Asbestos is the name given to six naturally occurring
fibrous minerals. Chrysotile and amosite are the most common types of asbestos;
the other types are crocidolite, tremolite, anthophyllite and atinolite.
Asbestos is recognized for its insulation properties, tensile strength and resistance
to heat and chemical damage.
Known for its distinctive properties and versatility,
asbestos was used in everything from home and commercial construction, to fire-resistant
clothing, to automobiles. In fact, asbestos is so versatile that it was once
largely used throughout all branches of the military.
Health Effects of
Asbestos Exposure
The most extensive use of asbestos occurred between the
1930s and the 1970s, even after its hazardous effects were known. In the
mid-20th century, researchers officially linked asbestos exposure to severe
respiratory diseases and cancers, including peritoneal malignant mesothelioma
cancer, lung cancer, asbestosis and other asbestos-related illnesses.
When asbestos fibers become damaged or worn over time, they
become airborne and are easily inhaled or ingested. Once inside the body, the fibers
become lodged in the tissues. Persistent exposure can lead to accumulated fibers
in the body and may cause inflammation and scarring that may lead to the
development of asbestos-related conditions decades later.
Mesothelioma cancer is the most prominent illness caused by asbestos exposure. It is a rare
type of cancer almost exclusively caused by asbestos exposure. It affects the
membrane surrounding the lungs, heart or abdominal cavity.
About Mesothelioma
Early symptoms of mesothelioma, such as fatigue and slight
pain around the tumor area, are very subtle and are hardly noticeable. More obvious symptoms, such as shortness of
breath, chronic pain around the tumor area, weight loss and bowel destruction, may
not present themselves until it’s too late.
The life expectancy
for mesothelioma patients is typically one year after diagnosis; however, a
patient’s prognosis varies depending on the type of mesothelioma, the stage of
the cancer, the size and location of the tumor and other factors.
While the prognosis for mesothelioma is typically poor,
there are treatment options available, including tradition treatments such as
surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Emerging and experimental treatments, such
as immunotherapy, gene
therapy and photodynamic therapy, may also be available.
About Asbestosis
Asbestosis is the most common non-cancerous illness caused
by asbestos exposure. Asbestosis is a chronic disease in which the tissue of
the lungs undergoes slow and repetitive fibrosis (scarring).
Asbestosis also has a long latency period and is typically
diagnosed decades after initial exposure. Obvious symptoms include decreased
tolerance for physical exertion and shortness of breath.
Although the use of asbestos has decreased dramatically
because of public awareness and governmental mandate, any exposure to asbestos
can be harmful to your health. Talk to your doctor if you have been exposed to
asbestos.
Kaitlyn Teabo is a
writer for The Mesothelioma Center. She combines her interests in writing,
cancer research and emerging scientific technology to educate the mesothelioma
community about asbestos and its related diseases.
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