occupational health hazards such as mesothelioma and lung cancer. | Mason City’s manufacturing plants, refineries, and construction projects used asbestos-containing materials, posing health risks to workers and nearby communities. |
| Clinton, IA | Muscatine, IA |
|---|---|
| Clinton’s shipbuilding industry and manufacturing plants used asbestos products, exposing workers to asbestos fibers and putting them at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases. | Muscatine’s industrial facilities, including chemical plants and refineries, exposed workers to asbestos, leading to health risks like mesothelioma and lung disease. |
| Clive, IA | Newton, IA |
|---|---|
| Clive’s construction projects, automotive plants, and manufacturing facilities used asbestos-containing materials, endangering workers and residents through exposure to asbestos fibers. | Newton’s manufacturing facilities, power plants, and construction sites were sources of asbestos exposure, endangering workers’ health and safety. |
| Coralville, IA | Ottumwa, IA |
|---|---|
| Coralville’s construction projects, industrial plants, and shipyards used asbestos-containing materials extensively, posing risks of asbestos exposure to workers and nearby residents. | Ottumwa’s factories, refineries, and construction projects used asbestos products, exposing workers to asbestos fibers and increasing the risk of asbestos-related diseases. |
| Council Bluffs, IA | Sioux City, IA |
|---|---|
| Council Bluffs’ industrial sector, including its factories and railroads, exposed workers to asbestos fibers, leading to health hazards such as mesothelioma and asbestosis. | Sioux City’s manufacturing plants, refineries, and construction projects used asbestos-containing materials, posing health risks to workers and nearby communities. |
| Davenport, IA | Urbandale, IA |
|---|---|
| Davenport’s industrial sites, including factories and shipyards, used asbestos products, endangering workers and residents through asbestos exposure in the air and soil. | Urbandale’s construction projects, manufacturing plants, and automotive facilities used asbestos-containing materials, posing risks of asbestos exposure to workers and residents. |
| Des Moines, IA | Waterloo, IA |
|---|---|
| Des Moines’ industrial facilities, construction sites, and residential buildings used asbestos-containing materials, putting workers and residents at risk of asbestos exposure and related health issues. | Waterloo’s industrial sites, including its factories and chemical plants, exposed workers to asbestos fibers, leading to health hazards such as mesothelioma and lung disease. |
Asbestos Exposure in Iowa Counties:
Asbestos exposure isn’t confined to Iowa’s urban centers; it spans various counties statewide. Counties like Polk, Linn, and Scott have documented cases of asbestos-related illnesses linked to industrial operations and aging structures. Workers in sectors such as manufacturing, construction, and agriculture face significant risks. Preventative measures and legal recourse are vital for protecting the health of residents and workers across Iowa’s counties.
| Iowa | Counties | Asbestos Exposure |
|---|---|---|
| Adair County, IA | Floyd County, IA | Monona County, IA |
| Adams County, IA | Franklin County, IA | Monroe County, IA |
| Allamakee County, IA | Fremont County, IA | Montgomery County, IA |
| Appanoose County, IA | Greene County, IA | Muscatine County, IA |
| Audubon County, IA | Grundy County, IA | O’Brien County, IA |
| Benton County, IA | Guthrie County, IA | Osceola County, IA |
| Black Hawk County, IA | Hamilton County, IA | Page County, IA |
| Boone County, IA | Hancock County, IA | Palo Alto County, IA |
| Bremer County, IA | Hardin County, IA | Plymouth County, IA |
| Buchanan County, IA | Harrison County, IA | Pocahontas County, IA |
| Buena Vista County, IA | Henry County, IA | Polk County, IA |
| Butler County, IA | Howard County, IA | Pottawattamie County, IA |
| Calhoun County, IA | Humboldt County, IA | Poweshiek County, IA |
| Carroll County, IA | Ida County, IA | Ringgold County, IA |
| Cass County, IA | Iowa County, IA | Sac County, IA |
| Cedar County, IA | Jackson County, IA | Scott County, IA |
| Cerro Gordo County, IA | Jasper County, IA | Shelby County, IA |
