Category: Articles

  • Social Security: W-2s, 1099s and Benefits

    April’s showers bring more than just May’s flowers — they also bring the deadline day for filing taxes. Don’t wait until the showers arrive to prepare for tax season. Whether you are a small business owner, a retiree, or a new parent, here are some Social Security tax tips that may help you.

    Are Social Security benefits taxable?

    They are for some people. About one third of those receiving benefits must pay taxes on some of their Social Security. If your total income, including Social Security and all of your other taxable income, is $25,000 or more and you file federal taxes as an individual, you’ll need to pay federal taxes on some of your benefits. (That amount is $32,000 for married couples filing a joint return.)

    Will I get a tax form for my Social Security benefits?

    Yes. In fact, you should have already received it. Social Security Benefit Statements (Form SSA-1099) for tax year 2012 were mailed to beneficiaries and should’ve been received by January 31, 2013. If you receive Social Security and haven’t received your 1099, you can request one online at www.socialsecurity.gov/1099.

    We had our first child in 2012. Does our baby need a Social Security Number?

    Yes. Most people apply for their baby’s Social Security number while they’re still in the hospital at the same time they apply for the birth certificate. But if you didn’t, you’ll need to apply for your child’s Social Security number in order to claim the child as a dependent on your tax return. You’ll also need it if you ever apply for government benefits on behalf of the child or your family. Learn more about Social Security cards and numbers at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

    I changed my name when I got married last year. Do I need to report it to Social Security?

    Yes. If you’ve legally changed your name due to marriage, divorce, court order, or for any other reason, make sure you change your name with Social Security, as well as with your employer. If you change with one source but not the other, it could cause your earnings to be improperly recorded. That could result in you not getting all the benefits you earned when you become eligible for Social Security in the future. You can learn more about your Social Security number and how to change your name at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

    I own a small business. Can I report the W-2s of my employees online to Social Security?

    Yes, and we encourage you to do so at www.socialsecurity.gov/bso. Filing your W-2s electronically is free, fast, and secure! Plus there’s an added bonus: when you file electronically, you receive an extra month to file because electronically filed W-2s aren’t due until March 31st. You’ll also receive an electronic acknowledgement receipt. And when you file electronically, you can print out your W-2s for your employees.

    Does Social Security have any advice to make tax filing and future benefit applications go smoothly?

    We encourage you to carefully check your name, Social Security number and all of the data on your W-2s, your online Social Security Statement, and Social Security card to make sure they all match. If you don’t have access to your card or statement but know your Social Security number, make sure the number and information is correct on your W-2s. A mismatch could delay your tax refund and cause problems with your Social Security benefits in the future. Such errors are much easier to fix now. If you do notice an error, you should contact Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 (TTY 1-800-325-0778), or if the information on the W-2 is incorrect, notify your employer.

    For more information about Social Security, visit www.socialsecurity.gov.

    Social Security Administration - Generations Magazine - June-July 2013

    April’s showers bring more than just May’s flowers — they also bring the deadline day for filing taxes. Don’t wait until the showers arrive to prepare for tax season. Whether you are a small business owner, a retiree, or a new parent, here are some Social Security tax tips that may help you. Are Social Security benefits…

  • Wisdom Tooth: Smile Rejuvenation

    My teeth are yellow, chipping and make me look so old. What can be done to have my smile look younger and my teeth stronger? Are crowns or caps the only solution?

    Widsom Tooth Vaneer - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013These are the questions I hear often. As people get older they become concerned about their teeth looking yellowed, darkened, worn down, showing cracks, or being different colors. Solutions for making a smile look refreshed, brighter, youthful and stronger (or a “Smile Rejuvenation”) vary, depending on a patient’s needs.

    In today’s technology we no longer have to fully crown or cap teeth to have them be healthy. I have found that porcelain veneers are an excellent solution for many seniors, for healthier and stronger teeth. The myth about porcelain veneers is they just make a smile beautiful.

    Porcelain veneers allow the dentist to remove the least amount of tooth structure while reinforcing your natural teeth. Veneers, which are thin shells that fit over the front of your teeth, are often used as a minimal invasive alternative to crowns. Porcelain veneers allow you to have a natural, youthful smile, by brightening the color and altering the shape of the teeth. These restorations are ideal to have your teeth not only look better but be stronger as well, when the goal is to keep your teeth for a lifetime.

    For more information call our office for a complimentary consultation.


