Asbestos, used in the manufacturing of various types of building products, is a mineral known for its thin fibers. The fibers can easily become airborne, where they pose significant hazards, warns the National Institutes of Health. Know the facts regarding asbestos health risks, prevalence of the problem and other statistics to better understand the problem and protect yourself and your loved ones.
Exposure
You may be exposed to asbestos through various methods and situations. Because asbestos is naturally occurring and was once widely used throughout the United States, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' National Toxicology Program warns that everyone has been exposed to asbestos. Dangerous levels of asbestos typically occur in old buildings containing asbestos-based insulation, buildings where asbestos was not properly cleaned out and removed, and as a result of the degradation of vehicle brake linings.
Health Risks
When asbestos fibers go airborne, you may breathe them in, and they may become lodged in your lungs, where they can build up over time. After years of fiber accumulation, your lungs may become scarred and inflamed, leading to various respiratory illnesses. The National Cancer Institute warns that asbestos is a known human carcinogen, increasing various kinds of cancer, including mesothelioma and cancers of the lungs, gallbladder, esophagus, throat and kidneys.
Symptoms
Preliminary symptoms of lung damage from asbestos include various levels of chest pain, chronic coughing and shortness of breath, reports the Mayo Clinic doctors. If your doctor suspects asbestos-related problems, you may be given a physical, lung tests and other examinations to help identify asbestos in your lungs, according to the National Cancer Institute.
Prevention
Asbestos is widely found in old building material like cement, roof coatings, floor tiles, insulation and fire proofing, reports the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. If you suspect that you have asbestos-containing material in your home, the agency warns against touching it, as this may disturb it and cause its fibers to become airborne. Only testing by an accredited asbestos laboratory can ascertain the risk level correctly. Find the nearest accredited lab by calling the National Voluntary Laboratory Accreditation Program at 301-975-4016, according to the agency.
Treatment
Treatment for asbestos-related health problems varies according to the specific health issue you're facing. The Mayo Clinic says your doctor may prescribe pain killers and other medical treatments to alleviate your symptoms and suggests that progression of the disease will likely cease after you're no longer exposed to asbestos.
Member Comments