Reading, Pennsylvania

Situated in southeastern Pennsylvania, Reading is a city in and the county seat of Berks County, and the principal city of the Greater Reading Area. With a population of more than 88,000, Reading is the fifth most populated city in Pennsylvania and the sixth most-populous municipality. The city is bounded on the west by the Schuylkill River, on the east by Mount Penn, and on the south by Neversink Mountain. The city lent its name to the now-defunct Reading Railroad, which carried anthracite coal from the Pennsylvania Coal Region to cities along the Schuylkill River. Reading was one of the first cities where outlet shopping became a tourist industry. Reading's symbol is a Japanese-style pagoda, which is located on Mount Penn, visible from nearly everywhere in town.

The construction of the railroad in the 1800s was probably the single greatest factor in the development of Reading. Eventually, the declining coal shipping revenues and strict government regulations would force the Reading Company to file for bankruptcy in 1971 and sell its interests to the newly formed Consolidated Railroad Corporation (Conrail) in 1976. During the early 1900s, the city experienced a burgeoning automobile industry. The city’s growth continued through the 1930s. From the 1940s to the 1970s, however, the city witnessed a drastic decline in prosperity, generally due to the demise of the heavy industry and railroads, and a general movement toward the suburbs. Today, agriculture is a major industry for Reading as well as other cities in Berks County.

Over the years, asbestos containing products were commonly used in industrial and manufacturing sites such as those found in Reading, Pennsylvania. Individuals who worked with and/or around asbestos may be at risk to developing mesothelioma, a potentially terminal cancer. We provide information about mesothelioma treatment options in and around Reading at the bottom of this page. If you were diagnosed with mesothelioma in Reading, you may benefit from seeking the advice of a mesothelioma lawyer.

Jobsites in Reading where Asbestos Exposure Occurred

A number of jobsites in Reading, PA have been identified as harboring asbestos containing materials. These sites, at one point in their history, were known to have exposed a variety of tradesmen to asbestos. We will be documenting in more detail how asbestos exposure occurred at these sites in the future on this web site.

Mesothelioma Cancer Centers Near Reading, PA

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma cancer centers that are located within a 100 mile radius of Reading, PA. Please click on a cancer center link to obtain more information about the clinical programs offered, professional designations, areas of expertise and how to contact the center.

Mesothelioma Doctors Near Reading, PA

For your convenience we have compiled a list of mesothelioma doctors who are located within a 100 mile radius of Reading, PA. Please click on a doctor link to obtain more information about his/her background, areas of expertise, professional affiliations and office locations.