    Wynn H. Okuda, DMD, Inc.

    Cosmetic, Implant and Restorative Dentistry
    3660 Waialae Ave., Suite 315, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96816

    808-734-1099 | www.cosmeticdentistryhawaii.com

    My teeth are yellow, chipping and make me look so old. What can be done to have my smile look younger and my teeth stronger? Are crowns or caps the only solution? These are the questions I hear often. As people get older they become concerned about their teeth looking yellowed, darkened, worn down, showing…

  • The Talk

    It is the holiday season — the time, maybe the only time of the year, when families get together. There will be lots of food, fun, songs, and presents. But, this may also be a good time for THE TALK. We have visited with many experts on the Elderhood Project who have told us over and over again, THE TALK is vital. Adult children are encouraged to sit down with their elderly parents and find out what they want for — for lack of a better phrase — end of life.

    This conversation should include things like how they want to be remembered, where they want to lie in rest, and what medical directives they have; and this is a hard one. As a child, you will likely want your senior parent to hang on to life as long as possible, no matter what. But again, experts tell us, there comes a time in everyone’s life when they want to let go. That’s why THE TALK is important. It doesn’t have to be treated with gloom and doom. You may find, as you talk to a senior, they have lots of wonderful memories. These are things that must be noted. When the time is appropriate, those memories can be shared with other family members and friends.

    It’s not like playing Jeopardy. The questions you ask the seniors, are the ones they know the answers to. It’s just the fact that nobody may have asked those questions before.

    I don’t bring these thoughts up lightly. My mother and I have had THE TALK…not just about her, but me as well. It’s probably a good idea to have that conversation with your “significant other.” The important thing is to start the conversation. It won’t be easy. But you will be glad you did.

    It is the holiday season — the time, maybe the only time of the year, when families get together. There will be lots of food, fun, songs, and presents. But, this may also be a good time for THE TALK. We have visited with many experts on the Elderhood Project who have told us over and over…

  • Dental Implants

    Question: What are dental implants? What are the benefits and how do I know if I’m a good candidate?

    Answer: Dental implants are a replacement for the root of your missing tooth. Invented in Sweden, they have been a part of restorative dentistry for over 35 years!

    Dental Implants - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013Dental implants are used to replace a single tooth, several teeth or a whole arch of teeth. They are made of ultra-strong titanium, and look like a large screw. Implants stabilize the restoration that sits on it and stimulates bone growth around the implant. Without a tooth or implant there, the bone and gums tend to recede away.

    Some people have dental implants placed because they are tired of their ill-fitting denture or not having teeth all the time. More importantly implants ensure that you enjoy a nutritious diet. Good nutrition and overall health is highly dependent on the ability to chew a variety of food.

    The Academy of General Dentistry states a good candidate for implants must be in good health, maintain regular dental visits, have a comprehensive exam and diagnostic xrays (CT scan), healthy gums, adequate bone structure, and excellent oral hygiene habits such as brushing and flossing. Even if you don’t have enough bone structure, there are bone grafting techniques that can help rebuild bone prior to implant placement. For more info, ask your dentist or visit www.cosmeticdentistryhawaii.com


    Wynn H. Okuda, DMD, Inc.

    Cosmetic, Implant and Restorative Dentistry
    3660 Waialae Ave., Suite 315, Honolulu, Hawai‘i 96816

    808-734-1099 | www.cosmeticdentistryhawaii.com

    Question: What are dental implants? What are the benefits and how do I know if I’m a good candidate? Answer: Dental implants are a replacement for the root of your missing tooth. Invented in Sweden, they have been a part of restorative dentistry for over 35 years! Dental implants are used to replace a single…

  • Baked Furikake “Fried” Chicken

    Perfect holiday party dish

    Baked Furikake Fried Chicken - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013Ingredients:

    • 4 lbs. assorted chicken pieces with bone & skin
    • 1-1/2 cups low fat buttermilk
    • 1 tsp. paprika, plus one more teaspoon
    • 2 tsp. seasoning salt (Lawry’s, if possible)
    • 1/2 tsp. black pepper
    • 3 cups panko crumbs
    • 1/4 cup furikake
    • Cooking spray

    Directions:

    In a wide shallow bowl or square baking dish, combine the buttermilk, paprika, seasoning salt and pepper. Trim off any extra fat from the chicken, then put into the dish with the buttermilk mixture, gently tossing to coat all sides of the chicken. Cover with plastic wrap and put into the refrigerator for about 1/2 hour, longer if you have time.

    Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine the panko, furikake and a teaspoon of paprika in a bowl and toss to combine. One by one, shake excess liquid from the chicken and immediately dredge in the panko. Place onto a baking sheet coated with cooking spray and repeat until all chicken is breaded. Spray all exposed sides of the chicken with cooking spray, then bake in the oven for
    30-40 minutes. Serves: 4-6. Time: 60 minutes


    Chef Michi founded ‘Cooking Fresh For You’. Her recipes center on healthy and flavor-packed dishes. Visit www.cookingfreshforyou.com or contact Michi at cookingfreshforyou@gmail.com or 808-286-6484. See her NEW concession take-out at Queen’s Physician’s Office Bldg.

    Perfect holiday party dish Ingredients: 4 lbs. assorted chicken pieces with bone & skin 1-1/2 cups low fat buttermilk 1 tsp. paprika, plus one more teaspoon 2 tsp. seasoning salt (Lawry’s, if possible) 1/2 tsp. black pepper 3 cups panko crumbs 1/4 cup furikake Cooking spray Directions: In a wide shallow bowl or square baking…

  • Message from the Editor – Dec / Jan 2013

    Happy Holidays to you and your families from Generations Magazine!

    From our first issue with Kirk Matthews in August 2010, Generations Magazine has been dedicated to Hawai‘i’s seniors and their families to provide resourceful and trusted information. We make every effort to provide articles that inform, inspire and motivate you to live a better quality of life.

    We are so thankful to all of our sponsors and business partners that support our magazine as they are the most trusted partners we could find. Please support these companies as well and thank them for their commitment to you, the senior.

    Percy Ihara and Diane Cadinha - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013
    Percy Ihara and Diane Cadinha

    In this issue, we feature and thank three active seniors—Joan Packer, Victor Hawthorne and Doris Hara with their personal trainer Diane Cadinha on their stories. If you remember, we featured Joan in a story in our April/May issue earlier this year. After I read the article, I had to meet this 91 year old youngster. She inspired so many of our readers, including me, to get off our butts to exercise. According to Doris, Joan’s story inspired her to do something about her health now since Joan didn’t start exercising until later in her life, so she said she wanted to do this also.

    As a procrastinator myself, I am now a believer in exercising and learning from a personal trainer to live a truly better quality of life to avoid health issues down the road. I have to thank personal trainer Diane Cadinha for working with me and teaching me the importance of exercise and also inspiring to put my health first and keep the body moving. If you want to avoid health issues, relieve stress and rejuvenate your body, call Diane or look for a personal trainer that specializes in working with seniors.

    In 2013, please keep Generations Magazine in front of you as we continue to bring wonderful articles on healthy and active aging, as well as stories about seniors in our community who motivate us all to live well in Hawai‘i. We always love to hear from our readers, so please continue to write, email or call us to let us know what you want to read about.

    Lastly, don’t forget to check us online at www.Generations808.com, as all our current and past issues are posted there, along with all past resource guides, and especially our most popular listing of “Senior Discounts.”

    Happy Holidays and always…Live well!

    Generations - 2014-12-01 - Editors Note - Image 01
    Percy Ihara, Editor/Publisher

    808-368-6747 | Percy@Generations808.com

    Happy Holidays to you and your families from Generations Magazine! From our first issue with Kirk Matthews in August 2010, Generations Magazine has been dedicated to Hawai‘i’s seniors and their families to provide resourceful and trusted information. We make every effort to provide articles that inform, inspire and motivate you to live a better quality of life. We…

  • For Our Love of the Game

    In the months of September and October, thousands of local people go to the 9th island, Las Vegas, to try their luck in the casinos. But each year more and more baby boomer men go there to test their skills in winning the softball title and a championship ring.

    Softball - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013 For the last several years, the Family Stones softball team from Honolulu, of which I am a player and member, has tried their luck at just that — being the champions of the Las Vegas Senior Softball Championships. Due to the increased popularity of senior softball, in this year the Las Vegas Senior Softball Championships. Due to the increased popularity of senior softball, in this year the Las Vegas Senior Softball Association (LVSSA) teamed up with the Senior Softball-USA (SSUSA) to hold the first annual Senior Softball World Championships. This year’s historic event created the largest tournament in the history of senior softball: combining over 450 teams in seven age brackets with nearly 5,000 players nationwide and Guam. The future of senior softball is growing for these baby boomers and older, from all over the world, and hopefully, you will see teams soon from Asia, Australia and South America.

