Asbestos Expert

Asbestos, a group of minerals known for their resistance to chemicals and heat, finds its application in various construction materials such as roof shingles, insulation, and automotive parts. Unfortunately, exposure to asbestos can lead to the development of mesothelioma, a highly fatal cancer with no known cure. Inhalation or ingestion of asbestos fibers is the primary cause of exposure. Once these fibers enter the body, they affect the mesothelium tissues, a thin layer covering internal organs. The type of mesothelioma one develops depends on the location of the cancer. The most common type is Pleural Malignant Mesothelioma, affecting the lungs. Another type, Peritoneal Mesothelioma, affects the abdominal tissues and can also occur near the testicles and heart. Each type of mesothelioma presents different symptoms. Pleural Mesothelioma symptoms include chest lumps, difficulty breathing, weight loss, and chest pain during coughing. Peritoneal Mesothelioma symptoms include weight loss, abdominal lumps, and pain and swelling in the abdominal area. Pericardial Mesothelioma causes chest pain and breathing difficulties, while Mesothelioma of the testicles leads to swelling or the presence of a mass in the testicles. If any of these symptoms occur, it is crucial to consult a doctor and seek legal advice from an asbestos lawyer to understand the available legal options. Asbestos lawyers possess extensive knowledge and experience in medical malpractice, personal injury, and product liability laws, making them essential in pursuing legal action against the responsible companies. Airborne asbestos fibers, particularly during insulation removal or mining activities, pose a significant health risk when inhaled. These fibers can become lodged in the stomach or lungs, causing immediate coughing to expel some fibers, but most settle and eventually develop into mesothelioma. In addition to mesothelioma, asbestos exposure can also lead to asbestosis, a severe lung disease that is not cancerous. Inhaling asbestos fibers damages lung tissues, resulting in scarring, difficulty breathing, and reduced oxygen intake into the bloodstream. Symptoms of asbestosis include a dry sound in the lungs upon inhalation and shortness of breath. Individuals working in mining, construction, or auto repair industries face a higher risk of asbestos exposure. Unfortunately, asbestosis may not always be treatable on a permanent basis.

Home Mortgage

Prior knowledge and information about home mortgages is crucial before diving into this financial commitment. Unlike previous loans, a home mortgage should not be taken lightly or mishandled. The current high rate of foreclosures serves as a warning against entering into a home mortgage without proper understanding.

When renting a property, the responsibility for repairs and maintenance lies with the property manager. However, as a homeowner, you will now be accountable for any damages that occur on your property. The location of the home you wish to purchase will also impact the fees involved, especially if it is situated in an upscale community surrounded by mansions or condos.

Before making a decision, it is essential to evaluate whether buying a home is financially viable. Factors such as interest rates, closing costs, and other expenses can significantly increase the overall amount. If the mortgage becomes too burdensome, any future setbacks may make it difficult to afford. The high number of home foreclosures in recent years is evidence of this.

To navigate the financial aspects of a home mortgage, consider the following finance tips:

1. Large Down Payment: Opt for a substantial down payment, exceeding the minimum requirement. This will result in a lower interest rate and mortgage, making monthly payments more manageable. Conversely, a low down payment will provide minimal equity and lead to higher interest rates, potentially putting you in a precarious financial situation if unexpected circumstances arise.

2. Additional Debt Consideration: Remember that a home mortgage adds to your existing bills, such as utilities, car payments, phone bills, health insurance, and car insurance. Assessing your ability to afford this additional financial burden is crucial.

3. Credit Score: Your credit score plays a significant role in determining the interest rate you will receive when applying for a loan. Maintaining a good credit score before purchasing a home is essential. Timely mortgage payments will also help avoid the risk of foreclosure. Setting up automatic bill payments through your bank account ensures timely payments as long as sufficient funds are available.

4. Refinancing: Refinancing should only be considered if it results in lower interest rates compared to your previous mortgage. Instead, focus on paying off your mortgage debt as quickly as possible. Consider obtaining a smaller loan amount that can be repaid within 20 years. If there are no prepayment penalties, make additional payments whenever possible.

Many young adults and teenagers dream of attending college, getting married, and buying a home. However, they often underestimate the amount of debt they will accumulate. Research shows that the average college graduate carries over $26,000 in student loan debt. Adding a mortgage to this burden can worsen their financial situation. Understanding the costs associated with homeownership is crucial to avoid excessive debt.

Mortgage interest rates currently average around 4.4 percent for a 30-year fixed-rate mortgage. Homeowners must also consider property taxes, homeowner's insurance costs, and the required down payment. Additionally, many mortgage companies may require mortgage insurance.

In conclusion, acquiring knowledge and information about home mortgages is essential before embarking on this financial journey. Understanding the potential risks and costs associated with homeownership will help you make informed decisions and avoid falling into excessive debt.

Auto Insurance

When applying for auto insurance, your personal history is divided into two distinct categories by the insurance company in order to assess your driving capabilities. The first category comprises factors that you can influence, such as marital status, occupation, credit score (which they will check if you don't know it), and whether you rent or own your home. If you have a clean driving record and meet certain criteria like being married, having a high credit score, long-term employment, and homeownership, you are likely to receive a low and affordable insurance quote. 

The second category focuses on age and gender. Unfortunately, customers under the age of 25 are considered high-risk due to statistics showing that young people tend to drive carelessly and recklessly. However, it is worth noting that this age bracket extends up to 25, even though individuals aged 22 to 25 may not exhibit the same level of recklessness as teenagers. Additionally, there has been a discrepancy in rates between males and females in recent years, with studies indicating that males generally pay more for auto insurance. The reasons behind this disparity remain a question that many males are eager to have answered. 

When the insurance company asks about your residence and workplace, it is to determine where you typically park your car. This information helps assess the risk of theft or break-ins based on the crime rate in your area. If you live in a high-crime area, your insurance rate may increase slightly to account for the higher likelihood of filing a claim due to theft or vandalism. On the other hand, if you have a garage or live in a secure community with off-street parking, the risk of theft or damage decreases, resulting in lower insurance rates. 

