Could Asbestos Be Lurking in Your Home?
Could Asbestos Be Lurking in Your Home?
Asbestos, a mineral known for its durability and heat resistance, was previously used in construction materials. Despite its usefulness, asbestos has been found to cause serious health problems over time when inhaled. These health issues include mesothelioma, an aggressive and rare cancer that affects the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, or heart. Lung cancer can also be caused by inhaling asbestos fibres that become trapped in the lungs. Additionally, asbestosis, a chronic lung disease that causes breathing difficulties and scarring of the lungs, can also occur. To avoid asbestos exposure, taking necessary precautions and seeking medical attention if it is suspected is vital.
What is asbestos?
Six naturally occurring minerals known as asbestos are found in rock and soil. These minerals are resistant to heat, fire, and chemicals, which made them famous for use in a variety of products, including:
- Insulation in homes and buildings
- Brake linings
- Gaskets
- Roofing materials
- Ceiling tiles
- Paints and coatings
- Textiles
How can I be exposed to asbestos?
Asbestos exposure can occur when asbestos-containing materials are disturbed or damaged, releasing asbestos fibres into the air. These fibres can then be inhaled or ingested.
Individuals who face the highest risk of coming in contact with asbestos include:
- Workers in the construction, demolition, and renovation industries
- People who live in or work in older buildings that contain asbestos
- Veterans who served in the military before the 1980s, when asbestos was used extensively in ships and other military equipment
What are the health risks of asbestos exposure?
Asbestos exposure can cause many serious health problems, including:
- Mesothelioma: Mesothelioma is a type of cancer affecting the heart, lungs, or abdomen. Asbestos exposure is the leading cause of a particularly aggressive type of cancer that is relatively uncommon. This form of cancer is known for being extremely malignant.
- Lung cancer: The most common cancer in the world, and asbestos exposure is a known risk factor for lung cancer.
- Asbestosis: A medical condition that affects the lungs, causing inflammation and scarring. This condition can make breathing a challenging task and may even lead to respiratory failure.
Other health problems that may be linked to asbestos exposure include:
- Gastrointestinal cancer
- Laryngeal cancer
- Ovarian cancer
How can I prevent asbestos exposure?
If you are concerned about asbestos exposure, there are many things you can do to protect yourself:
- Avoid disturbing asbestos-containing materials.
- If you must work with asbestos-containing materials, take precautions to protect yourself, such as wearing a respirator and wetting the materials to prevent dust from becoming airborne.
- If you suspect there might be asbestos in your home or workplace, it's crucial to take action immediately. Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health issues and is not something to take lightly. To ensure your safety and peace of mind, it's highly recommended that you seek the help of a trained professional to handle the removal process. Don't put your health at risk - call in the experts and rest easy knowing that the job is being done safely and thoroughly.
What if I have been exposed to asbestos?
It is vital to make an appointment with a doctor and get screened for health issues if you have had contact with asbestos. Although there is no remedy for mesothelioma or asbestosis, catching it early and receiving treatment can increase your chances of survival.
Additional resources
- The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) website has a wealth of information about asbestos, including identifying asbestos-containing materials and protecting yourself from exposure.
- The National Cancer Institute (NCI) website details the health hazards related to asbestos exposure and methods for screening for diseases caused by exposure to asbestos.
- The Mesothelioma Center website provides information and support for people diagnosed with mesothelioma.