Could you be exposed to a hidden danger without knowing it? I’m talking about asbestos — a toxic mineral that has killed thousands over the years and still causes harm today. Health problems from asbestos often take many years to appear, so exposure can go unnoticed for a long time.
Although asbestos is now tightly regulated, many workers were unknowingly exposed in the past, breathing in dangerous dust on the job. That exposure led to several serious conditions, including a rare cancer called mesothelioma.
What is mesothelioma? It’s a cancer that affects the thin lining around internal organs, most often the lungs and chest wall. Knowing what mesothelioma is matters if you think you might have been exposed to asbestos and want to understand the risks.
The problem is that asbestos-containing materials still exist in many places — they haven’t disappeared. To protect yourself, learn more about asbestos and how to reduce your risk. I’m not an expert, so I consulted specialists at the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance, who answered common questions about asbestos:
What is asbestos?
Asbestos is a natural mineral fiber found underground. It was widely used in construction because it’s strong and resistant to fire and chemicals.
Where is asbestos found?
In the UK, asbestos may be present in any building—commercial or residential—that was built or refurbished before 2000.
How dangerous is asbestos?
Asbestos causes around 5,000 deaths each year. Historically, about 20 tradespeople died each week from past exposure.
When is asbestos dangerous?
Asbestos is dangerous when it becomes friable — that is, it crumbles easily or is disturbed and releases fibers into the air. When those fibers are inhaled, they can lodge in lung tissue and lead to serious illness.
How much asbestos exposure is harmful?
Any exposure can be harmful. If you think you’ve been exposed to asbestos, it’s important to see your doctor for an assessment.
How does asbestos affect your health?
Asbestos exposure can cause several conditions, including shortness of breath from pleural thickening or fluid, asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma.
What is mesothelioma?
Mesothelioma is a rare cancer caused by asbestos exposure that affects the lining of the lungs, heart, or abdomen. It can take 10 to 40 years to develop and is often found in later stages.
How can you identify asbestos?
Start by checking when the building was constructed and whether materials used at that time commonly contained asbestos. If you own the building, hire a licensed professional to inspect it and advise whether removal is needed. If you don’t own the property, raise your concerns with management.
How do you remove asbestos safely?
Always use a licensed, experienced asbestos removal contractor. They have the training and equipment to remove it safely and prevent exposure to others.
Can you test for asbestos exposure?
There are DIY tests, but their results are often unreliable. It’s best to use a certified professional for testing and any necessary removal.
Important to keep in mind
Asbestos was used for many years despite growing evidence it made people sick. It still exists in homes and workplaces, so people can remain at risk. Asbestos exposure can lead to serious illness or cancer, with symptoms that may not show up for decades. If you believe you’ve been exposed, seek medical advice to evaluate any potential damage.
Click here for more information about asbestos-related diseases, including mesothelioma.