    This year’s Family Stones’ 50-year-old team entered the largest division in the tournament of 49 teams from 17 states. In the previous week, the 55 and 60 age groups played for the world championship and there were 4 teams from Hawai‘i that entered. However, they didn’t fare too well, winning only two games and losing 20.

    When our 50’s team heard this news, we knew we were in for a battle of our softball careers, since we had four players over the age of 55 and three players in their 60’s. Over a three-day period to win the title in this double elimination tournament, we would have to win eight games in a row; and if we lost a game, we may have to play up to 14 games.

    On the first two days of the tournament, our Stones’ team played well, winning six games and were only one of two teams undefeated while going into the final day of the tournament. In each game we were going up against bigger players, and definitely experienced and better too. Being the smaller team, it was a battle and a fight to win each game. Team captains Rudy Cagulada and Johnny Arroyo, Jr. reminded us to play as a team and keep our heads up if we make mistakes or don’t get a hit. They also reminded us that we were playing for two men who founded Family Stones some 40 years ago, Ben Naki and Bully Mactagone.

    Softball 2 - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013Entering the final day as one of only two undefeated teams, we faced a tough New Mexico team. We knew if we lost, we would have to play this same team again since this was a double elimination tournament.

    From the first inning, our team fell behind as New Mexico went out to a huge lead, 8-1. Whether it was physical fatigue from playing seven games in three days or just nervousness, our team did not play well; and it looked like we were going to lose. By the final inning, things didn’t start out so good with the first two Stones’ batters getting out on two hard hits by Felix Mediola and Isaac Hatori. At this point, if you are a baseball fan or a Vegas gambler, you wouldn’t be betting on the losing team. Being down by four runs, two outs and no one on base, it seemed like it would take a miracle, at best, along with the baseball-God blessing the Stones’ team. “Fat chance,” said the New Mexico team, already planning to play us again for their world championship title.

    Then, the Family Stones’ men suddenly woke up and hit two back-to-back singles and big Tom McCarthy hit a towering home run to centerfield to bring us within a run to tie and two runs to win the championship and title. The next two hitters and I came up with hits to set the stage with the bases loaded. Up next to bat, Joey Rodrigues comes up and singles to left field to bring in the tying and winning run with a furious slide at home plate by Fabian Loo. The whole field of Stones’ men and fans erupted as they finally won the title and World Championship! Players jumped up and down like we won the Little League World Series, hugging each other, and yes, some crying, including myself, saying, “We finally did it for Ben!”

    Percy playing softball - Generations Magazine - February-March 2013Congratulations to our entire Family Stones’ team and fans for working and playing towards our goal for the championship and the ring. Kudos also go out to MVP Craig Ayala and all tournament players, Tom McCarthy, Johnny Arroy, Jr, Joey Rodrigues and Cris Ray. Yours truly won honorable mention from the Family Stones’ team.

    On a final note at this year’s tournament, Hawai‘i should be proud as one of our own, Danny Ayala of Hilo was inducted into the Senior Softball Hall of Fame. As well as, a winner of several championship rings himself, is the father of Family Stones’ MVP shortstop, Craig Ayala. Danny was at each of his son’s games and I can still hear him yelling to me as I was ready to bat, “Take the first pitch!” I thank you Danny for all your inspirational and positive messages to all of us on the team. We finally did it for Ben…and for our love of the game.

    In the months of September and October, thousands of local people go to the 9th island, Las Vegas, to try their luck in the casinos. But each year more and more baby boomer men go there to test their skills in winning the softball title and a championship ring. For the last several years, the…

  • Tax Planning & Preparation

    Our tax system for the most part remains firmly based upon the calendar year. At year-end, it’s time to take a snapshot of your income, deductions and credits. Based on that data, your tax liability for the year can be computed. If year-end strategies are implemented before your tax liability is “set in stone” it can make a significant difference in what you owe for the tax year. Tax planning for year-end 2011 should use traditional year-end strategies as well as those that react to situations unique to this year.

    Income/Deduction Shifting

    The traditional year-end strategy of income shifting applies to 2011, but with an extra twist. Under traditional strategy, you time your income and deductions so that your taxable income is about even for 2011 and 2012 so your tax bracket does not spike in either year. If you anticipate a higher tax bracket for 2012, you may want to accelerate income into 2011 and defer deductions into 2012. If you anticipate a leaner 2012, income might be delayed through deferred compensation arrangements, postponing year-end bonuses, maximizing deductible retirement contributions and delaying year-end billings.

