Have you ever wondered about the impact of asbestos exposure on human health? Asbestos, once a popular building material, is now infamous for its health risks. This blog delves into the world of asbestos related diseases, providing insight into how exposure to this hazardous material can affect health and well-being.
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Table of Contents
What is Asbestos and Its Use in History?
Asbestos is a group of naturally occurring fibrous minerals widely used in the past due to their resistance to heat, electricity, and chemical damage. Historically, asbestos was used in various industries for insulation, roofing, fireproofing, and even textiles. However, its usage dramatically declined when its health hazards became apparent. The unique properties that made asbestos valuable in construction and manufacturing also made it extremely dangerous. When airborne and inhaled, microscopic asbestos fibers can lead to serious health problems, leading to its ban in many countries.
Understanding How Asbestos Causes Diseases
The primary risk of asbestos comes from its tiny fibers, which, when inhaled, can settle in the lungs and remain there for years. Over time, these fibers can cause inflammation and scarring, eventually leading to serious health problems. Asbestos exposure is most dangerous when materials containing asbestos are disturbed, releasing fibers into the air. This can happen during renovation, demolition, or in industries that use asbestos-containing materials. The body’s inability to expel these fibers easily leads to a buildup, causing tissue damage and increasing the risk of cancer.
Common Asbestos-related Diseases
The most common diseases related to asbestos exposure include asbestosis, lung cancer, and mesothelioma. Asbestosis is a chronic lung disease causing scarring of lung tissue, while mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer that primarily affects the lining of the lungs or abdomen. Lung cancer can also develop, either due to asbestos exposure alone or compounded by smoking. These diseases are particularly insidious because they may not manifest until many years after the initial asbestos exposure, often making diagnosis and treatment challenging.
Symptoms to Watch Out For
Symptoms of asbestos-related diseases usually take a long time to develop, often several decades after exposure. Common signs include shortness of breath, a persistent cough, chest tightness or pain, and weight loss and fatigue in more severe cases. Early detection is crucial for the treatment and management of these conditions. Unfortunately, due to the latency period, diagnosis often occurs at an advanced stage. Regular medical check-ups and monitoring for symptoms are recommended for those known to have been exposed to asbestos.
Occupational Exposure and Risk Groups
Occupational exposure remains the most common cause of asbestos-related diseases. Individuals working in the construction, shipbuilding, and manufacturing industries are at higher risk. However, even family members of these workers can be at risk due to asbestos fibers brought home on clothing. It’s important for workers and employers in high-risk industries to be aware of the dangers of asbestos and to take appropriate safety measures to minimize exposure.
Particularly, ELSM says, “From the 1930s through the 1970s, asbestos was frequently used in military vehicles, aircraft and ships. People who served in the Navy, worked in Naval shipyards or worked on military vehicles and aircraft during this time are most at risk for developing asbestos-related diseases.”
Prevention and Safety Measures
Preventing asbestos exposure is key to reducing the risk of related diseases. This includes following workplace safety guidelines, using appropriate protective equipment, and ensuring proper handling and disposal of asbestos materials. It’s also important for buildings containing asbestos to be regularly inspected and managed by professionals. Public awareness campaigns and worker training can also play a vital role in preventing exposure and safeguarding health.
Asbestos-related diseases pose a significant health risk, particularly for those with occupational exposure. Understanding the dangers, recognising the symptoms, and taking preventive measures are essential in addressing this ongoing health issue. While asbestos has decreased significantly, its long-lasting impact continues to affect many, highlighting the importance of awareness and caution in handling this material.