Numerous factors contribute to determining your auto insurance rate, including the type of car you drive, your driving record, personal information, and parking habits. Additional factors include the coverage you choose and your deductibles. Furthermore, if you have a history of driving under the influence, expect your insurance rates to rise. The make, model, and year of your vehicle also play a role, as some cars are more expensive to insure or are targeted by thieves more frequently, making them higher-risk. Cars with superior safety features and protection for passengers generally have lower insurance rates. Repair costs can also impact your rates, as some vehicles have pricier parts. Moreover, owning a high-horsepower car may increase your insurance rates, as it is perceived as a higher risk for accidents. 

Having previous car accidents, regardless of fault, will likely result in higher insurance rates. Similarly, moving violations indicate a higher risk of accidents and can lead to increased rates, as they suggest a reckless driving pattern. If you have none of these factors on your record, you can expect lower insurance rates compared to individuals who do. To validate this, ask someone with these factors about their insurance rate, and they will likely tell you it is significantly higher.

Asbestos Details

What is Asbestos? Asbestos refers to a group of naturally-occurring fibrous minerals, consisting of six different types. A "fibre" is defined as a particle that is longer than 5 micrometres (μm) and has a length to width ratio of at least 3:1.

Regulations: Canadian regulations also specify that asbestos fibres must be less than 3 μm wide.

Details:

Based on their physical and chemical properties, asbestos can be classified into two major groups: serpentine and amphibole.

Serpentine: Serpentine fibres are long, flexible, and curved. These fibres can be woven together. The main type of serpentine asbestos is chrysotile (white asbestos), which is commonly used in manufacturing.

Amphibole: Amphibole fibres are straight and stiff. These fibres are generally brittle and have a rod- or needle-like shape, limiting their commercial usefulness. There are five sub-types of amphibole asbestos, including crocidolite (blue asbestos), amosite (brown asbestos), actinolite, anthophyllite, and tremolite.

What is covered in this document?

This document is part of a series of documents on asbestos, including:

Asbestos - What is it?

Asbestos - Health Effects

Asbestos - Control Strategies for Workplaces

Asbestos - In the Home

Where is asbestos found in Canada?

Asbestos is found in large natural deposits or as contaminants in other minerals. For example, tremolite asbestos can be found in deposits of chrysotile, vermiculite, and talc. Historically, a significant portion of the world's asbestos production was concentrated in southern Quebec, known as the "Serpentine Belt."

Where was asbestos used?

Asbestos was widely used in various manufactured products due to its heat-resistant and insulating properties. Before 1990, it was commonly used for insulating buildings, fireproofing, and noise reduction. Industries, construction, and commercial sectors used asbestos in products such as building materials, friction materials, industrial furnaces, textiles, insulation, and more.

Why was asbestos used in so many products?

Asbestos possesses properties that make it resistant to heat, fire, chemicals, and biological breakdown. It does not dissolve in water or evaporate. These properties, along with its wear and friction characteristics, tensile strength, and insulation capabilities, made asbestos commercially desirable for a wide range of products.

What are the concerns about asbestos?

Asbestos is a friable material, meaning it can crumble, pulverize, and release small fibres and dust into the air when dry. Inhalation of asbestos fibres during manufacturing or use poses significant health risks. Long-term exposure to asbestos has been linked to diseases such as asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. However, if materials containing asbestos are tightly bound, in good condition, sealed, isolated, or left undisturbed, the health risks are minimal.

Where is asbestos banned?

Asbestos has been entirely banned in 39 countries since 1983, including the European Union, Argentina, Australia, Chile, Croatia, and Saudi Arabia. Other countries have imposed severe restrictions or are phasing out its use. In the United States, all new uses of asbestos were banned in 1989, and Canada announced a commitment to ban asbestos and asbestos-containing products by 2018.

What are the international hazard ratings for asbestos?

In Canadian workplaces, asbestos is classified under the WHMIS 1988 as "D2A - Poisonous and infectious material - Other effects - Very toxic." It is also classified as carcinogenic by organizations such as the International Association for Research on Cancer (IARC), American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH), US National Toxicology Program (NTP), and the European Union (EU).

Asbestos Dangers

The Awareness of Asbestos and Its Hazards

The dangers of asbestos are now widely recognized, but this was not always the case. One of the potential health risks associated with asbestos exposure is mesothelioma, a rare and deadly form of cancer. While asbestos use is restricted in the United States today, it is not completely banned and can still be found in many older buildings and ships.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a group of minerals, although many people often refer to it as a single mineral. This group includes six different fibrous substances: amosite, chrysotile, crocidolite, tremolite, actinolite, and anthophyllite. These silicate-based substances are made of silicon and oxygen and consist of bundles of long, thin fibers that can be easily separated.

Asbestos has been mined for centuries and has been used for various purposes. It is known for its strength, sound absorption, heat and fire resistance, electrical resistance, and resistance to corrosive chemicals. Additionally, asbestos is abundant and inexpensive. While asbestos has been used for thousands of years, its widespread mining and use did not reach its peak until the 1800s.

Different Types of Asbestos

Chrysotile asbestos, also known as "white asbestos," has long curly fibers and is commonly used in construction. Other asbestos minerals have shorter, needle-like fibers. Crocidolite, known as "blue asbestos," is the most dangerous type due to its fine and sharp fibers. It has been used in tiles, insulation, cement, and other materials, particularly on ships. Amosite, referred to as "brown asbestos," is also considered more harmful than chrysotile due to its small, sharp fibers. Approximately 5% of asbestos used in construction in the U.S. is brown asbestos.

Asbestos can also be classified as friable or non-friable, depending on how it is used. Friable asbestos can easily crumble, releasing dangerous fibers into the air. Non-friable asbestos is well encapsulated and less likely to become airborne, making it safer.

