On Job Screenings to Reduce Mesothelioma Diagnoses
A guide for Labor Unions and Employee Advocacy Groups
There’s an easy way for Unions and Employee Advocacy Groups to enhance their support and protection for members. For employees whose work exposes them to harmful substances such as asbestos, having access to early radiology screenings can be the difference between life and death.
While several companies have jumped at the opportunity to provide their employees with greater support by offering yearly at-work screenings, there are many others who are unaware of these life-saving services. Louisiana, in particular, has some of the highest risk factors for asbestos exposure. Ensuring these workers are provided with access to regular screening is the best way to reduce cases of Mesothelioma.
In fact, The Mesothelioma Center reported that “Asbestos-related diseases claimed the lives of at least 856 Louisiana residents between 1999 and 2013.”
Anyone working in the following industries is an ideal candidate for early/regular chest x-rays to screen for Mesothelioma:
- Oil Companies
- Refineries
- Shipping Companies
- Industrial Plants
- Chemical Plants
- Construction Companies
- Fire Stations
- Textile Mills
- Power Plants
How screenings reduce the number of Mesothelioma cases
Because the disease has not spread extensively in stage I and II, an early diagnosis can improve life expectancy. By the time the disease reaches stage 3 or 4 life expectancy is 12 months or less. American Cancer Society
In addition to greater life expectancy, when Mesothelioma is diagnosed in early stages, more aggressive treatments are available.
Chest x-ray
Chest X-Rays will show signs of asbestos exposure even before there are outward symptoms.Providing yearly screenings to at-risk employees offers the best chance for survival. Unions and Employee Advocacy groups have made a tremendous impact by encouraging companies to offer employee screening. By informing companies of convenient, cost-effective ways to provide employee screening, we can further reduce the risk of Mesothelioma, lung cancer and other diseases.
How to set up yearly screenings:
If you need help educating an employer, or are ready to move on the next step of scheduling screenings, contact us at Alpha One Imaging. We have a track record of excellence in working with companies and employees to ensure safe, convenient, and cost-effective services.