Asbestos Risks

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring minerals that have fibrous properties. In the past, it was widely used in various building supplies and consumer products. However, research has shown that asbestos fibers can cause severe respiratory issues and even cancer. When old and brittle asbestos products deteriorate, they release tiny fibers that can remain suspended in the air and enter the lungs when inhaled. These airborne fibers are odorless and tasteless. Due to the numerous health risks associated with asbestos, the United States federal government has banned its use in certain products, although it can still be found in others.

Sources of Asbestos

Indoor sources of airborne asbestos include deteriorating, damaged, or disturbed products such as insulation, fireproofing, acoustical materials, and floor tiles. When these materials are disturbed, the tiny fibers break off and become suspended in the air. These fibers can remain airborne for extended periods before settling in dust. Individuals who work with or around asbestos, such as miners, asbestos abatement workers, custodial and maintenance workers, and insulation workers, face a higher risk of exposure. If proper safety precautions, such as wearing masks and protective coverings, are not taken, these workers may unknowingly carry asbestos fibers to their homes and expose their families.

Health Impacts of Asbestos

Inhaling asbestos fibers can lead to cancer. The risk of developing lung cancer and mesothelioma, a deadly cancer affecting the thin lining around the lungs and other organs, increases with asbestos exposure. The level of risk depends on the amount inhaled, the duration of exposure, and whether the individual smokes or not. Smoking cigarettes, in combination with asbestos inhalation, further elevates the likelihood of developing lung cancer. When asbestos fibers are inhaled, they enter the air passages. The body's natural defenses remove most of these particles, but some may bypass these defenses and become lodged deep within the lungs. These fibers can remain there for a long time, potentially causing harm years after exposure. Prolonged exposure to high concentrations of airborne asbestos can also lead to non-cancerous lung and chest problems, including a condition called asbestosis, which scars lung tissue and impairs breathing. While most people exposed to moderate levels of asbestos are unlikely to develop these serious diseases, it is crucial to be aware of the risks.

Protecting Yourself from Asbestos

If you suspect or know that there is asbestos in your home or workplace, it is best to leave the material undisturbed as much as possible. As long as the asbestos-containing material is in good condition and not disturbed, the risk of exposure is minimal. Airborne fibers are unlikely to be released unless the materials are cut, ripped, or sanded. If you need to remodel your home or remove/clean up asbestos, it is essential to hire a trained professional. If the material is damaged and you suspect it may contain asbestos, limit access to the area and avoid taking samples yourself, as this can cause more harm. Consult with a trained professional who can provide guidance. In some cases, sealing or covering the exposed material may be a better option than removal.