The History of Asbestos in the United States

Asbestos has been used in the United States since the late 1800s, particularly during the Industrial Revolution when there was a boom in its use in construction and shipbuilding. It was mixed into cement for added strength, used in insulation and fireproofing materials, and extensively applied on ships for insulation and sound absorption.

Today, asbestos can still be found in old ceiling tiles, floor tiles, glues, plastics, vermiculite gardening products, paints, coatings, brake shoes, clutch pads, and various construction materials. In the 1970s, the use of asbestos was restricted in the United States, and several federal agencies have since banned or restricted its use. However, complete bans have been overturned, and certain asbestos-containing materials are still in use.

The Use of Asbestos Today

While many industrialized countries have completely banned asbestos, the United States has limited its use to certain products. These include cement pipes, gaskets, roof coatings, drum brake linings, disk brake pads, components in automatic transmissions, mill board, vinyl floor tiles, fireproof clothing, corrugated cement sheets, roofing felt, and more.

Exposure to Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos occurs when its fibers become airborne and are inhaled or ingested. The tiny fibers can become dust and settle on surfaces, posing a risk to anyone in the vicinity. Materials containing asbestos must have the fibers well encapsulated to prevent them from becoming friable. However, if these materials are damaged, asbestos can be released into the air, leading to exposure.

The main danger of asbestos exposure is the fibers becoming lodged in body tissue, causing long-term damage, inflammation, and potentially serious health conditions that may manifest years after initial exposure. The lungs are particularly susceptible to fiber lodging, resulting in respiratory illnesses and cancers.

All types of asbestos are known human carcinogens, increasing the risk of developing lung cancer and mesothelioma, a rare and aggressive cancer. Exposure to asbestos may also elevate the risk of other cancers, including gastrointestinal, colorectal, throat, kidney, gallbladder, and esophageal cancers.

Understanding Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that affects the thin tissue layers surrounding organs, known as the mesothelium. The most common type affects the lining around the lungs, called the pleura, but it can also occur in the abdomen, around the heart, and in the testicles. Asbestos exposure is the primary risk factor for mesothelioma, although not everyone exposed will develop the disease. Unfortunately, mesothelioma is often diagnosed in its later stages, making it difficult to treat and often resulting in a poor prognosis.

Asbestosis and Other Factors

Asbestosis is a progressive disease caused by asbestos exposure, leading to scarring of lung tissue. It can cause breathing difficulties, chronic cough, chest tightness, and pain. Asbestosis scarring cannot be reversed or healed and tends to worsen over time. However, certain treatments can provide temporary relief from symptoms and improve breathing.

In addition to asbestos exposure, other factors can increase the risk of asbestos-related illnesses. Smoking tobacco significantly raises the risk of developing lung cancer. The dose and duration of asbestos exposure are also important factors, with higher amounts and longer exposure periods increasing the risk. The different types of asbestos, with blue and brown being more dangerous than white, also play a role. Genetic factors may also contribute to the risk in some cases.

Who Is at Risk of Asbestos Exposure and Related Illnesses?

While everyone exposed to asbestos carries some degree of risk, most individuals do not face significant concerns. However, those who have breathed contaminated air over an extended period are at a higher risk of developing illnesses. Individuals repeatedly exposed to asbestos for many years, such as miners, construction workers, shipbuilders, factory workers producing asbestos-containing materials, firefighters, autoworkers, and others, face the greatest risk. Members of the United States Navy who served on ships for decades were also exposed to asbestos. Additionally, rescue workers and individuals in the vicinity of the World Trade Center attacks were exposed to asbestos. Second-hand exposure is also a concern, as family members of workers may have been affected by fibers brought home on clothing. While regulations have reduced the risk in these professions, some residual risk remains. Even individuals who do not work directly with asbestos can be exposed, particularly in older homes where asbestos fibers may be present. Remodeling projects can lead to exposure, but professionals trained in asbestos abatement can safely remove or encapsulate asbestos in homes.

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.

Types of Asbestos

Types of Asbestos Causing Pleural Mesothelioma

All six types of asbestos minerals have common characteristics. All forms of the mineral are odorless and tasteless. When asbestos is present in a material or product, it cannot be detected by a visual examination and must be tested in a laboratory. These properties often make it difficult to determine specific risks of asbestos exposure. However, any exposure to the group of minerals can lead to mesothelioma and other diseases such as lung cancer or asbestosis.

It is important for individuals to know their risks, especially if they have a history of asbestos exposure. People who have had exposure should learn how to protect themselves through medical monitoring.

Types of Asbestos Causing Pleural Mesothelioma

All six types of asbestos minerals have common characteristics. All forms of the mineral are odorless and tasteless. When asbestos is present in a material or product, it cannot be detected by a visual examination and must be tested in a laboratory. These properties often make it difficult to determine specific risks of asbestos exposure. However, any exposure to the group of minerals can lead to mesothelioma and other diseases such as lung cancer or asbestosis.

It is important for individuals to know their risks, especially if they have a history of asbestos exposure. People who have had exposure should learn how to protect themselves through medical monitoring.

In addition to the properties shared by all asbestos minerals, each of the six types has its own distinct features. The types are separated into categories based on the physical appearance of individual asbestos fibers. Asbestos minerals are divided into two categories: Serpentine asbestos and amphibole asbestos.

Serpentine Asbestos

Serpentine asbestos refers to asbestos made up of long, curly fibers. This category only includes one mineral, called chrysotile, also known as white asbestos. It was the most commercially used form of asbestos. Its flexible nature easily allowed it to be used in products and combined with other elements.

Prior to widespread knowledge of pleural mesothelioma and its connection to asbestos, the mineral was hailed for its fireproof and heat-resistant qualities. It was used throughout the U.S. and all over the world, finding its way into products that still pose a hazard today.