    The twist for year-end 2011 is the uncertain future for the tax rates after 2012. Many political observers forecast that higher-income taxpayers will be asked to pay more, either through higher tax rates or more limited deductions. That may suggest a strategy in which income is not defer-red but is recognized now at lower tax rates still available in 2011 and 2012.

    Roth Conversions

    If you converted an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) to a Roth IRA in 2010, you were given an option - recognize all income in 2010 or defer that income, half into 2011 and half into 2012. If you elected to defer that income into 2011 and 2012, do not forget to figure that income into your year-end planning.

    Life Changes

    Marriage, divorce, the birth of a child, death, a change in job or loss of a job, and retirement are just some of the life events that trigger a special urgency for year-end tax planning. After December 31, 2011, it will be too late to alter most of your bottom-line tax liability for 2011.

    Tax Extenders

    A number of tax extenders are scheduled to expire after December 31, 2011. They include:

    • the state and local sales tax deduction
    • the higher education tuition
    • the teacher’s classroom expense deduction

    Seniors age 70 ½ and older should also consider making a charitable contribution directly from their IRAs up to $100,000 and paying no tax on the distribution. This tax break, especially advantageous to those who do not itemize deductions, is scheduled to end for distributions made in tax years beginning after December 31, 2011.


    For more information, call Tamilyn Masuda at 847-4422 or visit www.masudacpa.com.

    Our tax system for the most part remains firmly based upon the calendar year. At year-end, it’s time to take a snapshot of your income, deductions and credits. Based on that data, your tax liability for the year can be computed. If year-end strategies are implemented before your tax liability is “set in stone” it…

  • What is a Case Manager?

    Most travelers will tell you that having a guide when exploring new places can be very helpful. A case manager can be that guide as we begin to explore the options available to us as we age.

    Case management is a holistic, comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the planning and delivery of care and services to meet the needs of individuals in a cost-effective manner.

    Currently in Hawai‘i, there are no regulations or licensure regarding case managers. Social workers provide case management under their licensure’s scope of service. Social workers, nurses and others can be certified through a number of certifying organizations such as the Commission for Case Manager Certification®, the American Case Management Association, Case Management Society of America and the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

    Case management incorporates assessment; identification of needs; care and service plan development; advocacy; coordination and provision of necessary services; and referral linkages. The process includes monitoring, evaluating and documenting care and services. Participation by and education of the individual and/or representative is central to the provision of individualized case management services.

    Some case managers focus on a particular population such as mental health or dialysis, while others are more general. Case managers can work alone or as part of an organization. Some provide only short term services. This is usually determined by the service plan and the client is discharged upon completion of the plan.

    Other case managers provide ongoing case management. They are available as needed over a long period of time, often monitoring for potential problems or providing a safety net should a crisis arise. It is important to ask questions in order to be sure you are working with someone who can assist you.

    It is important that you find a case manager that shares your philosophy and needs. The assessment and service plan are the most important tools a case manager uses. The assessment helps identify resources and needs so that together the case manager and individual can develop the map to explore the options available. Together, the exploration of this new territory can be less
    confusing and more positive.

    Some questions include:

    • How many years have you been providing case management services?
    • What is your certification or training? Are you licensed in your profession?
    • Do you belong to any professional organizations?
    • Are references available upon request?
    • Tell me about the process you follow.
    • Do you provide ongoing case management or are your services time limited?
    • Are you knowledgeable about dementia and associated care needs?
    • What is your philosophy on aging in place or need for placement?
    • Are you available for emergencies? Can I reach you easily?
    • How much do you charge for services? Will you provide me with a detailed list of charges?

    Most travelers will tell you that having a guide when exploring new places can be very helpful. A case manager can be that guide as we begin to explore the options available to us as we age. Case management is a holistic, comprehensive, multi-disciplinary approach to the planning and delivery of care and services to…

  • Good News for Homeowners

    The City & County of Honolulu offers a home rehabilitation loan program to owner-occupant homeowners on Oahu, whose incomes do not exceed 80% of the area median income. The loans can be used to repair and correct deteriorated and hazardous conditions on the property, such as damage caused by termites, leaky roof, faulty electrical wiring and plumbing. Loans may cover accessibility improvements to assist family members with disabilities and the installation of solar water heating and photovoltaic electric generation systems.

