Many industries once used asbestos in a wide range of products, from insulation to fire retardants. It is now understood that exposure to this dangerous mineral can lead to fatal diseases, such as mesothelioma and lung cancer.

Each year, members of the cancer community recognize Mesothelioma Awareness Day (MAD) by spreading awareness about the disease. Mesothelioma is a preventable type of cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Today, laws prohibit new uses of asbestos in the U.S, but construction workers continue to be at risk of exposure from old uses of the mineral.

Across the globe it’s estimated that 1 in 10 people will become sick due to respiratory hazards encountered in the workplace annually, according to The American Journal of Respiratory Care and Medicine.

Mesothelioma Awareness Day is on September 26, and is a day to recognize the importance of asbestos prevention in the workplace. 

A measure currently being considered by lawmakers is coming under fire by occupational safety advocates who say that it would delay compensation for people suffering from mesothelioma and require victims to disclose personal information – such as social security numbers – thus making them vulnerable to identify theft.

An asbestos victims’ group says a bill passed recently by the U.S. House of Representatives would make it more difficult for those harmed by asbestos to get compensation.