Most Common Types of Asbestos Exposure

Amphibole Asbestos

Amphibole asbestos includes the other five asbestos minerals: Amosite, crocidolite (also called blue asbestos), tremolite, actinolite and anthophyllite. These minerals are composed of brittle, needle-shaped fibers. Because of these properties, amphibole fibers are more hazardous than chrysotile when inhaled or ingested. However, the same characteristics usually make it a bad candidate for use in commercial products.

Exposure to amphibole asbestos is mostly limited to exposure to naturally occurring deposits.

Asbestos exposure can cause a number of health problems. The most dangerous is pleural mesothelioma, also known as malignant pleural mesothelioma. This cancer is typically caused by one of three types of exposure to asbestos: Occupational exposure, secondary exposure or environmental exposure.

Occupational Asbestos Exposure

Occupational Asbestos Exposure refers to coming into contact with asbestos while on the job. Occupational exposure, the most common cause of pleural mesothelioma, generally happens with blue-collar jobs, and most examples came prior to the 1980s. At that time, federal laws began severely restricting the mineral’s use. Individuals were most likely to suffer from asbestos exposure if they worked in construction, shipyards, power plants or other hazardous work environments.

Asbestos exposure also occurred in every U.S. military branch, putting thousands of veterans at risk for developing mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Secondary Asbestos Exposure

Secondary asbestos exposure includes occurrences among family members of asbestos workers. Men who worked with asbestos brought fibers home on their dirty clothes each night. Then wives or other family members shook out the clothing to get rid of asbestos-laden dust, unknowingly exposing themselves and others to the deadly substance.

Environmental Asbestos Exposure

Environmental asbestos exposure is any indirect exposure, caused either by environmental pollution or by naturally occurring asbestos. Naturally occurring asbestos deposits have been found throughout the country, particularly in parts of California and Montana. In these areas, simple outdoor activities such as gardening or riding a bicycle may disturb asbestos fibers and release them into the air, where people may ingest or inhale them.

Similarly, environmental exposure may occur as a result of nearby asbestos manufacturing or mining. This can lead to air and soil pollution that leaves the surrounding area contaminated with asbestos.

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure

When airborne asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can become lodged in the soft tissues of the lungs or abdomen. The body has significant difficulty expelling the fibers, which can trigger more than a dozen health complications, including cancer.

It often takes decades, but asbestos fibers are proven to cause asbestosis, lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma. In total, these asbestos related illnesses account for approximately 10,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.

About 2,000 to 3,000 of these annual deaths — roughly one every 3.4 hours — are caused by mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of this cancer, which develops in the lining of the lungs. Although lung cancer has other contributing causes, pleural mesothelioma is almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos.

About 4% of all lung cancer cases in the U.S. are caused by asbestos exposure. Any type of lung cancer may be caused by asbestos exposure. There is a latency period of 15 to 35 years between exposure to asbestos and the development of lung cancer, while mesothelioma develops between 20 and 50 years after exposure.

Patients diagnosed with these diseases have legal options to pursue compensation to cover medical bills and lost wages. It is important to speak with an asbestos lawyer to learn about trust funds, personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death claims.

Long-Term Health Complications

While breathing asbestos is unlikely to cause any immediate harm, asbestosis and asbestos-related cancers often arise many years after the first exposure. This gap between exposure and the first appearance of symptoms, known as the latency period, can range between 10 and 50 years.

Because of the long latency period, people exposed to asbestos before 1980s government regulations may only now begin to notice pleural mesothelioma symptoms. The latency period also means that the peak in pleural mesothelioma cases won’t occur until decades after the peak in asbestos usage. For this reason, most projections estimate that the U.S. still has not experienced the highest annual rate of mesothelioma cases.

Most models estimate that the maximum number of annual pleural mesothelioma diagnoses will occur between 2015 and 2020. This estimate holds true for other areas of the world with a similar history of asbestos usage. For example, British researchers expect to see a national maximum in 2016 and Dutch researchers estimate a 2017 peak.

Asbestos Regulations

Asbestos use is not banned in the U.S., but it is strictly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other government entities. Asbestos can only be used in products that have historically contained the mineral. In other words, no “new uses” are permitted. Additionally, these products can be made with asbestos only if there is no adequate substitute.

This has led to a steep decrease in nationwide use. In 1973, domestic consumption of asbestos was 803,000 metric tons. Consumption in 2005 was a fraction of that, totaling only 2,400 metric tons. The small amount that is still used annually goes into products that require fireproof and heat resistant qualities. Products which may still be made with asbestos include protective clothing, pipe insulation, brake linings and similar materials.

Other products historically known to contain asbestos include:

Floor tiles

Ceiling tiles

Asbestos Cement

Wall panels

Boiler insulation

Electrical insulation

Spray-on fireproofing

Wallboard joint compound

Wall and attic insulation

Asbestos paper and millboard

Individuals who work around asbestos must be adequately protected. Employers are required to disclose the presence of asbestos to workers and provide proper protective gear, such as air-purifying respirators, before any work that may disturb asbestos.

Asbestos Abatement

When maintenance or demolition work disturbs asbestos materials or they fall apart over time, the safest way to repair or remove the threat is to hire a trained and accredited asbestos professional. In most cases, hiring an abatement expert is required by law.

The government regulates proper procedures for asbestos abatement, including notifying the appropriate state agency before asbestos work, preventing asbestos from becoming airborne and disposing of the hazardous material properly. Choosing to perform an asbestos project yourself without following these procedures can result in costly fines and jail time.

It is important for abatement workers to follow all safety precautions such as sealing off the work area and keeping asbestos-containing materials wet to help prevent asbestos dust from entering the air. Before hiring someone to complete asbestos work, check with the Better Business Bureau, your local air pollution control board or a local worker safety agency to confirm that the inspectors and contractors are properly licensed. Also look for a history of work-related safety violations or lawsuits.

