Asbestos

 Context

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) of the USA has announced a comprehensive ban on asbestos, a deadly carcinogen still present in some products despite previous partial bans.

Asbestos

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral that was once widely used in a variety of products due to its heat resistance, fireproofing, and strength. However, it is now known to be a serious health hazard. 

Concerns

• Asbestos fibers are very small and can become airborne when disturbed. If inhaled, these fibers can lodge themselves in the lungs, where they can cause serious health problems, including:
  • Mesothelioma: A cancer of the lining of the lungs, chest, abdomen, or heart.
  • Asbestosis: A lung disease that causes scarring of the lung tissue.
  • Lung cancer
• The risk of developing these diseases increases with the amount of asbestos exposure.
• People who worked in industries that used asbestos, such as construction, shipbuilding, and automotive repair, are at highest risk.
• However, even people who have had limited exposure to asbestos can develop health problems.
• There is no cure for mesothelioma or asbestosis.
• Treatment for these diseases focuses on relieving symptoms and improving quality of life.

Asbestos is now banned in many countries, including the United States. However, there is still a risk of exposure from older buildings that contain asbestos.