While mesothelioma is most commonly associated with men working in heavy industries, many women in Pennsylvania have also been exposed to asbestos, often without knowing it. For decades, women were put at risk of developing asbestos-related diseases not only through their own employment, but through secondary exposure, handling the contaminated work clothing of family members or working in buildings where asbestos was present. There are cases of mesothelioma in women from both direct and secondary exposure.
This lesser-known form of exposure has tragically affected thousands of women across the state, especially in regions with deep industrial roots like Bethlehem, Allentown, and Pittsburgh.
How Were Women Exposed?
In most cases, women were not employed in factories or shipyards, the high-risk environments typically associated with asbestos exposure. Instead, they were exposed in the following ways:
- Washing or shaking out asbestos-laden work clothes brought home by husbands, fathers, or sons
- Living near industrial plants or asbestos manufacturing sites
- Working in older schools, hospitals, or office buildings containing deteriorating asbestos insulation or flooring
Inhaling even small amounts of asbestos fibers over time can lead to serious diseases such as mesothelioma, asbestosis, and lung cancer. That being the case, women could have worked in factories or industrial job sites in which asbestos exposure was common.
Symptoms of Mesothelioma in Women
Like men, women exposed to asbestos may not develop symptoms for decades. Once symptoms appear, they often mimic other common illnesses, which can delay diagnosis.
Common signs include:
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Persistent dry cough
- Chest or abdominal pain
- Fatigue or general weakness
- Loss of appetite and unexplained weight loss
Because of their atypical exposure histories, many women are misdiagnosed or dismissed, leading to delays in treatment and legal recourse. It is important that the instances of mesothelioma in women are recognized so that a timely diagnosis can be made.
Are Women Eligible for Asbestos Compensation?
Yes. Women who were exposed to asbestos secondhand through their household or workplace and later diagnosed with mesothelioma or another asbestos-related disease may be entitled to compensation. Legal options include:
- Filing a personal injury lawsuit
- Pursuing compensation through asbestos trust funds
- Submitting a wrongful death claim on behalf of a deceased loved one
Asbestos trust funds were established by companies that filed for bankruptcy due to overwhelming asbestos liability. These funds allow victims, including women exposed secondhand, to pursue financial compensation without going through a lengthy court process.
How Can I Get Help?
The best way to pursue compensation is by contacting a law firm that specializes in asbestos litigation. At the Halpern Law Firm, we have over 35 years of experience helping Pennsylvania families secure the justice and financial relief they deserve.
Our team will:
- Review your exposure history
- Determine your eligibility for asbestos trust funds
- File your claim for you at no upfront cost
- Help you access medical and support resources
To find out more information about your eligibility for women with asbestos, call (800) 505-6000, fill out our contact form, or utilize our chat feature, and someone will be in touch with you right away.
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC464367/
https://oem.bmj.com/content/75/4/254