Individuals who continue to work with asbestos must be adequately protected. Employers must advise workers of the presence of asbestos and must provide proper protective gear such as air-purifying respirators. Further laws regulate proper asbestos abatement procedures, outlining how to prevent asbestos from becoming airborne and how to properly dispose of the hazardous material. These instructions note safety precautions such as keeping asbestos-containing materials wet so asbestos dust does not enter the air.

Preventing Asbestos Exposure

If you think something in your home might contain asbestos, the EPA suggests you treat it as if it does and leave it alone. Asbestos-containing products in good condition generally pose no risk unless they are damaged. But once asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, asbestos fibers can enter the air and be inhaled or ingested.

Don’t begin a remodeling or demolition project until you are sure it won’t disturb asbestos. Unless a product is clearly labeled, there’s no way to tell if it contains asbestos just by looking at it. You may need to hire a professional inspector to collect samples. If a lab test confirms the presence of asbestos, proper abatement procedures should be followed to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

If you know there are asbestos materials in your home, be sure to check them regularly for any signs of wear or water damage. Avoid damaging materials that may contain asbestos, and limit children and others from accessing potentially dangerous areas.

During maintenance or renovation projects, avoid activities that may disturb concealed asbestos and cause harmful exposures, including cutting, sawing, sanding, drilling or scraping. If you find dust or debris that may contain asbestos, do not sweep it up or vacuum.

Current Exposure Risks

Despite federal and state regulations on asbestos use and abatement, asbestos exposure in the United States continues to be an issue. Minimizing environmental exposure continues to be a struggle in areas with high concentrations of naturally occurring asbestos, such as El Dorado Hills, California and Libby, Montana.

Household exposure is also still an issue because so many construction products contain asbestos. This is especially true of houses built prior to the 1980s, when asbestos use was more common. Household products that may contain asbestos include insulation, cement, drywall, ceiling tiles, floor tiles and other construction items. These items generally pose no risk unless they are damaged or cut.

Once an asbestos containing material is damaged, asbestos fibers can enter the air and can be inhaled or ingested. It is important to avoid remodeling or demolition projects until a professional inspector confirms the absence of asbestos. If asbestos is found, proper abatement procedures should be followed to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

Other types of exposure, namely from workplaces and environmental pollution, have declined thanks to the strict regulations in the past few decades. It is important to know if you’ve been exposed to asbestos or if you may be exposed to it in the future.

If you have been exposed to asbestos, get medical treatment as soon as possible. If pleural mesothelioma develops, early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

Serpentine asbestos refers to asbestos made up of long, curly fibers. This category only includes one mineral, called chrysotile, also known as white asbestos. It was the most commercially used form of asbestos. Its flexible nature easily allowed it to be used in products and combined with other elements.

Prior to widespread knowledge of pleural mesothelioma and its connection to asbestos, the mineral was hailed for its fireproof and heat-resistant qualities. It was used throughout the U.S. and all over the world, finding its way into products that still pose a hazard today.

Most Common Types of Asbestos Exposure

Amphibole Asbestos

Amphibole asbestos includes the other five asbestos minerals: Amosite, crocidolite (also called blue asbestos), tremolite, actinolite and anthophyllite. These minerals are composed of brittle, needle-shaped fibers. Because of these properties, amphibole fibers are more hazardous than chrysotile when inhaled or ingested. However, the same characteristics usually make it a bad candidate for use in commercial products.

Exposure to amphibole asbestos is mostly limited to exposure to naturally occurring deposits.

Asbestos exposure can cause a number of health problems. The most dangerous is pleural mesothelioma, also known as malignant pleural mesothelioma. This cancer is typically caused by one of three types of exposure to asbestos: Occupational exposure, secondary exposure or environmental exposure.

Occupational Asbestos Exposure

Occupational Asbestos Exposure refers to coming into contact with asbestos while on the job. Occupational exposure, the most common cause of pleural mesothelioma, generally happens with blue-collar jobs, and most examples came prior to the 1980s. At that time, federal laws began severely restricting the mineral’s use. Individuals were most likely to suffer from asbestos exposure if they worked in construction, shipyards, power plants or other hazardous work environments.

Asbestos exposure also occurred in every U.S. military branch, putting thousands of veterans at risk for developing mesothelioma or lung cancer.

Secondary Asbestos Exposure

Secondary asbestos exposure includes occurrences among family members of asbestos workers. Men who worked with asbestos brought fibers home on their dirty clothes each night. Then wives or other family members shook out the clothing to get rid of asbestos-laden dust, unknowingly exposing themselves and others to the deadly substance.

Environmental Asbestos Exposure

Environmental asbestos exposure is any indirect exposure, caused either by environmental pollution or by naturally occurring asbestos. Naturally occurring asbestos deposits have been found throughout the country, particularly in parts of California and Montana. In these areas, simple outdoor activities such as gardening or riding a bicycle may disturb asbestos fibers and release them into the air, where people may ingest or inhale them.

Similarly, environmental exposure may occur as a result of nearby asbestos manufacturing or mining. This can lead to air and soil pollution that leaves the surrounding area contaminated with asbestos.

Health Risks Associated with Asbestos Exposure

When airborne asbestos fibers are inhaled or swallowed, they can become lodged in the soft tissues of the lungs or abdomen. The body has significant difficulty expelling the fibers, which can trigger more than a dozen health complications, including cancer.

It often takes decades, but asbestos fibers are proven to cause asbestosis, lung cancer and pleural mesothelioma. In total, these asbestos related illnesses account for approximately 10,000 deaths in the U.S. each year.

About 2,000 to 3,000 of these annual deaths — roughly one every 3.4 hours — are caused by mesothelioma. Pleural mesothelioma is the most common form of this cancer, which develops in the lining of the lungs. Although lung cancer has other contributing causes, pleural mesothelioma is almost exclusively caused by exposure to asbestos.

About 4% of all lung cancer cases in the U.S. are caused by asbestos exposure. Any type of lung cancer may be caused by asbestos exposure. There is a latency period of 15 to 35 years between exposure to asbestos and the development of lung cancer, while mesothelioma develops between 20 and 50 years after exposure.

