What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a fibrous silicate mineral widely used for its chemical inertness and heat-resistant properties. There are three major types of asbestos including: Chrysotile, Amosite, and Crocidolite. Chrysotile makes up approximately 90%-95% of all asbestos contained in buildings in the United States . Amoisite, also known as "brown asbestos, " is the second most common type of asbestos found in building materials. Crocidolite, also known as "blue asbestos," is found in specialized high temperature applications.

What are the health risks associated with exposure to asbestos?

There are numerous health risks associated with overexposure to asbestos, mainly the risk of developing certain types of cancers. These include: Asbestosis (a chronic lung ailment) lung cancer, Mesothelioma (a rare cancer of the thin membranes that line the chest and abdomen), and cancer of the gastrointestinal tract, kidneys, larynx, and oropharynx (the oral part of the pharynx).

How is asbestos used?

Prior to 1989, asbestos was frequently used in building construction materials for insulation and as a fire-retardant.

Where can asbestos be found?

Asbestos can be found in older homes and buildings, in schools, at construction sites, warehouses, laboratories, ships, and even automobiles.

Who is at risk?

Unfortunately, most people, at one time or another, have been exposed to asbestos or will be exposed to asbestos. However, some people are at greater risk than others of contracting asbestos related conditions. High-risk groups include: demolition workers, drywall removers, and firefighters, as well as individuals living in older homes that are in poor condition -- meaning they are deteriorating. It is also believed that individuals in constant contact with family members who have been exposed to asbestos are at risk as well.

Who needs to be examined?

Anyone who suspects that they may have been exposed to asbestos and those who have some or all of the symptoms listed below.

What are the symptoms of asbestos exposure?

Symptoms of asbestos exposure include: bloody or rust-colored phlegm, chest pain, hoarseness, persistent cough, chest pain, weight loss, back pain, shortness of breath, weakness, nausea, fever, loss of appetite, swelling of the face and arms, muscle weakness, sensory loss, and pleural effusions (abnormal accumulation of fluid between the lungs and chest wall). It is important to note that these symptoms are also common to other diseases.

What are some of the treatments for asbestos-related conditions?

Treatments options for asbestos-related conditions include: chemotherapy, photodynamic therapy, radiation, and surgery.