By Mark G. Zellmer of Husch Blackwell LLP

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The linear no threshold model of carcinogenesis (“LNT”) lacks any scientific validity, whether applied to carcinogens generally, or to asbestos specifically. From its conception in the 1920s, scientists have raised legitimate questions about the scientific validity of the model. Despite such questions, both the EPA and OSHA have based risk assessment on the LNT hypothesis since the 1970s. LNT is the basis for claims that no carcinogen, including asbestos, has a safe dose at which cancer will not occur. The theory is also used …