Patients diagnosed with these diseases have legal options to pursue compensation to cover medical bills and lost wages. It is important to speak with an asbestos lawyer to learn about trust funds, personal injury lawsuits and wrongful death claims.

Long-Term Health Complications

While breathing asbestos is unlikely to cause any immediate harm, asbestosis and asbestos-related cancers often arise many years after the first exposure. This gap between exposure and the first appearance of symptoms, known as the latency period, can range between 10 and 50 years.

Because of the long latency period, people exposed to asbestos before 1980s government regulations may only now begin to notice pleural mesothelioma symptoms. The latency period also means that the peak in pleural mesothelioma cases won’t occur until decades after the peak in asbestos usage. For this reason, most projections estimate that the U.S. still has not experienced the highest annual rate of mesothelioma cases.

Most models estimate that the maximum number of annual pleural mesothelioma diagnoses will occur between 2015 and 2020. This estimate holds true for other areas of the world with a similar history of asbestos usage. For example, British researchers expect to see a national maximum in 2016 and Dutch researchers estimate a 2017 peak.

Asbestos Regulations

Asbestos use is not banned in the U.S., but it is strictly regulated by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and other government entities. Asbestos can only be used in products that have historically contained the mineral. In other words, no “new uses” are permitted. Additionally, these products can be made with asbestos only if there is no adequate substitute.

This has led to a steep decrease in nationwide use. In 1973, domestic consumption of asbestos was 803,000 metric tons. Consumption in 2005 was a fraction of that, totaling only 2,400 metric tons. The small amount that is still used annually goes into products that require fireproof and heat resistant qualities. Products which may still be made with asbestos include protective clothing, pipe insulation, brake linings and similar materials.

Other products historically known to contain asbestos include:

Floor tiles

Ceiling tiles

Asbestos Cement

Wall panels

Boiler insulation

Electrical insulation

Spray-on fireproofing

Wallboard joint compound

Wall and attic insulation

Asbestos paper and millboard

Individuals who work around asbestos must be adequately protected. Employers are required to disclose the presence of asbestos to workers and provide proper protective gear, such as air-purifying respirators, before any work that may disturb asbestos.

Asbestos Abatement

When maintenance or demolition work disturbs asbestos materials or they fall apart over time, the safest way to repair or remove the threat is to hire a trained and accredited asbestos professional. In most cases, hiring an abatement expert is required by law.

The government regulates proper procedures for asbestos abatement, including notifying the appropriate state agency before asbestos work, preventing asbestos from becoming airborne and disposing of the hazardous material properly. Choosing to perform an asbestos project yourself without following these procedures can result in costly fines and jail time.

It is important for abatement workers to follow all safety precautions such as sealing off the work area and keeping asbestos-containing materials wet to help prevent asbestos dust from entering the air. Before hiring someone to complete asbestos work, check with the Better Business Bureau, your local air pollution control board or a local worker safety agency to confirm that the inspectors and contractors are properly licensed. Also look for a history of work-related safety violations or lawsuits.

Individuals who continue to work with asbestos must be adequately protected. Employers must advise workers of the presence of asbestos and must provide proper protective gear such as air-purifying respirators. Further laws regulate proper asbestos abatement procedures, outlining how to prevent asbestos from becoming airborne and how to properly dispose of the hazardous material. These instructions note safety precautions such as keeping asbestos-containing materials wet so asbestos dust does not enter the air.

Preventing Asbestos Exposure

If you think something in your home might contain asbestos, the EPA suggests you treat it as if it does and leave it alone. Asbestos-containing products in good condition generally pose no risk unless they are damaged. But once asbestos-containing materials are disturbed, asbestos fibers can enter the air and be inhaled or ingested.

Don’t begin a remodeling or demolition project until you are sure it won’t disturb asbestos. Unless a product is clearly labeled, there’s no way to tell if it contains asbestos just by looking at it. You may need to hire a professional inspector to collect samples. If a lab test confirms the presence of asbestos, proper abatement procedures should be followed to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

If you know there are asbestos materials in your home, be sure to check them regularly for any signs of wear or water damage. Avoid damaging materials that may contain asbestos, and limit children and others from accessing potentially dangerous areas.

During maintenance or renovation projects, avoid activities that may disturb concealed asbestos and cause harmful exposures, including cutting, sawing, sanding, drilling or scraping. If you find dust or debris that may contain asbestos, do not sweep it up or vacuum.

Current Exposure Risks

Despite federal and state regulations on asbestos use and abatement, asbestos exposure in the United States continues to be an issue. Minimizing environmental exposure continues to be a struggle in areas with high concentrations of naturally occurring asbestos, such as El Dorado Hills, California and Libby, Montana.

Household exposure is also still an issue because so many construction products contain asbestos. This is especially true of houses built prior to the 1980s, when asbestos use was more common. Household products that may contain asbestos include insulation, cement, drywall, ceiling tiles, floor tiles and other construction items. These items generally pose no risk unless they are damaged or cut.

Once an asbestos containing material is damaged, asbestos fibers can enter the air and can be inhaled or ingested. It is important to avoid remodeling or demolition projects until a professional inspector confirms the absence of asbestos. If asbestos is found, proper abatement procedures should be followed to ensure the safety of everyone in the area.

Other types of exposure, namely from workplaces and environmental pollution, have declined thanks to the strict regulations in the past few decades. It is important to know if you’ve been exposed to asbestos or if you may be exposed to it in the future.

If you have been exposed to asbestos, get medical treatment as soon as possible. If pleural mesothelioma develops, early detection is crucial for effective treatment.

What is Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma, a malignant cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, affects thousands of people in the United States each year. The majority of cases are pleural mesothelioma, which forms in the lining of the chest cavity, while peritoneal mesothelioma forms in the lining of the abdominal cavity. Due to the long latency period of 10-50 years, most patients are diagnosed in their late 60s, with men who were exposed to asbestos on the job being the most affected.

