Exposure to Airborne Asbestos

Exposure to asbestos is a growing concern, mostly because of previous exposure that occurred in the 20th century. We are currently experiencing the aftermath of 20th century asbestos use because of the latent nature of asbestos-related diseases. Researchers from the Environmental Working Group (EWG) found that, from 1990 to 1998, the annual increase of asbestosis was 4.4 percent and that mesothelioma increased 3.5 percent.

Because asbestos exposure peaked during the 1970s and the latency period for many asbestos-related diseases is 20 to 50 years, EWG estimates that the death rate for asbestos-related disease will crest at some point between 1998 and 2018.

Effects of inhaling asbestos

Breathing in asbestos fibers can lead to pleural plaque, pleural thickening, asbestosis, and mesothelioma. But how at risk are you for these effects?

People with relatively low exposure have been known to develop serious conditions like lung cancer or mesothelioma.

Exposure usually occurs when asbestos breaks down, forms dust, and releases asbestos fibers into the air.

Workplace exposure

Certain industries used asbestos extensively, and many workers in those industries unwittingly breathed in asbestos fibers. Industries involved in prevalent use of asbestos included:

Other sources of asbestos exposure

Asbestos exposures also occurred in the home and at school, which were often constructed with building materials that contained asbestos, such as cement, siding, roofing, floors, wall insulation, plumbing, electrical wire insulation, and at one time even chalkboards. Second-hand exposure to asbestos commonly occurred when workers brought the fibers home on their work clothes.

Be proactive about asbestos exposure

Anyone exposed to asbestos should contact a mesothelioma doctor and get frequent medical checkups. Also, take proactive measures if side effects arise, especially upon developing any symptoms of any asbestos-related diseases.