Exposure to Asbestos
Asbestos exposure is the only known cause for malignant mesothelioma and asbestosis. Asbestos has been mined, processed and used to manufacture goods for over 6000 years. However, the more recent heavy use of asbestos has caused laborers to become exposed to it in such quantities that asbestos exposure has become a deadly curse.
Thousands of individuals have experienced asbestosis and mesothelioma symptoms since the 1930s, and medical specialists expect this epidemic to continue over the next 20 years. The gap between initial asbestos exposure and the onset of these deadly diseases is typically 30 to 40 years and has been as long as 60 years. Doctors have been unable to locate an effective treatment for mesothelioma, so unfortunately the disease is 100% fatal and typically leads to death within two years of diagnosis.
Inhalation of Asbestos
Inhalation of asbestos dust poses the highest risk to asbestos exposure. The asbestos fibers are so tiny that they are able to bypass the natural filtration system of the lungs. Once inside the most sensitive areas of the lungs, these fibers become embedded in the lung tissue. The durability and tensile strength of these fibers are why asbestos was so widely used as a fire retardant and as a construction component. However, these same characteristics allow asbestos fibers to stay embedded in lung tissue for a long time without being destroyed by the body's natural defense mechanisms. When malignant mesothelioma erupts in the lung tissue, it is called pleural mesothelioma. Asbestosis also occurs due to the embedding of asbestos fibers in the lungs.
Asbestos Removal
The use of asbestos has mainly been stopped, and the potential for exposure to asbestos has decreased dramatically. However, a number of older buildings still have insulation and floor/ceiling tiles that contain the mineral. Great care should be taken to limit exposure to asbestos during demolition work in older buildings. Respirators should be used to filter the air, and the demolition areas should be sealed so that asbestos dust is not released from the demolition area. OSHA has established strist guidelines to protect construction workers involved in the demolition of buildings containing asbestos.
It is also common for floor tile in older homes to contain asbestos. When remodeling, it is recommended that the asbestos floor coverings not be disturbed and that the new floor coverings be placed on top of the older ones. For homeowners, several web sites provide information describing safe removal procedures in order to limit asbestos exposure.
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