Table of Contents
What are three health disorders linked to asbestos exposure?
Exposure to asbestos can increase the risk of developing:
- Lung cancer.
- Asbestosis, which causes permanent lung damage.
- Mesothelioma, a rare cancer of the chest and stomach lining.
- Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract, kidney and throat (larynx or oropharynx).
- Scarring of the lung lining.
What are signs of asbestos exposure?
Asbestosis signs and symptoms may include:
- Shortness of breath.
- A persistent, dry cough.
- Loss of appetite with weight loss.
- Fingertips and toes that appear wider and rounder than normal (clubbing)
- Chest tightness or pain.
Which types of asbestos can cause fatal diseases?
Asbestos can cause the following fatal and serious diseases:
- Mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is a cancer which affects the lining of the lungs (pleura) and the lining surrounding the lower digestive tract (peritoneum).
- Asbestos-related lung cancer.
- Asbestosis.
- Pleural thickening.
Is it safe to remove asbestos myself?
It is strongly recommended by the EPA that individuals do not undertake asbestos removal themselves. Both the EPA website and an independent information source, Asbestos.net, contain lists of federal- and state-licensed asbestos removal companies and labs 1.
How dangerous is asbestos in your home?
Technically, asbestos that is undisturbed and in good condition is not dangerous. As asbestos products age and wear, fibers can become airborne and cause exposure. Homeowners should call certified asbestos professionals to safely remove the toxin. There are strict laws in place for how asbestos can be handled and removed.
What are the risks of short-term exposure to asbestos?
An extremely intense short-term exposure also heightens the risk of disease later in life. For example, a history of working with insulation products in the 1950s or 1960s is a major risk factor. Even if the work involved only a little exposure at a time, a few months of this would add up to a lot of inhaled asbestos dust.
How long does it take to get sick from asbestos exposure?
However, most asbestos-related diseases arise only after many years of regular exposure. An extremely intense short-term exposure also heightens the risk of disease later in life. For example, a history of working with insulation products in the 1950s or 1960s is a major risk factor.