When you think of Wyoming, you probably picture wide-open spaces, stunning national parks, and a rugged, independent spirit. What you might not associate with the state is a serious health concern: mesothelioma. While Wyoming’s overall population is small, the state has a higher-than-average rate of mesothelioma deaths, a cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos.
This blog post delves into the reasons behind this surprising statistic, exploring the history of asbestos use in Wyoming and highlighting the industries and locations where exposure was most prevalent.
The Asbestos Connection: Why Wyoming is at Risk
Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral once prized for its heat resistance, durability, and insulating properties. It was used extensively in a wide range of industries and products, particularly during the 20th century. In Wyoming, this legacy of asbestos use is a key factor in the state’s elevated mesothelioma rates.
1. Natural Deposits: Wyoming is home to a number of naturally occurring asbestos sites, including mines in Fremont and Natrona counties. This mining activity, particularly in the early 1900s, exposed miners and local residents to dangerous asbestos fibers.
2. Industrial Exposure: Wyoming’s economy has long been driven by industries that historically relied heavily on asbestos. The state’s power plants, oil refineries, and chemical plants all used asbestos in insulation, machinery, and building materials to protect against high heat and fire. Workers in these facilities were frequently exposed to asbestos fibers, especially during maintenance, repair, and demolition work. Some of the most well-known exposure sites include:
- Power Plants: David Johnson Power Plant, Gillette Power Plant, Jim Bridger Power Station, and Laramie River Power Plant.
- Oil Refineries: Sinclair Oil Refinery, Husky Oil Refinery, and Texaco Oil Refineries.
- Chemical Plants: Stauffer Chemical Plant.
3. The Military Connection: F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Cheyenne is also a known site of asbestos exposure. Military personnel, particularly those involved in construction and maintenance, were at risk due to the widespread use of asbestos in barracks, missile silos, and other base buildings.
The Numbers Tell the Story
According to data from various sources, including the Centers for Disease Control and the Environmental Working Group, Wyoming has a significant number of asbestos-related deaths. Between 1999 and 2017, for example, 549 people in Wyoming died from asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. The state’s mesothelioma death rate is also reported to be higher than the national average.
This problem is not evenly distributed across the state. Statistics indicate that Natrona and Laramie counties have the highest rates of asbestos-related deaths, a reflection of the industrial and military activity in those areas.
What to Do If You’ve Been Exposed
Mesothelioma has a long latency period, often taking decades to develop after initial asbestos exposure. This means that many people diagnosed today were exposed to asbestos in the workplace or a residential setting 30, 40, or even 50 years ago.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with mesothelioma and have a history of working or living in Wyoming, it is crucial to consult with a medical professional and consider seeking legal counsel. Experienced mesothelioma lawyers can help you identify potential sources of exposure and understand your legal options.
While asbestos regulations have been in place for decades, the legacy of its use continues to affect communities in Wyoming. By raising awareness of this hidden danger, we can help protect current residents and provide support for those who have been impacted by this devastating disease.