    The City is aware many homeowners are unfamiliar with monitoring construction and therefore assists its clients by having inspectors oversee the project to ensure the work meets industry standard levels of quality and workmanship. All work on the project must be performed by a licensed contractor selected by the homeowner.

    The loan limit is $75,000; however, loans over $75,000 will be considered on a case-by-case basis. The loan amount will also be subject to the available equity value in the property. Loans are currently offered with a zero percent interest rate and are based on a 15 or 20 year maturity. The City is able to taylor repayments to fit homeowners with a limited budget with a larger final \payment due at the end of the loan term. Qualified homeowner’s income levels are:

    Household Member(s) / 2012 Income Limit

    • 1 / 57700
    • 2 / 65950
    • 3 / 74200
    • 4 / 82400

    For information and an application, homeowners may call the Kapolei office at 808-768-3240 or the Honolulu office at 808-768-7076.

    The City & County of Honolulu offers a home rehabilitation loan program to owner-occupant homeowners on Oahu, whose incomes do not exceed 80% of the area median income. The loans can be used to repair and correct deteriorated and hazardous conditions on the property, such as damage caused by termites, leaky roof, faulty electrical wiring…

  • Social Security: Report Your Name Change

    If you need to change your name due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, you will want to report the change to Social Security.

    There are several reasons to report the change. One, is that the IRS and Social Security match computer records. If your name on your Social Security number and tax return do not match, it could delay the processing of your return as well as any tax refund you might be due.

    It is important to make sure your Social Security records are up-to-date because your potential benefits are based almost entirely on the earnings maintained for you. If your employer reports earnings to the government under your new name, and your record still shows your old name, those earnings may not get credited to your Social Security earnings record. Missing earnings can lead to lower future Social Security benefits.

    To change your name in Social Security’s records, you must apply for a new Social Security card. To apply, go to www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber/ and print out the form “Application Form SS-5”. That’s also the form you need if you want to apply for a replacement card. It also tells you what evidence you will need to submit.

    Mail or take in your completed form to your local Social Security office with proper documentation. They must be originals or certified copies that clearly identifies you with your date and place of birth. The application includes information on what types of identity and documentation are needed for specific cases, and what sorts of documents can be accepted.

    The application process is easy and is well described, along with other related information, at www.socialsecurity.gov/ssnumber.

    Social Security Administration - Generations Magazine - June-July 2013

    If you need to change your name due to marriage, divorce, or any other reason, you will want to report the change to Social Security. There are several reasons to report the change. One, is that the IRS and Social Security match computer records. If your name on your Social Security number and tax return…

  • New Data on Asbestos Exposure

    A new data analysis indicates that the potential for asbestos exposure in Hawai‘i and the U.S. Pacific Islands could be significantly higher than previously thought. The finding is serious as the latency period between exposure and disease with asbestos can be up to 50 years or more.

    Shipbuilding and repair facilities located in the islands are one reason for the heightened risk. Prior to the mid-1970s, asbestos was heavily used in the maintenance and repair of ships. Pearl Harbor, Guam and the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands all had active military ports. Military and civilian workers at these sites were likely exposed to asbestos.

    In addition, many asbestos-containing materials were used to construct military and civilian buildings in the 20th century. As these buildings begin to deteriorate, need repair or are destroyed, they can continue to cause asbestos exposure.

    Asbestos exposure is the cause of mesothelioma, a rare cancer caused by the inhalation asbestos fibers. Mesothelioma victims typically do not begin to show symptoms of the disease until 10 to 40 years after the initial exposure. Most people diagnosed with mesothelioma are in their 50’s, 60’s or older and only start to show symptoms in the later stages of the disease.

    Sadly, there is no cure.

    This latency period creates information gaps regarding asbestos exposure and disease, especially in areas like the U.S. Pacific islands. The missing data is why professionals conclude that the actual prevalence of asbestos diseases is underestimated.

    The Galiher Law Firm has been representing victims of mesothelioma in Hawai‘i for over 30 years. For information, visit GaliherLaw.com.

    A new data analysis indicates that the potential for asbestos exposure in Hawai‘i and the U.S. Pacific Islands could be significantly higher than previously thought. The finding is serious as the latency period between exposure and disease with asbestos can be up to 50 years or more. Shipbuilding and repair facilities located in the islands…