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Case-Control Study Of Diet And Mesothelioma In Louisiana - (1988)

Authors: M.H.S. Schiffman,L.W. Pickle,E. Fontham,S. Hoar Zahm,R. Falk,J. Mele,P. Correa,"J.F. Fraumeni, JR"
Published In: Cancer Research
Link to Study: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3359447/

Case-Control Study of Diet and Mesothelioma in Louisiana: Legal Implications for Asbestos Exposure Cases

Abstract
The study "Case-Control Study of Diet and Mesothelioma in Louisiana," published in Cancer Research (1988), investigates the link between asbestos exposure and malignant mesothelioma, with a secondary focus on dietary habits. Conducted by Schiffman et al., the research analyzed 37 mesothelioma patients (32 pleural and 5 peritoneal) and matched controls based on age, sex, race, and other factors. The study found that 57% of mesothelioma cases had definite asbestos exposure compared to only 19% of controls, underscoring the strong association between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma. While dietary factors were explored, the findings reaffirmed asbestos exposure as the primary risk factor for the disease.

Legal Relevance
This study provides critical evidence for legal claims involving asbestos-related diseases. The strong statistical link between asbestos exposure and mesothelioma supports causation arguments in court. The study also highlights occupational exposure pathways, such as shipbuilding, construction, and manufacturing, which can be used to demonstrate employer negligence or product liability. Furthermore, the exclusion of smoking-related diseases and the focus on asbestos exposure counter common defense claims that other factors caused the disease. The study’s findings strengthen the argument that asbestos exposure is the predominant cause of mesothelioma, making it a valuable resource in litigation.

Occupation Groups at Risk
The study identifies several high-risk occupations, including:

  • Shipbuilders and Shipyard Workers: Frequent exposure to asbestos in insulation and ship components.
  • Construction Workers: Asbestos in cement, insulation, and other building materials.
  • Manufacturing Workers: Exposure in asbestos product manufacturing plants.
  • Sugar Cane Workers and Cement Factory Employees: Possible exposure through industrial processes.
    These groups are at heightened risk due to prolonged and intense asbestos exposure in their work environments.

Current Medical Understanding
The study aligns with current medical knowledge, which identifies asbestos exposure as the leading cause of mesothelioma. While the role of diet remains inconclusive, modern research continues to emphasize the overwhelming impact of asbestos exposure on mesothelioma development. The study reinforces the need for stringent occupational safety measures to prevent exposure.

Citation
Schiffman, M. H., Pickle, L. W., Fontham, E., Zahm, S. H., Falk, R., Mele, J., Correa, P., & Fraumeni, J. F. Jr. (1988). Case-control study of diet and mesothelioma in Louisiana. Cancer Research, 48(10), 2911-2915. PMID: 3359447.

National Library of Medicine Link
For further details, visit the study on the National Library of Medicine: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/3359447/

Contact Us Today
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, lung cancer, asbestosis, or other asbestos-related diseases, our legal team is here to help. We specialize in securing compensation for individuals harmed by asbestos exposure. Contact us today for a free consultation and let us fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.