To improve prognosis, doctors recommend a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. However, emerging treatments and clinical trials show promise for new options. Early-stage diagnosis offers the best chance of survival, but clinical trials may benefit late-stage patients. Factors such as the type of mesothelioma, treatment, and cell type can impact life expectancy and overall health.

Mesothelioma is primarily caused by inhaling asbestos fibers, which become lodged in the lungs or chest cavity and cause cellular damage over time. High-risk jobs, asbestos mines or processing plants, and exposure through renovation or living with someone who works with asbestos products are common risk factors. Military veterans, especially those who served on Navy ships, are also at risk.

There are four types of mesothelioma based on where the cancer forms in the body: pleural, peritoneal, pericardial, and testicular. Each type presents different symptoms, such as dry cough and chest pain for pleural mesothelioma, and weight loss and abdominal swelling for peritoneal mesothelioma.

Diagnosing mesothelioma involves imaging scans to locate tumors and biopsies to confirm the cancer cells. Blood tests may be used, but only a biopsy can provide a definitive diagnosis. The three main cell types of mesothelioma are epithelioid, sarcomatoid, and biphasic, each with varying prognosis and response to treatment.

Staging mesothelioma helps determine the best treatment options. Early-stage patients have localized tumors, while late-stage patients have tumors that have spread to nearby organs or distant lymph nodes. Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, multimodal treatment, and clinical trials are the primary treatment options available.

Specialized mesothelioma doctors and cancer centers, such as Dr. Robert Cameron and Dr. Abraham Lebenthal, provide expertise and access to the latest treatments and clinical trials. While the prognosis for mesothelioma is generally poor, lifestyle changes, a balanced diet, and finding the right doctor can improve life expectancy. Complementary therapies and support groups can also enhance overall well-being.

Mesothelioma has physical, mental, and social effects on patients. As the cancer progresses, physical symptoms such as pain and difficulty breathing worsen. Chemotherapy can affect cognitive function, and patients may experience feelings of isolation due to the rarity of the cancer. Joining support groups, talking with loved ones, and seeking counseling can help address these challenges.

Resources are available to assist patients and their families, including mesothelioma packets with comprehensive information, doctor matching services, online support groups, and financial assistance options. Patient advocates are available 24/7 to provide guidance and support throughout the journey.

SEO Tips

If you're using WordPress, I highly recommend installing either the All In One SEO Pack or SEO Yoast plugins. Both are free and work great for boosting your SEO content. While they have different features, they both streamline the on-site SEO process by generating automatic META tags, optimizing titles for each post, and optimizing SEO descriptions. They are user-friendly and easy to learn. By using these plugins, you can give your content a better look than other bloggers who don't take advantage of this opportunity.

Using SEO plugins can help your site appear on the first or second search results page, rather than being buried further down. Additionally, utilizing the Google Adwords Keyword Tool can assist with keyword research. It provides a list of potential keyword ideas that you can incorporate into your blog posts or titles. It's important to choose good potential keywords and use them wisely in your content. Avoid using keywords excessively or too sparingly. Instead, use them enough to make them stand out.

In the past, it was common to excessively use keywords in content to manipulate search engines. However, Google has updated its algorithms, making this trick more difficult to pull off. If Google detects that your content has an excessive amount of the same keyword, you may be notified that you're violating content policies. To insert keywords effectively, place your main keyword in the post's main title, use it within the first 100 words, include it in the final paragraph, and use it in title tags, meta descriptions, and subheadings when appropriate. Additionally, incorporate related keywords or phrases throughout the content.

To improve your site's ranking, it's crucial to ensure it loads quickly. Google places emphasis on site load times, and most users will leave if a site takes more than 5 seconds to load. You can use Pingdom's speed test tool to determine your site's load time. If it exceeds 5 seconds, consider switching to a new hosting provider or making changes to optimize your site's speed.

When it comes to content length, there can be variations depending on the keyword. Research shows that the number of words in a post should align with the keyword it's based on. For example, posts about "Gadgets" should have around 183 words, while posts about "Personal Development" should have around 1,475 words. However, it's generally recommended to keep posts at least 250 words or more. If your posts are too short, search engines may not prioritize your site compared to others with longer content.

It's important to diversify the length of your posts and avoid sticking to a specific word count for every post. This ensures that your content remains engaging and varied for readers. Including relevant images or pictures in your posts can also enhance the user experience and provide visual breaks. Remember to include keywords in the image or picture and use ALT tags in the HTML code.

While it's tempting to include links to other pages or sites, it's best to minimize them as they can lead users away from your site. Once users leave, there's no guarantee they'll return. Additionally, consider setting up your site with different widgets on the sidebar to improve navigation and provide quick access to different categories, recent posts, about me, and subscription options.

Consistently posting fresh content is crucial for maintaining and growing your site. Neglecting to update your site with new content can result in losing subscribers and decreasing user interest. It can also negatively impact your site's ranking in search engines. Updating your content frequently encourages search engine crawlers to visit your site more often, potentially leading to faster indexing. Aim to post between 2 to 5 times a week, depending on the quality of your content and your niche.

Sharing your posts on social media platforms like Facebook can provide an advantage if your content is well-received. When your friends like and share your posts, it exposes them to a wider audience, potentially improving your rankings in search engines and attracting more readers.

There has been much discussion about Google's SearchWiki and its impact on SEO. While some bloggers believe it will ruin SEO, it's important to understand Google's intentions. SearchWiki allows users to edit the search results they see on the search engine results page. This feature can be beneficial for sites that receive positive user feedback, as they can move up in the rankings. However, it also means that if users prefer a competitor's site over yours, it can negatively affect your ranking. To mitigate this, focus on creating high-quality, user-friendly content that encourages users to stay on your site and engage with it.

