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Article Index Air Quality How-To Air Quality Reference Air Purifier Information Did You Know? An estimated 81 million Americans live, work and play in areas known to have short-term levels of unhealthy particulate pollution, while 66 million live in areas with chronic unhealthy levels.
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Asbestos and MesotheliomaAlex Manning, Clean Air Advice
Studies have been conducted on people who were commonly exposed to areas with poor indoor air quality due to high airborne concentrations of asbestos. Breathing high levels of asbestos fibers increases the risk of developing lung cancer, mesothelioma—a cancer of the lining of the chest and abdominal cavity, and asbestosis—scarring of the lungs. The risks of these diseases are directly correlated to the number of asbestos fibers inhaled. This risk is also increased if you smoke. Most cases of asbestos related cancer are linked to long-term high intensity exposure, although occasional cases have been documented with exposures as short as a few months. Symptoms of the diseases usually do not appear until 20 to 30 years after initial exposure.  "Breathing high levels of asbestos fibers increases the risk of developing lung cancer, mesothelioma—a cancer of the lining of the chest and abdominal cavity, and asbestosis—scarring of the lungs."
Asbestos is only dangerous when its fibers can break off and become airborne. Asbestos is relatively safe when combined with other materials, especially those with strong bonding agents. Fibers that become loose and airborne are usually those contained in either soft or brittle materials. The majority of products today are not made with asbestos, and any that are, are required to be labeled accordingly. Up until the 1970's however, many building materials were made with asbestos. In older buildings and homes there are several common products that may contain asbestos. Steam pipe, boiler and furnace duct insulation; floor tiles, and the adhesives used for installation; insulation around furnaces and stoves; door gaskets in furnaces and stoves; soundproofing material; roof shingles; as well as car brake pads are all commonly found to be made of or contain asbestos. In most cases if these materials are in good condition and left alone there is little to no danger. To ensure safety, however, you may want to have the materials inspected, repaired or removed.
Repairing asbestos materials usually involves either coating or sealing the material in order to seal in the asbestos. This method is only appropriate for undamaged materials. If the material is in disrepair another material can be placed to completely cover the asbestos area, preventing the release of fibers. Removing asbestos is a hazardous and expensive process. Unnecessary removal is not recommended. However, some situations may require asbestos removal such as remodeling, major structural changes, or if the asbestos material is badly damaged beyond repair. A licensed contractor should only do asbestos removal, as improper removal may increase health risks to those exposed. Related Articles |
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Asbestos is the general name given to several different types of natural fibers; these fibers can only be positively identified with a special microscope. Asbestos has been commonly used in building materials in order to strengthen them and provide heat insulation and fire resistance.
If you suspect you have asbestos in your home it is best to leave it alone and let a professional handle any problems. A trained professional can conduct visual inspections of materials, take samples of materials to be tested, and make qualified assessments of what needs to be done in order to protect the indoor air quality in your home.