| Cherokee County, IA | Jefferson County, IA | Sioux County, IA |
| Chickasaw County, IA | Johnson County, IA | Story County, IA |
| Clarke County, IA | Jones County, IA | Tama County, IA |
| Clay County, IA | Keokuk County, IA | Taylor County, IA |
| Clayton County, IA | Kossuth County, IA | Union County, IA |
| Clinton County, IA | Lee County, IA | Van Buren County, IA |
| Crawford County, IA | Linn County, IA | Wapello County, IA |
| Dallas County, IA | Louisa County, IA | Warren County, IA |
| Davis County, IA | Lucas County, IA | Washington County, IA |
| Decatur County, IA | Lyon County, IA | Wayne County, IA |
| Delaware County, IA | Madison County, IA | Webster County, IA |
| Des Moines County, IA | Mahaska County, IA | Winnebago County, IA |
| Dickinson County, IA | Marion County, IA | Winneshiek County, IA |
| Dubuque County, IA | Marshall County, IA | Woodbury County, IA |
| Emmet County, IA | Mills County, IA | Worth County, IA |
| Fayette County, IA | Mitchell County, IA | Wright County, IA |
What is Mesothelioma Cancer?
Malignant mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, heart, and other major organs in the body. It is characterized by the presence of malignant cancer cells in the sac lining the chest (pleura) or the abdomen (peritoneum). In the United States, approximately 3,000 new cases of malignant mesothelioma are diagnosed each year. If you are experiencing any symptoms of mesothelioma, it is important to contact a doctor immediately for evaluation and diagnosis.
Diagnosed With Mesothelioma?
If you or a family member has received a diagnosis of malignant mesothelioma, you probably have numerous questions about managing the illness and pursuing legal recourse against asbestos manufacturers and companies accountable for your asbestos exposure. Mesothelioma is an extremely lethal disease, with an average survival time of 4-18 months, as per the American Cancer Society. Reach out to our toll-free number now to connect with a live mesothelioma counselor who can address many of your inquiries and offer you the reassurance you seek.
Family Member Died from Mesothelioma?
If you have a family member who has died from Mesothelioma cancer, you should immediately consult with an experienced Mesothelioma diagnosis lawyer about what compensation may be available to you from asbestos trust funds that total more than $30 billion.
We have seen many families lose their right to file a lawsuit because their Statute of Limitations had expired while they were grieving. We know it is a tough time to grieve the loss of a loved one, but please do not let your Statute of Limitations expire for filing your Mesothelioma lawsuit. In most states, the Statute of Limitations is 1-3 years.
It is VERY IMPORTANT that you file your Mesothelioma claim within your state’s Statute of Limitations.
Taking Legal Action
When confronted with the devastating impact of a mesothelioma diagnosis resulting from asbestos exposure, pursuing legal action becomes a crucial step towards securing the compensation you rightly deserve. Our team is here to assist you in initiating a mesothelioma lawsuit with an experienced mesothelioma attorney, ensuring the protection of your rights and the delivery of justice. Discover today which Asbestos Trust Funds you may be eligible for to receive compensation.
Schedule a FREE Case Consultation
Scheduling a free case consultation is your first step toward seeking justice in mesothelioma cancer lawsuits. We are ready to assess your unique situation and provide the guidance you will need during this challenging time. Take this essential step toward pursuing fair compensation for your mesothelioma-related injuries.
Get Help from an Experienced Mesothelioma Attorney
When dealing with the complexities of mesothelioma cancer lawsuits, getting help from an experienced injury attorney is crucial. For more than 24 years, we have assisted workers, veterans, and families in obtaining the compensation they deserved from negligent asbestos companies. Contact us at 888.640.0914 to secure the support you will need throughout your pursuit of fair and just compensation.
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Iowa, Asbestos Exposure and Mesothelioma Lawsuits