In conclusion, take advantage of SEO plugins, optimize your site's load time, use keywords strategically, vary your content length, include relevant images, minimize external links, update your site frequently, share your posts on social media, and stay informed about changes in search engine algorithms. By implementing these strategies, you can improve your site's SEO and attract more readers.

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Mesothelioma Diagnosis

Determining the type of mesothelioma involves analyzing the cells involved. Pathologists play a crucial role in reaching a diagnosis by studying the affected cells. They use a process called immunohistochemistry to identify cells based on the proteins they contain. This process includes staining the tissue sample with a substance that changes color when a specific protein is present. By acting as a dye, this substance makes it easier to detect and differentiate the proteins within the cells under a microscope. To obtain a tissue sample, your oncologist will need to perform a biopsy.

Mesothelioma Treatment

At UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, our dedicated care team collaborates closely to develop a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific type and stage of lung cancer. Treatment options for mesothelioma may include surgery, chemotherapy or other medical oncology therapies, radiation oncology, and participation in clinical trials when appropriate.

Mesothelioma Types, Risks, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Mesothelioma is a rare form of lung cancer, affecting fewer than 20,000 individuals annually in the United States. It originates in the cells lining the heart, lungs, and abdomen. Pleural mesothelioma develops in the lining of the lungs, while peritoneal mesothelioma begins in the lining of the abdomen. This aggressive and challenging-to-treat cancer requires a comprehensive approach, which is precisely what the Mesothelioma Specialty Care Center at UPMC Hillman Cancer Center provides. Our center brings together experts in thoracic surgical oncology, pulmonology, pathology, radiology, pain management, and medical and radiation oncology.

Types of Mesothelioma

There are three primary types of mesothelioma categorized by the cells of origin:

1. Epithelioid mesothelioma, accounting for approximately 70% of cases, is the most treatable type. It typically arises when healthy epithelioid cells are exposed to asbestos. This form of lung cancer develops rapidly due to the quick division of epithelial cells. However, the tendency of these cells to stick together makes this type of mesothelioma less likely to spread. Symptoms may include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and fluid accumulation in the lungs.

2. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma is a rare form, representing only 10 to 15% of cases. It is the most challenging to treat and more prone to spreading. Symptoms may include breathing difficulties, fatigue, and weight loss.

3. Mixed mesothelioma is a combination of epithelioid and sarcomatoid mesothelioma, involving both types of cells. Prognosis depends on the percentages of each cell type. Cases with a higher proportion of epithelioid cells tend to grow more rapidly but spread slower. Conversely, cases with more sarcomatoid cells spread more quickly. Symptoms may include chest pain, breathing problems, and fluid accumulation in the lungs.

Mesothelioma Risk Factors

Several factors may increase the risk of developing mesothelioma, including age (with adults aged 45 and older being at the highest risk) and asbestos exposure. Asbestos, once commonly used in construction and chemical industries, can significantly elevate the risk of lung cancer. Studies indicate that asbestos workers have a lifetime risk of developing mesothelioma as high as 10%.

Surgical Oncology for Mesothelioma

UPMC Hillman Cancer Center surgeons are at the forefront of pioneering treatments to improve quality of life and extend survival for mesothelioma patients. One such treatment involves chemoperfusion, which combines pleurectomy with the direct application of concentrated heated chemotherapy into the tumor. For pleural mesothelioma, pleurectomy surgery involves removing part of the pleura, while pneumonectomy may be necessary to remove all or part of the lung. For peritoneal mesothelioma, chemoperfusion directs concentrated heated chemotherapy into the affected area, and peritonectomy surgery removes the cancerous part of the abdominal lining. Resection surgery aims to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

Radiation Therapy for Mesothelioma

Radiation therapy may be recommended as an additional treatment option after surgery or as the primary treatment for those who are not surgical candidates. Our radiation oncologists possess extensive expertise in utilizing advanced approaches, such as intensity-modulated radiation therapy and 4D computed tomography, to effectively treat mesothelioma.

Chemotherapy for Mesothelioma

Our medical oncologists specializing in mesothelioma offer a comprehensive range of chemotherapy and biologic therapies. Additionally, patients have access to clinical trials through UPMC Hillman Cancer Center, the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center in western Pennsylvania.

Mesothelioma Treatment at Mount Sinai

Malignant pleural mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that affects the lining of the lungs and chest wall. Approximately 3,000 new cases of mesothelioma are diagnosed each year, with the primary risk factor being exposure to Asbestos. Asbestos has historically been used for insulation in homes and buildings, putting construction workers, pipe fitters, and shipyard workers at the highest risk due to their long-term exposure. The development of mesothelioma can take several decades after exposure to Asbestos, making it difficult to detect early on. Symptoms such as coughing and shortness of breath may be subtle, and many individuals may not experience any symptoms at all. As the disease progresses, it causes a restrictive pattern in the affected area of the chest.

To provide the least invasive and personalized treatment plans, a team of specialists led by Dr. Raja M. Flores, Chairman of the Department of Thoracic Surgery, reviews each case at Mount Sinai. This team consists of thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, pulmonologists, radiologists, and pathologists. The best outcomes are achieved through a multi-modality approach, combining surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. At Mount Sinai, treatment plans are tailored to each patient, taking into account their individual needs and optimizing their quality of life. Dr. Flores, a renowned expert in mesothelioma treatment with over 15 years of experience, advocates for lung-sparing techniques whenever possible during surgery. The coordination of care between different specialties is seamless, as all aspects of treatment are centralized in one location.

Mount Sinai is also actively involved in mesothelioma research. Dr. Flores and his team have conducted extensive studies comparing different surgical approaches, such as extra pleural pneumonectomy and pleurectomy or decortication. Additionally, they participate in various research studies, ranging from molecular research to treatment protocols and clinical trials. Mount Sinai is a member of national consortiums that utilize tissue specimens to gain a better understanding of the disease and improve treatment options for their patients.